What Makes a Little Child Decide to Become a Psychiatrist?

In these crazy-making times, more people than ever think about seeking help, but some hesitate because of stigma. Today's guest, Edward M. Hallowell, M.D., a renowned psychiatrist, takes us on an unflinchingly candid tour behind the scenes with his new book, Because I Come From a Crazy Family: The Making of a Psychiatrist. As a boy, he heard the call to become a psychiatrist. His childhood was surrounded by dysfunction, which he later identified as mental illness. His father was manic-depressive, his mother was an alcoholic and his stepfather was abusive. Later, when asked “Why do you want to become a psychiatrist?” he would answer, “Because I come from a crazy family.” Dr. Hallowell’s desire to become a psychiatrist came from a place of love–he loved his family and wanted to help them. He credits his love and connection to his family, friends and mentors, as the thing that helped him beat the odds and build a happy, successful life, even if it was seasoned by many harrowing moments.