BOOKS AND MAD STUDIES

Mad Studies is an emerging field that explores the history, culture, politics, lived experiences, and advocacy of people who identify as “Mad,” “Psychiatric Survivors,” mental health system users, and those with experiences of mental health challenges, among others. The roots of Mad Studies can be traced back to the human rights movements of the 1970s when groups on both sides of the Atlantic rose up to fight for dignity and justice.

The word “Mad” in this context has been reclaimed, shifting from a term of stigma to one of pride—similar to how “Gay Pride” developed. The Icelandic translation of terms like “Mad” and “Madness” is still evolving. Currently, we use the term Brjálaður (which can mean both “mad” and “furious”), reflecting both the experience of being “mad” and the justified anger that comes with it. Therefore, we introduce Brjáluð fræði – Mad Studies.

The books and research presented at this symposium focus on the lived experiences of people with mental health challenges. Examining these experiences from the perspective of those who have lived them is a key element of Mad Studies.

What: Symposium on Mad Studies – Research presentations and author readings

Where: The Nordic House, Sæmundargata 11, 102 Reykjavík

When: March 1st, 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM (15:30 – 17:00)

Languages: Icelandic and Icelandic Sign Language

PROGRAM:

Mad Studies and Research on Books

An introduction to the academic framework and origins of Mad Studies, along with the research project: The experience of publishing an autobiographical book about mental health challenges.

Gunnhildur Una Jónsdóttir – Master’s student in Disability Studies at the University of Iceland and holds an MFA in Visual Arts from Carnegie Mellon University.

Boðaföll – New Approaches in Suicide Prevention

Fanney will discuss how the book Boðaföll was created through collaboration among several authors and will read selected passages.

Fanney Björk Ingólfsdóttir – Holds a BA in Psychology from the University of Akureyri and is a Master’s student in Creative Writing at the University of Iceland.

A Critical Theory Perspective on the Implementation of Peer Support and Recovery-Oriented Approaches

Peer support has been gradually introduced at the Mental Health Services of the National University Hospital since 2021. This shift involves former users of mental health services being hired as staff members within various departments. Research indicates that implementing peer support can be challenging when recovery-oriented approaches are not fully embraced. This presentation examines this workforce transition from a critical theory perspective, analyzing the mental health system as a structure of power.

Nína Eck – Social worker (MA), Peer Support Team Manager at the National University Hospital, and Peer Support Trainer.

From the Highest Heights to the Deepest Depths

On the origins of Life is a Place Where Living is Forbidden and Cleansing Fire.
Steindór will provide insights into the creation of his books Life is a Place Where Living is Forbidden (Veröld, 2023) and Cleansing Fire, an upcoming poetry collection. He will also read excerpts from both works.

Steindór J Erlingsson – Biologist (BSc) and Historian of Science (PhD).

Accessibility:

The Nordic House has good accessibility in most areas. There is a wheelchair ramp leading to the building, and an elevator inside provides access to the exhibition space, Hvelfing. The children’s library can be accessed via stairs from the main library, but for wheelchair users, it is accessible through Hvelfing. The Elissa hall has good accessibility.

Accessible restrooms are available on the main floor, and all restrooms are gender-neutral.

A sensory-friendly space will be available during the event, located near the event area and clearly marked. The symposium will be conducted in Icelandic and interpreted into Icelandic Sign Language.

Public Transport:

• Bus 15 (Stop: Íslensk erfðagreining)
• Buses 1, 3, and 6 (Stop: University of Iceland)