Leicester Psychologist Draws on Family Huntington’s Diagnosis in New Mental Health Book
By Health Correspondent
A Leicester-based clinical psychologist has drawn on her own family experience of Huntington’s disease to write a new book aimed at improving understanding and mental wellbeing support for those affected by the condition.
Dr Sarah Gunn began her career working with people living with Huntington’s disease (HD) before discovering that the same rare, inherited neurodegenerative condition had emerged in her own family.
Her father was later diagnosed after developing unexplained symptoms, a revelation that also meant she faces a 50% genetic risk.
The discovery, she says, was a turning point both personally and professionally.
Huntington’s disease is a progressive condition caused by a genetic mutation that leads to the breakdown of nerve cells in the brain. It affects movement, cognition, and behaviour, and is often accompanied by significant emotional and psychological strain for individuals and families.
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Dr Gunn describes the experience of learning about her father’s diagnosis as sudden and destabilising — something she has since seen echoed in many of the people she has worked with in clinical practice.
Her new book, Coping with Huntington’s: A Path to Better Mental Wellbeing, published by Routledge in collaboration with the Association of Clinical Psychologists (ACP-UK), combines personal reflection with practical psychological approaches, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Rather than focusing solely on the clinical progression of the disease, the book explores how people affected by Huntington’s — whether diagnosed, at risk, or family members — can develop coping strategies and maintain psychological wellbeing in the face of uncertainty.
Dr Gunn argues that while there is currently no cure, individuals can still regain a sense of control by finding ways to live alongside the condition and its wider impact on family life.
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The book also highlights the importance of support networks and access to psychological care, alongside tools for managing distress and emotional change.
In a foreword, Consultant in Neuropsychiatry Professor Hugh Rickards describes Huntington’s disease as historically carrying “a great deal of social taboo and shame”, adding that Gunn’s personal approach helps bring those experiences into the open and makes psychological ideas more accessible.
The Huntington’s Disease Association has also welcomed the publication.
Chief Executive Cath Stanley said it offers a rare combination of personal insight, practical coping strategies, and engagement with current psychological research.
Dr Patrick Weydt, Chair of the European Huntington’s Disease Network, called it “a brave and personal book” and a useful resource for those affected by the condition.
For Dr Gunn, the aim is straightforward: to improve understanding of the emotional burden carried by Huntington’s families and to highlight that support can make a meaningful difference.
“There isn’t enough recognition of the mental wellbeing difficulties experienced by members of Huntington’s families,” she said. “People aren’t helpless, and Huntington’s doesn’t get to beat us.”
The book is available for pre-order and out on 1 July, available by clicking here with a 20% discount code when applied APSYCCWH20.
