From VIP to RIP - Book Review

With its striking cover art and evocative title, From VIP to RIP by J.K. Enfield is a compelling and thought-provoking read. This powerful book delves into the intricate challenges of supporting a loved one struggling with psychological, emotional, and behavioral issues. Subtitled A Sister’s Search for Answers Through a Misunderstood Brain, Enfield shares a deeply personal journey as she seeks to understand the complexities of her brother’s struggles, which ultimately led to his tragic suicide. This poignant narrative is both eye-opening and profoundly moving.

Part memoir and part psychological exploration, this work delves into the author’s journey of growing up with a younger brother whose undiagnosed personality disorder shaped their lives. Drawing on her education in psychology, Enfield seeks to understand her brother’s complex and self-destructive behavior as a way to process her grief after his death. She examines the contradictions that defined him—narcissistic yet unsuccessful, brilliant yet socially awkward, a voracious reader unable to apply the lessons he absorbed to his own life. Through this introspective narrative, Enfield strives to unravel the mysteries of his mind and the forces that drove his chaotic existence.

Drawing from both research and personal experience, Enfield boldly explores the complexities of addiction and mental health challenges, including Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), and High Conflict Personality (HCP). Through the lens of her journey in understanding her brother, these behaviors are thoughtfully examined. The narrative is enriched with self-help tools, such as quick assessments and reflective prompts, inviting readers to actively participate in their own growth. Enfield empowers readers with practical strategies to better understand themselves while offering insightful guidance on fostering positive interactions with individuals displaying self-destructive tendencies.

This book delves into emotionally intense and complex topics such as anger, self-destructive behavior, procrastination, and even the deeply challenging subject of suicide. It confronts these issues with honesty and empathy, offering readers a deeper understanding of the struggles many face. Yet, despite the heavy themes, it also delivers hope and guidance. Enfield doesn’t leave readers in despair; instead, she equips them with practical, inspiring, and thought-provoking strategies that can be applied to real-life situations. These strategies are presented in a way that is both accessible and empowering, making the content valuable and actionable. Professionals in the fields of medicine, therapy, and counseling will find this book to be an indispensable resource, one that deserves a permanent place on every reference shelf. Additionally, the inclusion of motivational quotes, case studies, and thoughtful references provides an extra layer of depth and encouragement, ensuring readers leave with not just knowledge but also a sense of optimism and possibility.