John Read

Prof John Read is a Professor at the University of East London, specializing in critical mental health research. His work focuses on Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) ethics, antidepressant withdrawal, trauma-informed care, and psychiatric labeling critiques. He has published extensively on patient rights, mental health policy, and the societal impact of adverse childhood experiences. Key contributions include audits of ECT practices in England, studies on antipsychotic withdrawal challenges, and advocacy for trauma-informed mental health frameworks.

His research integrates clinical, ethical, and sociopolitical perspectives, emphasizing patient autonomy and evidence-based critiques of biomedical psychiatry. Recent projects address cardiac risks of ECT in adolescents, the role of social adversities in psychosis, and the need for withdrawal support services for antidepressant users. Collaborations include interdisciplinary teams across psychology, medicine, and public health.