Swedish Physician Wins International Award in New York – Restrained Receives Global Recognition

Swedish physician and author Maria Ingström has been awarded the international book prize in the Psychiatry / Psychology category by the Independent Press Award 2026 in New York City for her acclaimed book Bältad. The English edition — Restrained: A Journey Through Psychosis as a Doctor and the Search for Compassionate Care — is now receiving widespread international praise for its courageous and unique perspective on psychiatric care.

Maria Ingström is the physician who became a patient.

In Restrained, she recounts her own journey through psychosis and involuntary psychiatric care — including the experience of being physically restrained. The book offers a rare glimpse into what it can feel like to receive psychiatric treatment from the inside, while simultaneously holding the identity of a doctor.

During the autumn, Maria Ingström was featured in both television and radio broadcasts across Sweden. Now her story is gaining international recognition as the English edition is honoured at the Independent Press Awards — a prominent prize celebrating independent publishing.

"I wrote the book to give voice to experiences that are rarely heard. Mental illness can affect anyone — even a doctor. My hope is that this story can contribute to greater understanding and more compassionate psychiatric care."

— Maria Ingström

The Independent Press Awards has specifically highlighted the book's honesty, courage, and its contribution to the broader conversation around mental health and the quality of care within psychiatry.

By describing her own journey — from doctor to patient and back — Maria Ingström opens a new perspective on a field where both patients and healthcare professionals often grapple with difficult and deeply human questions. It is a profoundly timely subject. This international recognition means her story is now reaching readers far beyond Sweden's borders.

About the Book Bältad (Swedish) / Restrained (English) is a autobiographical account of psychosis, involuntary care, and the path back to life. It does not only address the problem — it also presents a solution: Open Dialogue, a methodology used around the world.

The English edition — Restrained: A Journey Through Psychosis as a Doctor and the Search for Compassionate Care — is aimed at an international audience and contributes to the growing global conversation about mental health and humane psychiatric practice.

Upcoming Event — Meet Maria in New York during the Award

Swedish physician and author Maria Ingström will be in New York City attending the Independent Press Awards 2026 — as the winner of the prize in the Psychiatry / Psychology category for her book:

Restrained: A Journey Through Psychosis as a Doctor and the Search for Compassionate Care

Maria is available for interviews during her time in New York.

For press inquiries and interview requests, please contact:
hej@mindboozt.com