Dr Gillian Deakin has been studying and working in medicine for nearly half a century. She completed her doctorate degree (MD) at Monash University, after wintering as the medical officer on Antarctica. On her return, she undertook a Masters Degree in Public Health at Sydney University, to explore the causes of illness beyond the disease model. After a year running an aid program on the remote Pacific islands of Kiribati, she returned with her family to her medical practice in Bondi, Sydney, where she has worked since 1991 and has the privilege of being part of the lives of families there. While keeping a sound clinical knowledge of orthodox medicine as supervisor of general practice registrars and Examiner at the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, she broadened her understanding of health through studies in nutrition, acupuncture, yoga, meditation, lifestyle medicine and clinical hypnotherapy. She currently lives in Sydney with her husband and takes an active part in the lives of her grandchildren. She loves gardening and keeps bees.
'Dr Deakin presents a revolutionary approach that challenges conventional wisdom and offers a whole new way o thinking about unexplained symptoms. This is a game changer.' - Dr. Caroline West, GP, Health Broadcaster 'An extremely well-balanced and informed educational book. Easy to read and understand. Covering all functional information, this book is a must-read.' - Belinda, FND patient 'When your symptoms are real but elude conventional diagnosis, Dr Gillian Deakin redirects your search from the frustrating quest for answers to the emerging science of functional conditions, revealing that what is ""wrong"" with you may not be what you anticipate. Her unique mix of warmth, humour, and directness simplifies the complexities of undiagnosed symptoms, making them manageable and actionable. Her clear roadmap to recovery expertly guides you from uncertainty to confidently regaining your health.' - Sonja Armstrong, MSc (Nutrition & Functional Medicine) 'Dr Deakin finally lifts the veil on one of the most profound and little-known aspects of health which can severely and insidiously affect anyone's physical condition. Finally we are heard and understood. Thank you.' - Vero, FND patient 'Dr Deakin's book describes the complexities of so-called functional symptoms and conditions in a clear and easy-to-read form. It shines a light on what is an often misunderstood health problem. It gives hope and tools towards empowerment and improved health or recovery for patients struggling with these common and sometimes very disabling persistent symptoms. It is also an inspiration and guidance for clinicians as well as a good introduction to functional symptoms for students in the medical field.' - Anna-Karin Norlin, PhD, MD, specialist in general medicine 'In a way, this book is like a toolkit for those who want insights and answers. It's for health professionals, patients and consumers who want to be able to understand and manage these symptoms more effectively. What The Hell is Wrong With Me? most importantly reassures anyone with functional symptoms that they are not alone.' - Dr Chris Cotton, GP