In 2021, Nelson Books published my book, “Depression, Anxiety, and Other Things We Don’t Want to Talk About.” It had long been a dream of mine to publish a book with one of the largest publishers in the world.
And then it happened.
I truly couldn’t believe it. We don’t get to experience every dream or goal we have in life and so I really try to live into my gratitude when it happens.
The book came out during COVID which meant the publicity process was mostly me doing Zoom interview from my office or bedroom, which wasn’t exactly what I had long imagined. Regardless, the message I wanted to spread about the ubiquity of mental illness and our collective need to do more to care for our mental health —especially in faith communities—made it out into the world in a book I was proud of and readers from all over the world wrote to me about the impact my words had on their lives.
Grateful. I was and am grateful.
As many of you know, I don’t only work with those who suffer in their minds, I too have suffered. Depression and anxiety have been my bedfellows for many years and while I have moved through and beyond these conditions in powerful ways, there are still times they rise from the deep, reminding me that even though I am far healthier than I was, I am never quite fully healed. Unpacking that little doozy is beyond the scope of this post. But if you also suffer, you know what I mean. It’s a daily journey.
What I want to say today, during Mental Health Awareness Month, is that I’m grateful my book hit number one in the Mood Disorders category on Amazon yesterday. This, of course, makes me proud of the work but even more grateful the resource I worked hard to create is still making its way into the hands and hearts of folks who need it.
If you’re one of those people who read the book, thank you.
And if you’re a person who didn’t know the book existed, check it out.
Or, if you know someone who might need a book like this, please share it with them.
I am grateful for you all.
I am grateful for the journey.
I am grateful.
Congratulations Ryan!
I recommend your book regularly.
Just this last month a client was really encouraged by it and motivated to see their provider about trying medication.