This book has been on my “to read” list since it was
released, so I was glad for the opportunity to review it through
NetGalley. It was the title that
intrigued me before ever learning the details of what the book was about.
It is so refreshing to see more articles and books written
on anxiety and depression from a Christian point of view. Even in the church community, there is such a
stigma to these mental illnesses, which becomes a secret and a hidden shame,
creating a protective barrier, separating
even trusted friends and family.
Sarah is very transparent in this book about her battle with
severe anxiety and the medical, physical and spiritual ways in which she has
overcome the worst of it. There is no
sugar-coating in her unfolding of how her anxiety issues morphed into poor
health, panic attacks, and the fear that
she was literally going crazy.
The book is set up in 21 chapters, one chapter each day for
21 days. Each day/chapter she approaches
all the aspects of anxiety – what it is, why it happens, and how to face it,
along with learning how to find rest, joy and discipline in the journey toward
health. She does encourage the reader to seek medical help and professional counseling.
While reading this book, it’s evident that the author “gets
you” and is all about assisting the reader through the same exhausting journey
that she has walked through with victory. Written from the Christian point of view, it
gives the reader even more hope of healing as each of the author’s successes are referenced back to what she
learned in Scripture along the way.
Especially helpful is a chapter that is written directly to
a friend or family member who is walking through this storm with the one
suffering from the illness of anxiety or
depression. A sufferer cannot explain
what they are going through, and as with depression, may often not even realize
that they are having an episode of illness. This chapter gives good reference on what to
look for, what steps to take and especially, what not to do or say.
While my issues don’t include such severe anxiety, this book
is still beneficial to those who also may be struggling with depression or
other areas of mental bondage.
