II have struggled with depression and the aftereffects of child abuse most of my adult life. I wrote two books to assist others who face these issues.

My first book is TRANSCENDING DEPRESSION. The motivation for presenting my history is to encourage others who grapple with either chronic depression or occasional bouts. I hope my journey resonates with some, validates feelings, and sparks the thoughts “I'm not alone” and “I will feel better.” This book can also help family members and friends of the mentally ill, and their caregivers, find compassion and enable them to understand the struggle. My goal is to save lives.

My second book, SURVIVING OUR PARENTS' MISTAKES, concerns recovery from emotional child abuse. My writing reflects the progression of my thinking as I stopped blaming my parents for mistreating me and started taking responsibility for my predicament and recovery. I mention stumbling blocks I encountered along the way, and finish each chapter with insights that have soothed and enriched my present life, bringing peace and vitality. I suggest strategies that will help other abuse victims.

My third, TABLE FOR ONE, deals with living as a sensitive single person in a couples world. In concise entries from my journals, I address relevant issues including loneliness, insecurity, self-esteem, moodiness, and fear of risking. I document struggles that marked my journey from rebellion to peaceful acquiescence. The result is a healthy philosophy for a sensitive person going it alone, whether by virtue of separation, divorce, or death of a partner.

My articles about depression have appeared on the websites of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, and the Canadian Mental Heath Association. I live with my wife, Cathy, in Missoula, Montana.

Visit my website at https://www.larry-godwin.com.