Silent Souls Weeping

I heard about Silent Souls Weeping by Jane Clayson Johnson on a podcast one time and so asked for it for my birthday. I read it a couple months ago but just realized I somehow forgot to put it on this blog! The book description says, "Through the power of story, nationally recognized journalist Jane Clayson Johnson shines a light on the desperate, dark, and lonely reality faced by those who struggle with clinical depression. At once hopeful and heart-wrenching, Silent Souls Weeping examines the stigma and isolation associated with depression, as well as the dangers of perfectionistic tendencies and suicidal ideation. Beginning with an open and frank exploration of her own experience with clinical depression, the author goes on to share stories gathered from interviews with more than 150 men, women, and teens all members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who have suffered from depression. Within these stories is a plea to change the dialogue surrounding depression, particularly among Latter-day Saints, who face unique struggles as they try to fit a disease manifest through sorrow into a religion centered on a 'plan of happiness.'"

This book was SO GOOD. When I was only like a quarter-way into it, I already felt the need to recommend it to others. I feel like it was such an important read to either help those suffering from depression to feel less alone and more understood or to help those who don't "get" depression to gain a greater understanding of what others are going through. It was from an LDS perspective, and I just thought the book was incredibly meaningful and inspiring and helped me see better ways to help others who are suffering.

Rating: * * * (3/3 = Loved it)