“Unfortunately, the downfall with always appearing strong is you give no signals you need support,” said Schmidt. “It’s like being at the beach and struggling against the waves. The lifeguard sees you and assumes you are alright and doesn’t leave his post to save you. As a result, you end up drowning because you gave the impression you didn’t need any help.”
Schmidt’s book is more than a memoir, it’s a self-help book for others suffering with depression. It candidly details the pain, suppressed emotions and untreated inner wounds that resulted in depression, even as she arrived in Germany for a positive, life-changing opportunity. She sought help after four months of suffering in silence, but like most people with depression, she didn’t want to appear weak.
One of the major barriers to health and healing for those with depression is the stigma associated with any type of mental health concern, particularly in the black community. Her book sheds light on the outdated and distorted perceptions of strength and weakness that prevents many individuals from seeking the help and healing that’s available.
The author explores the many ways in which people with depression attempt to ease their pain through self-medication with drugs, alcohol and comfort eating. For Schmidt, therapeutic journaling was a key that helped free her from a life filled with misery.
Schmidt shares entries from her personal diary to connect with readers and show them that they’re not alone in their experiences. She also includes comprehensive journal prompts for readers to help manage depression through therapeutic journaling that can also be used in group situations.
Depression is an insidious disease that robs people of their zest for life. It produces feelings of low self-esteem and sadness resulting in sleep disturbances, poor concentration and low energy levels that further exacerbates the condition. Statistics show that more than 40 million adults in the U.S. alone are depressed, don’t seek help, and are suffering in silence.
Available in a paperback and Kindle edition, “Cry. Exhale. Heal: A Journey to Inner Healing” is a story of motivation, inspiration and hope for anyone suffering with depression. Schmidt’s memoir explores the many facets of depression through her own experiences and provides a path of enlightenment for those who are suffering in silence.
About Asia Schmidt
Asia Schmidt is a licensed clinical addiction specialist associate, certified journal therapist and a certified belief therapist that has worked in multiple community mental health settings. She developed a Body Image curriculum for female adolescents for Innovate Therapy & Consulting; published “Our Family Journal: From Generation to Generation,” a family journal book for parents; and was a featured writer on Relationships and Religion for Diamond Diva Magazine. She’s a highly sought speaker who addresses topics ranging from faith and women’s empowerment to inter-racial relationships. She focuses on holistic health and ways to nourish the mind, body and spirit to help individuals attain their full potential.
Media Contact
Asia Schmidt
Phone: 919-605-2671
Email: info@asiaschmidt.com
Website: www.asiaschmidt.com
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