Raising Mental Health Awareness: Writing Jackson

When is the last time each of us openly discussed mental illness with friends or family members? As a parent, can we speak honestly about our fears and desperation when one of our own children is living with this debilitating disease? Can we comfortably talk about it ourselves if we are the ones in crisis?

The goals for my most recent book Jackson are very clear, as a mother and son find themselves wandering through the constantly evolving landscape of acute and chronic mental health. This novel is meant to help increase understanding and raise awareness so we can recognize the signs of those around us who are struggling, including caregivers. I hope it generates honest, open and real conversations where we can each become comfortable talking about this subject which has been “taboo” for far too long. 

The most rewarding aspect of being an author comes from reader and book club reviews. It’s the validation that we have indeed met our goals. In the past month, after the release of Jackson, time and time again the feedback from readers (and listeners) has been heartwarming.

Jackson is increasing awareness as affirmed by those who are facing their own mental illness.

“His experiences are raw and uncut, as confused and desperate as one can feel when all you know is heightened awareness of all that’s around you. Everyday tasks can seem like mountains to climb, and giving up looks more and more appealing.” (Savera, Goodreads)

“While this book is fictional, the situations that are dealt with are very real. I know through first hand experience of having dealt with my own mental health challenges and how people treated me, with misunderstanding, with curiosity, with insensitivity but with a single parent mother who loved me, stood by each and every moment.” (Ian, Goodreads)

This novel is also an accurate portrayal of the unique and personal battle fought by every family who is faced with the unthinkable. How do we cope as caregivers?  

Kudos to Lynn on capturing the feelings of Jackson as he struggles with his mental illness and her portrayal of every parents’ heartache in recognizing and coping with the reality of having such a child. Very insightful and definitely worth reading! (Mare, Amazon

Jackson is a stark but clear guide as to how one family finds a way to first acknowledge and then to ultimately accept the realities of mental health and through it all maintain a deep and abiding love for one another…. In its entirety, Jackson provides a sense of safety and security in the knowledge that there are pathways through the convoluted and terrifying world of mental health. There are ways that can and do nurture compassion and love (Introduction of Jackson by A Goyette, MSW/RSW)

I thought of Sylvia Plath’s The Bell Jar as I read this. I felt a need to help Jackson but found myself wanting. Whatever. Any book on a par with The Bell Jar is worth reading, at any time, any place. Read it.   (C. Maddox, Goodreads)

One in five of us in Canada and the United States will experience a mental illness in our lifetime. If it doesn’t happen to us directly, it likely will for someone we care for. With unwavering empathy, Jackson is a bold and unforgettable story of a family navigating through the terrifying waters of mental illness. While there is no simple fix with a kiss to the forehead, will Jackson learn to hear the chatter in his head and know what to do about it? Will love and hope prevail?

Why not pick up the phone or visit someone you haven’t checked in with for a while? Start the conversation that may be so desperately needed. You may be the spark that helps someone take the first step towards their future.

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Lynn McLaughlin is an award-winning author who writes with passion, sensitivity, and insight never losing sight of the reader. She is the host of the podcast, “Taking the Helm” and has also helped many aspiring authors publish their manuscripts through her personalized and interactive “Time to Publish” workshop series. Lynn has recently retired as an educator after 31 years, serving in many roles including Superintendent of Education, Principal, Vice-Principal, French and Special Education teacher. Mother of three grown children, she currently lives with her husband in southern Ontario. Driven by a single mission, Lynn leads and empowers us to make conscious and positive choices.

JACKSON 

Tags: featured, women writers

Category: Contemporary Women Writers, On Writing