Back from the Brink

“This is a brave book that will certainly help remove stigma, and provides real hope and practical help.”
—Tony Blair, former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom

“Depression is deeply personal and intense in a way that others may find difficult to comprehend. That’s why individual stories are crucial if we are to educate and combat public stigma. Back from the Brink does just that.”
—Geoffrey Gallop, DPhil, professor and director of the graduate school of Government at the University of Sydney and former Premier of Western Australia

“Depression and bipolar disorder are serious illnesses, but they can be safely and effectively treated. The incredible personal stories in Cowan's book show that people suffering from these illnesses are not alone, and that recovery is possible. The practical advice contained in this book will provide a path to recovery, as well as hope that a fulfilling life is within everyone's reach.”
—C. Edward Coffey, MD, vice president of Henry Ford Health System; CEO of Behavioral Health Services; and Kathleen and Earl Ward Chair of Psychiatry, Henry Ford Hospital

“Back from the Brink is an extraordinary collection of interviews with famous and not-so-famous individuals who have lived through the experience of depression and bipolar disorder. It provides invaluable insights and practical advice. It also sends the message, ‘You are not alone,’ to anyone struggling with mental illness, and reminds families and friends how much a difference their support can make in the journey toward recovery.”
—Michael J. Fitzpatrick, MSW, executive director at NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness)

“Too many books about depression and bipolar disorder share only one person’s thoughts and journey in dealing with one of these disorders. But in Back from the Brink, Graeme Cowan provides insightful and heartfelt interviews with eight others who’ve made the journey and come out the better for it. Cowan’s engaging interview style and thoughtful questions make it easy to take away inspiration and hope from the book. Friends, family, and anyone who’s grappled with depression or bipolar disorder will appreciate the worth of Cowan’s valuable contribution.”
—John M. Grohol, PsyD, founder of psychcentral.com, the leading online mental health network, and coauthor of Self-Help That Works

“Powerful personal testimonies from those of us who have experienced mental health problems can inspire as well as shift public perceptions. As we know from anti-stigma work at Time to Change, personal disclosure can dissolve stereotypes and support recovery. This amazing book really puts people in the driving seat of their own recovery and is helpful, hopeful, and empowering.”
—Sue Baker, director of Time to Change