THROUGH THE DARK WOODS

This book is based on the author’s own experience of wrestling with depression, and her story carries the book along.

Using this structure she discusses the stigma associated with depression. She talks of the importance of correct diagnosis, and the challenges of day to day survival. She takes an honest look at the temptation to suicide, and how depression affects one’s prayer life and relationship to God. Where are the sources of comfort and healing?

Jo Swinney considers biblical characters subject to depression, and argues for the importance of sharing stories. Finally she asks, what does her depression teach her?

Author Biography

Jo Swinney is the daughter of Peter and Miranda Harris, founders of the international movement A Rocha, which now operates in 20 countries including the UK. She is also goddaughter to our author Murray Watts. She has studied theology (MA in Christian Studies from Regent College, Vancouver, on top of a degree in English and African studies) and is a committed Christian – and a depressive, who has wrestled with her condition for some years. She still only in her mid-20s, which is the real USP for this book. Most authors on this topic are in middle life. There is a strong narrative thread running through the book, which again will appeal to a younger readership.