As a reviewer I always like to let others know if a subject in a book may be a trigger for some. This book does deal with suicide and depression that many are fighting with right now. It is a timely book because over the last four years we have seen our world turn upside down. With the crisis in the medical world we found ourselves in isolation. This journey has taken people to a place where thoughts of despair started to rise up. I appreciate the author’s openness in his struggle and how God turned his life around. Even teenagers face this crisis due to bullying, home life and news that daily reflects crimes which affect us all.

I like how the book uses Biblical figures that were struggling and used them in a mighty way. He gave them hope when they felt hopeless and restored their faith when they were about to give up. The questions at the end are a good way to dig deeper into your personal experiences. I could relate to him as he said, “ I began to have a church face, where I found myself sometimes (not always) a mess.” We go to church smiling like we are good but inside we are screaming for help. The body of Christ makes it difficult at times to share your struggle with depression and/or suicidal thoughts.

As I read the book it became apparent that I was not alone with my struggles. I have tried to find people to talk to but I have felt judged in the body of Christ and in the secular world. There is a stigma about mental hearth that needs to change. It is an illness that is hard to control at times. For me taking medication is a personal decision and should not be used by others to say we are weak or don’t have enough faith. I do know that at sone point I will find freedom from this illness. Allow God to set you free and not feel condemnation from anyone. “Every time we choose against transparency, we choose to step farther away from the best that God has for us.”

As the author describes his journey he emphasizes how important it is to get Godly counsel. Also be honest with your family and friends so they can pray for you. The enemy loves to isolate us so he can whisper thoughts to cause us to turn away from God. Have a talk with God and share your struggles. He is there to help you. Allow him to show you that you are unconditionally loved. I loved how the author shares his reconciliation with his wife and how they worked together to bring their marriage and trust back. “So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus.” (Romans 8:1)

I pray that readers will find freedom if they are struggling and know that there is hope. Every church needs a copy of this book to guide them as they counsel people who struggle with the subjects in this book. I found this book to be very helpful, honest and always directing us to God.

This was both a heart-breaking and helpful book. Morris is open and honest about his struggles, but he does a great job at connecting them to the Bible and giving the reader helpful tips on navigating their own struggles. There were some things I didn't agree with theologically, but overall I think this was a helpful book!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

Resilient and Redeemed: Lessons about Suicidality and Depression from the Psych Ward by Chris Morris is an inspiring book to read. I admired the author for telling his story of his own life long mental health battles. All throughout this book, he gives advice and plans for others to utilize on their own journey. I love how he does not stray away from using scripture and faith in doing so. I found some wisdom within the pages that I will use for myself.

I give Resilient and Redeemed: Lessons about Suicidality and Depression from the Psych Ward five stars. I recommend it for readers who enjoy Christian Living books.

I received a paperback copy of Chris Morris' Resilient and Redeemed: Lessons about Suicidality and Depression from the Psych Ward from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

Resilient and Redeemed is rich in content and deep, yet succinct and accessible. Author Chris Morris shares candidly about his history with depression and suicidality and the things that helped him through his darkest moments, even when it felt like there was no way out.

This book doesn’t offer pat answers or platitudes; it will serve as a valuable resource for anyone who struggles with mental illnesses and depression (or has friends and family members who face these challenges) which, let's face it, is so many of us these days.

Resilient and Redeemed would be an invaluable resource for any church or outreach ministry. In a couple of chapters, Chris relates his experience talking with pastors about his depression and suicidality, some of whom had a healthy approach to mental illness and others who clearly had things to learn in regard to the reality of mental illness, diagnoses, and the very real struggles with depression, anxiety, suicidality (that, yes, even Christians deal with on a regular basis).

The book has 15 chapters, and most chapters can be read within about half an hour. It could be a great month-long study, with the bulk of the chapter read on the first day, and the second day for deeper reflection with the application questions or even discussion with a trusted friend or family member (or book club).

The chapters start with a personal story from the author, then a segment that shares what he learned from the experience, followed by a section called “Why It Matters”—bringing scripture or biblical narrative into the situation.

Each chapter also has personal application points and a final powerful segment titled “What God Thinks.” Here’s one great statement from that section in chapter 9:

“There exists no action we can take, no prayer we can pray, and no thought we can think that will shock God or cause him to give up on us.”

I especially loved chapter 4, “That Just Stinks,” which relates the importance of being with someone in their grief and allowing in sorrow in one's own life as well as the lives of friends—that we don't necessarily have to have the answers but simply offering our presence can make a huge difference in someone's life.

Honestly, each chapter was very powerful. Although some resonated more with me personally, together they combine to create a valuable, vulnerable, and honest look at what struggles with mental illness can look like for a Christian as well as where help comes from, realistic ways to look at these tough issues, and even practical tips such as cognitive reframing and how to work through difficult times.

I highly, highly recommend Resilient and Redeemed. It belongs on your bookshelf (although you might find yourself loaning it out on a regular basis and needing to pick up another copy … it’s worth it!).