Random Ambiguity: Generational Mental Illness and Me

A Journey of Survival: A raw, honest look at living with severe anxiety and surviving suicide.A Search for Answers: An examination of family history, experiences, choices, and influences, in an attempt to put the puzzle pieces of a life together.A Curated History: Delightful detours into Iowa lore and American history with quotes from notable figures from Sigmund Freud to Stephen King.An Honest Look at Life: A candid look at parenthood, aging, the soul, happiness, the condition of mental health care, the state of education and the effects of teaching in public schools.Growing up in the 1960's and 70's meant climbing trees, riding bikes, very little supervision, and believing that almost anything was possible. But beneath the freedom of childhood was an invisible inheritance: generations of mental illness that quietly shaped family relationships, identity, and the way the world was experienced.With honesty, wit, and remarkable self-awareness, the author explores the winding path through severe anxiety, depression, mania and the relentless habit of overthinking everything. Along the way, readers will encounter stories of hitchhiking across America, wandering the country in a vintage VW bus, teaching middle school (and the emotional scars that came with it), fascinating detours into Iowa lore and quirky world history, and the countless random moments that somehow connect into a meaningful life.After reaching the darkest point imaginable and surviving a suicide attempt, the author began the long, difficult work of healing. With the unwavering love of family and the courage to keep moving forward one day at a time, he discovered that thriving is possible.Perfect for fans of inspiring memoirs and triumphant mental health survival stories. This book will make you laugh, cry and look at the world through the lens of someone with mental illness.