Thomas Nelson Checking In: How Getting Real about Depression Saved My Life---and Can Save Yours

Really great book that made me think differently about depression. Would definitely recommend.

Excellent book! I can’t put it down! I love it!

I received and Advanced Readers copy of this book, but was not asked to leave a review. But also purchased my own copies.This review may contain spoilers.I have always been a fan of Destiny's Child, and specifically Ms. Williams, her story, and her music, so I did go into reading this book with a bit of a bias :-).However, after reading it I must say the book really spoke to me and offered me a space to ask myself some challenging questions and self-reflect, check-in.What I enjoyed most about the book was Ms. Williams style of writing, it felt very much conversational, easy, intimate. There were times I felt like I was reading her journal. Her ability to be honest, transparent, and vulnerable about her triumphs and struggles really made it a page turner.However, I would say this book is more about Ms. Williams inviting the reader on a journey of acknowledging and addressing Mental Health and Depression in ones life, a journey that she is still on. Versus other books which have a more preachy direction of "this what I did to get better." Ms. Williams is honest in saying that her journey isn't complete and she is in the fight with the reader.Her self-deprecating humor and ability to tell compelling stories really helped provide a good balance. There are times where I was teary, and then I turned the page and was laughing and giggling. I will also like to note that if you are a hopeless romantic you can't help to root and pray for love and healing for Ms. Williams and Mr. Johnsons love story.Some of the tenants and highlights that really resonated for me are the following:-Understanding labels. The labels others put on us, and what we label ourselves and how explicitly or implicitly they affect us in our lives, and interactions/relationships with others.-Understanding agreement. What and how we are quick to agree without really understanding the gravity or implications of our actions when agreeing.-Understanding feelings(anxiety) over facts (intuition). How our feelings can drive us away from making decisions based on facts.The only thing I would add to the review is that the ending felt a little rushed and maybe it was because I didn't want my time with Ms. Williams and the book to end. It felt like there is more to her journey and maybe we will hopefully get an update soon, in the form of a second book!-Bryan D.

EXCELLENT. OUTSTANDING. I could not put this book down for the life of me. I kept reading as if my life depended on it and ultimately this book saved my life. I struggled with mental illness but reading this book reminded me that I am not alone. Especially as an African-American woman, we don’t talk about our mental health as often as we should. Michelle takes her readers on this raw, honest and truthful journey that is relatable and transformative at the same time. Michelle steps up and shines in her truth and as the reader it allows you to step up and do the same. If you have struggled mentally and need a place to start or look to for guidance look no further! It is the best purchase I have ever made. I’m forever grateful to Michelle for taking the time to speak her beautiful truth! Please please please purchase this book! It will save your life too!

Wonderful book!I learned a lot from Michelle Williams. Her strength to overcome depression helps me to understand depression on a whole other level."Anxiety has no relationship with truth.  Anxiety is nothing more than our fears magnified."She gives great advise on how to Check in with yourself and God. Questions to find the real emotions were very helpful.Michelle encourages me to continue growing and learning about myself. Just just self care, but being true to myself and checking in.