Life as author Melissa L. Ross knew it was not only emotionally and mentally challenging, but also a harmful, physical journey. In Surviving Crazy, she narrates her life’s story, sharing how she navigated the rough periods of mental illness.

In the memoir, Ross describes not only the sporadic happy moments of her childhood, but also the details of the many deep, dark, self-abusive periods that imprisoned her and tried to destroy her truly bright and loving mind. Candidly, Ross discusses how she was confronted with one battle after another and how self-mutilation seemed to be the only recourse. Fortunately, she found the will to seek help, first with a counselor and then through a psychiatric hospital, to assist her in dealing with her haunting thoughts and self-destructive behavior.

Surviving Crazy shows how Ross’s strong will, determination, and love, coupled with a desire to help others, helped her to survive. She discusses how she learned ways to overcome the turmoil and confusion that lived in her mind. The process was long, hard, and often scary, but one that has brought her to a brighter future.