Dawning After Darkness is a non-fictional account of how trauma, tragedy and loss led a promising young college student into the dark, lonely and dangerous throws of depression. Battling the cultural and societal stigma, stereotypes and shame often associated with mental health diagnosis and treatment, the young author chronicles his often painful journey to mental health and wellness. With epidemics of school underachievement, bullying, school, street and family violence, in addition to soaring rates of suicide, and hopelessness among various populations of young people, this book is a must read. A fresh, young, trauma-informed perspective on the growing incidences undiagnosed and untreated mental health challenges among youth in our schools, on our campuses, in our communities and homes. By simply telling his story, this young man's gritty real-deal account provides a road map for youth, from a young, urban new author, who has walked a mile in their shoes. His honest, in-depth narrative of struggles with everything from relationship issues and troubles with school and money, to self-medication, self-harm and suicidal ideation provides young suffers and the family, friends, counselors, teachers, clergy, juvenile justice professionals and policy makers who are committed to supporting them, with real, practical insights, tools and advice. With courage and determination, he continues on the road to wellness, despite setbacks, relapses and life circumstances that presented new obstacles to overcome. His touching description of how he overcame apprehension to treatment to develop an effective working relationship with his therapist speaks to the fear and reservations many young people feel when offered opportunities for treatment. Dawning is a compelling, yet easy read which deems it a great resources to teens, college students and caregivers, alike.
About the Author: Tim Ellison is a bright, gifted young African American first-time author, who grew up in inner city Boston. Raised by a single mother of five, Tim has always been a fighter with a triumphant spirit, big dreams and aspirations. Despite the love and devotion of a nurturing family and community of support, he found himself in a fight for his life, against crippling depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress. Now on a road to mental health and wellness, Tim is working to raise awareness, break down stigma and confront stereotypes in his community and among youth who are in desperate need of the support of someone who knows their struggles first hand. He has taken a leave of absence from pursuing a degree in Business to be trained to counsel youth and provide guidance to those who love and care for them.