Books

Lynn McLaughlin’s Latest Book ‘Jackson’: A Family’s Struggle with Mental Illness

One in five of us in Canada and the United States will experience a mental illness in our lifetime.  As an educator, friend, family member and parent, I’ve been personally affected, as have so many of us. Yet, we struggle to accept and understand mental illness, knowing when to seek support and how to find it. In my own circle of friends, four of us have fought to find answers for ourselves or our own children. Mental illness takes a toll not only on the person who is trying to find their way, but on family, friends, colleagues and the community.

Jackson is a story about a beautiful mother and son bond that is tested by the ongoing struggles of mental illness. From demons and desperation to love and hope, it is destined to positively impact the lives of families.

When I first began writing Jackson, it was difficult to understand the perspective of this young man, developing a character whose anxiety had become all encompassing. I wondered about having a ghost writer or coach. Yvonne Marrs, a well-respected author from the UK with personal experience in anxiety, responded to an inquiry I had made on an online writers’ group. With her guidance, the character of Jackson came to life. Revisions continued after consultation with young men and women as well as experts in the field.

After many meetings and formal interviews with parents whose children have been struggling, as well as my own experiences, June came to fruition. She portrays any mother who is desperate to save her son while facing her own turmoil and anguish.

As written by Kingsville’s Alan Goyette (Clinical Social Worker) in the introduction:

“Perhaps most importantly this book not only provides a stark and realistic depiction of how mother and son are dealing with Jackson’s mental health, it also provides the reader with a vision of hope — a potential pathway through the systemic and very personal landmines inherent in Jackson and June’s world — towards understanding and acceptance. McLaughlin puts a human face on the very fears, anxieties, and self-doubt that are ubiquitous in the world of mental health.”

While Jackson is fictional, it is based on the experiences of many and is an accurate portrayal of the unique and personal battle fought by every family who is faced with the unthinkable. Jackson is a book filled with compassion and humanity but at times painful and frustrating to read.

I hope that Jackson will drive conversations where we can openly discuss mental illness. With education comes acceptance, understanding and advocacy. There are sometimes signs from those who are struggling, including caregivers. No one needs to feel or be alone. Let’s pick up the phone or go for a visit. We may be the spark that helps someone take the first step to seek the support they need.

The testimonials from advanced readers are what every author hopes for:

“Jackson, a bold and unforgettable story, follows the journey of a family as they navigate the turbulent waters of mental illness. Every parent wants the best for their child and when something goes wrong, they find themselves grasping for any and all advice available. Canadian author, Lynn McLaughlin, paints a loving, relatable and clear picture of the hurdles maneuvered by this family.

“The honesty and beauty in this moving story speak to McLaughlin’s ability to weave an engrossing tale and to her unwavering empathy.”

Mary-Anne Mouawad
B.A., B.Ed.,M.Ed., OCT

In the midst of this pandemic, authors have had to become flexible in finding new ways to launch our books. I’m thrilled to share that Jenn Sadai and Melissa Lyons, two fellow authors from Windsor/Essex will be co-hosting our virtual book launch party. It’s being held on October 21st at 7 pm EST with a jam-packed agenda, including giveaways. Jackson will be available wherever books are sold.

Updates on the upcoming launch and the registration link can be found on my website: https://lynnmclaughlin.com/jackson

Photos provided by Lynn McLaughlin

 

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