Unconditional: Learning to Navigate and Reframe Mental Illness Together

Allison (Think Possible) and her daughter, Piper, deliver an insightful dual memoir of their experiences with teenage mental illness. In Allison’s sections, she writes candidly about raising a daughter who suffers from suicidal thoughts, depression, anxiety, self-harm, and eating disorders. Even when discussing emotional topics, Allison is rational and admits she has to rein in her enabling behaviors, such as easing restrictions when her daughter complains, and her tendency to rescue her daughter. Instead of getting bogged down by blame or shame, Allison focuses on her desire for self-improvement: “I have to ignore what someone else’s version of a ‘good mother’ might look like.... I think I am exactly the mother my daughter needs right now.” Piper’s contributions take the form of poems, journal entries, or letters. Honest and raw, Piper’s sections are often difficult to read (“A plan developed in my mind/ If it doesn’t get better should I be here?/ I shouldn’t”), and her perspective on her own mental illness is profound. Each chapter ends with “steps for moving forward,” such as exercises for overcoming anxiety, fear, and self-criticism. This will benefit any parent whose child suffers from mental illness. [em](Sept.) [/em]