Resources

It is my hope that sharing our story can bring awareness and understanding to this important topic. Alongside my narrative, I have compiled a list of resources that have been invaluable to me. I encourage you to explore these materials, as they offer support, guidance, and insights for anyone affected by mental health challenges. Together, we can foster a community of compassion and healing and keep the need for change at the forefront to influence future legislative efforts.

BOOKS

Childhood Disrupted: How Your Biography Becomes Your Biology, and How You Can Heal, Donna Jackson Nakazawa (Atria Books, 2015)
- This book examines the connections between childhood trauma and physical health, offering pathways to healing.
Depression—Out of the Darkness and Into the Light, Dr. Daniel Hale (Gatekeeper Press, 2020)
- A psychologist and national leader in health ministries draws on his own struggles with depression, his work as a psychotherapist, and his experiences as a father who lost a daughter to depression, to offer guidance for individuals and families impacted by depression and for congregations that recognize the importance of ministering to those suffering from this terrible illness.
Epigenetics: How Environment Shapes Our Genes, Richard Francis (W. W. Norton & Company, 2012)
- Francis explores the groundbreaking field of epigenetics, demonstrating how environmental factors—such as diet, stress, and toxins—can influence gene expression and potentially be passed down through generations. This accessible introduction to epigenetics highlights its profound implications for health, behavior, and the future of personalized medicine. A good introductory book into this topic.
The Epigenetics Revolution, Nessa Carey (Columbia University Press, 2015)
- Through engaging narratives and accessible explanations, the book illustrates how epigenetics is reshaping our understanding of health and illness, including implications for cancer, mental health, and aging. Carey’s work emphasizes the dynamic interplay between genes and the environment, highlighting the potential for epigenetic research to inform new therapies and public health strategies.
Reflections on Childhood, Trauma, and Society [Brief], Dr. Bruce D. Perry (2022)
- An insightful exploration of how childhood experiences, particularly trauma, shape individuals and society. Perry examines the profound effects of adverse experiences on brain development and emotional health. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the context of childhood trauma to promote healing and resilience. Through a blend of case studies, research findings, and personal reflections, the book advocates for compassionate responses to trauma and highlights the critical role of supportive relationships in fostering recovery.
The Deepest Well: Healing The Long-Term Effects of Childhood Adversity, Dr. Nadine Burke Harris (Harper Collins, 2018)
- This book explores the science behind ACEs and offers insights into how childhood adversity can affect health throughout a person’s life.
What Happened to You?, Oprah Winfrey and Dr. Bruce D. Perry (Flatiron Books, 2021)
- A transformative exploration of the impact of trauma on individuals and society. In this insightful book, Perry and Winfrey engage in deep conversations that blend personal stories with scientific insights. They emphasize the importance of understanding the root causes of behavior by asking, “What happened to you?” instead of “What’s wrong with you?” The book delves into how early experiences shape our lives and highlights the power of resilience, healing, and connection.

TECHNICAL PAPERS AND REPORTS

“Epigenetics and Child Development: How Children’s Experiences Affect Their Genes,” Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University, 2019.
- This paper's core idea defines how early experiences are biologically embedded. Through epigenetic processes, these experiences shape gene expression, influencing mental and physical outcomes. While adversity can leave harmful marks, supportive environments can foster resilience and even reverse negative changes. The interplay between nature and nurture—not nature versus nurture—is central to child development
“From Best Practices to Breakthrough: The Role of Science in Addressing Early Childhood Adversity,” Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University, 2016.
- This report focuses on the significance of scientific research in transforming early childhood practices to better address the challenges posed by adversity in young children’s lives. It emphasizes the importance of using evidence-based strategies to support children and families facing difficulties such as trauma, poverty, and neglect.
“Preventing Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs),” National Center for Injury Prevention and Control—CDC, 2019.
- A comprehensive technical package for the prevention of youth violence and associated behaviors.
“The Foundations of Lifelong Health Are Built in Early Childhood,” National Scientific Council on the Developing Child, June 2020.
- A report that examines how experiences in the earliest years of life form the foundation for our future development, encompassing physical, emotional, and cognitive health. The report highlights the critical role that early experiences—both positive and negative—play in shaping a child’s brain architecture and overall well-being. It emphasizes that adverse experiences, such as trauma or neglect, can lead to long-term health issues and developmental challenges. Conversely, supportive relationships and environments can foster resilience and promote healthy development.

LEADING MENTAL HEALTH ADVOCACY AND PUBLIC HEALTH RESOURCES

Bring Change to Mind (BC2M)—bringchange2mind.org
- A nonprofit organization dedicated to ending the stigma surrounding mental illness with a focus on public awareness campaigns, education, and youth-led mental health programs.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)—cdc.gov
- Provides mental health resources and initiatives aimed at promoting mental well-being, preventing mental health disorders, and supporting crisis response.
Mental Health America—mhanational.org
- A nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting mental health and well-being through advocacy, education, research, and direct support services.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)—nami.org
- A leading nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals affected by mental illness through advocacy, education, support, and public awareness.

IMMEDIATE HEALTH AND HOTLINES

Suicide & Crisis Hotline—988lifeline.org
- This is a national network of local crisis centers that provide free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.
- Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.
Disaster Distress Helpline—samhsa.gov
- The national helpline is available for anyone experiencing emotional distress related to natural or human-caused disasters.
- Call or text 1-800-985-5990 to be connected to a trained, caring counselor, 24/7/365 or find resources at samhsa.gov.