“I am in awe of this book. As someone who loves several people living with bipolar disorder, I’m deeply grateful for how Deb Francis illuminates not only the internal experience of mania, but also the roles loved ones can play in offering support. The author is equal parts vulnerability and optimism, showing us the power of storytelling to make sense of chaos—and the strength it takes to write through pain. This book is such a gift to so many.”

-Christine Wolf
Memoir Coach, Founder of Write to Heal Workshops & Retreats, and author of Politics, Partnerships & Power: The Lives of Ralph E. and Marguerite Stitt Church, Former Columnist with Chicago Tribune’s Pioneer Press

“Deb Francis’ story will touch your heart. She is an award-winning speaker who was recognized by the National Alliance on Mental Illness for her ability to use the story of her personal journey with mental illness to help and inspire others. Her warmth, wisdom, sincerity and humor will give you new insights and positively change the way you think about mental illness. Deb’s story will bring tears to your eyes and will leave you with a smile on your face”

-Ken Norton, Former NAMI NH Executive Director

“Wow—this book was incredibly insightful. Deb’s openness about living with bipolar disorder offers a rare, honest look into the challenges, confusion, and emotional weight that come with navigating mental illness.

I highly recommend this book to anyone wanting to better understand what these struggles truly feel like from the inside. While many of us can relate to some of the difficulties Deb describes, imagining all of them happening at once is overwhelming—and her courage in sharing those experiences is remarkable.

Deb’s story is powerful, brave, and deeply human.”

-Nancy K.

“I had the opportunity to work with Deb several times over a few years. At the time, she was associated with NAMI NH, and I was organizing panel discussions as part of in-service training for employees of the state court system in New Hampshire. Deb played an integral part on the panel and was consistently a highlight when speaking to the audience. She had a unique way of relating to everyone and always held their attention.

Deb describes her journey through mental illness in a particularly relatable and poignant way. The story of her life, struggles, recovery, and successes significantly impacted those who heard her. Her dedication and commitment to bringing awareness to mental illness issues is unwavering. Her knowledge and understanding of the issues give her a unique perspective on the subject, and her ability to share that perspective with others is a gift.”

-Joan Bishop

“Deb’s story brings hope to anyone who has struggled with a mental health condition. Deb shares a courageous life journey that illustrates the strength to persevere despite the challenges that mental illness can present. What Deb has to offer is an inspiration and a gift.”

-Elaine deMello

“Deborah’s account of bipolar disorder I is spot on. The effects it has on work and sleep is captured wonderfully in a way that resonates with me (someone who also has bipolar disorder). I finished it in only a few days as it was an easy read and flowed perfectly. I highly recommend this book if you have been touched by this disorder either having it or knowing someone that does. Thank you Deborah for sharing your story and being so brave!”

-LR

“OH, T.H.I.S. book!!!! It’s a raw, real, captivating, engaging, authentic and relatable account about one women’s journey with bipolar. It’s a great walk through Deb’s mind, life & living room. It’s a wonderful telltale story of her love/hate relationship with her own mental health. An exquisite journey of a woman who spent half her lifetime advocating for herself, supported by her family, friends, family, doctors, therapists and even her dentist. Deb shares her bipolar walk down a dark slippery hallway of medications, therapy and countless hospitalizations. Until now, I never gave much thought to the stigma and embarrassment surrounding mental illness and the fight for life. A victim of my husband’s suicide, this book answered so many of my questions, it will forever be a gift to my heart. This is a must read book for all. Deb shares her story eloquently and includes her journey, successes, failures and her love story with her current husband. This is a wonderfully written story about love, trust, determination, independence and the importance of being your own medical advocate. I was touched and forever changed by this book. Bravo, Deb! Bravo.”

-Mrs. Linda M. Bolte

“I read Discomfort in the Manic Mind in six hours and could not put it down. The writing was on point—clear, thoughtful, and profoundly powerful. Deb managed to articulate something so deeply complex with grace and honesty, and I was completely absorbed from beginning to end. So many passages resonated with me on multiple levels. Her reflections on growing up, the dynamic with parents from a certain generation, the unspoken expectations, the silent struggles—felt incredibly familiar.

Deb’s emotional world is laid bare on the page and it struck a deep chord. While I’ve never experienced the extremes she endured, I recognized myself in so many of the patterns she describes. This book made me feel seen in a way I didn’t even know I needed.

I was so deeply moved by Deb’s wisdom, bravery and vulnerability. This book is truly a gift for those struggling with any mental health issues, their family or friends, or for those who just wish to gain a better understanding.”

-kcat