How Michelle Williams’ Faith Helped Her Overcome Depression

Hello, my name is Michelle Williams. The name of my book is Checking In: How Getting Real about Depression Saved my Life—and Can Save Yours.

I wrote this book based on my mental health journey. It’s a memoir, so you’re going to get some highs and lows, some funny moments—probably too many funny moments. Scripture as well, because faith plays a big part in me overcoming depression. I want to walk with people on their journey and let people know that they are not alone and that depression, anxiety, or any other mental illness or whatever diagnosis you have, does not define you.

I titled it Checking In because there were three things that I needed to do. I needed to check in with God, I needed to check in with myself and I needed to check in with others. So if you have all that in balance, to me, that’s a good check-in. I also couple all of that with counseling/therapy weekly.

My favorite Bible verse—all my life it’s been Proverbs 3:5 and 6, but for the past year or so, I’ll have to say it’s Philippians 4:8 because I think a part of changing your mind, renewing of your mind, has to do with what you think. So think on those things. Lovely, good, pure, good report, praise, think on those things.

I think my favorite uplifting song to sing is probably The Joy of the Lord by Twila Paris. It’s so sweet. It’s so simple. ♪ The joy of the Lord will be my strength ♪ ♪ I will not falter, ♪ ♪ I will not faint. ♪ I love that song.

I really hope that my readers take away from the book of strength and resilience. Bounce back, get back up, you know, if we have to take a break but don’t get out of the game. And that God is with you.

Thank you so much. I cannot do what I do without you. And to everyone at Guideposts, thank you so much for having me with you guys. And I just pray that this book impacts people, it inspires, and it changes lives. I know that that is my purpose: to inspire, impact and encourage. ♪ The joy of the Lord will be my strength ♪ ♪ I will not falter, ♪ ♪ I will not faint. ♪