Melanie bravely shares her wisdom from lessons learned so that we can break the silence and stigma attached to PTSD, addictions, domestic violence and mental illness. This book serves as a tool and as a conversation starter for all helping professionals, parents, teachers, teens, 1st Responders etc... Not only will you be filled with hope, but you will: -Explore the cost and ripple effects that poor coping mechanisms can produce. -Learn what to do and what not to do when facing adversity. -Look at the crippling consequences of shame, isolation, and perfectionism. -Discover how owning your story will build your self-esteem and help you grow in resilience. -Learn to rise above your mess and be tenacious for your freedom! So many of us struggle being our true authentic selves. We walk around wearing masks and we silence our urge to scream that "Everything is NOT OK!" As a result we communicate through silent coping mechanisms. Melanie shares the vital role self-expression and vulnerability played not only in attaining but maintaining her freedom and peace. She is a firm believer that if we would "dare" be more real and honest in our relationships as individuals, families and society, that we would experience a decline in anxiety, depression, medication, divorce, addictions, and other mental and physical health issues. The cost of silence and isolation almost cost Melanie her life and that is why she is so passionate about being a voice for those who have no voice. She encourages us all to never give up hope and to be tenacious for our freedom! Her testimony reveals the depths of the fragility and resilience of the human spirit.