I never set out to be a self-help book author, it was kismet. My love of books and the written word began as a little girl playing librarian in the nook of my nan’s lounge. Any cheap jumble sale books were allowed to be stamped at the front with my ink pad set, bought for me by my darling mum. 

Immersing myself, I’d design and write out ‘borrowed tickets’, then arrange alphabetically and categorise her entire collection. It astounded me that just those 26 letters of the alphabet, when used in endless combinations, could complete a book that made you feel so much!

My self-help book journey  

Going forward, I tried to make sense of my world by writing poetry and journaling, which I still do. Mental health has always been a clear focus. I dream that my debut – combining memoir and self-help – breaks down remaining stigma and taboos around the subject, showing there is no shame in seeking or asking for help to feel your best. 

I began writing my book as we came out of lockdown. I had an idea that anyone who lives with a mental health condition, like me, was likely to find their symptoms exasperated by this unprecedented, surreal moment in time. And that navigating this would feel even more overwhelming than usual. 

It came to me, having lived with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and high-functioning anxiety for over 35 years, all the tools I’d learned and still use might be helpful for many others. 

With an overriding drive to support anyone struggling, I decided to write. But I knew… It had to be easy to read, simple to digest and quick to show a way to helping yourself feel better. Almost four years and Over Catastrophising Daily launched in March 2025! 

It was a personal risk as my self-help book is so raw and brutally honest about my condition, my life, my challenges and fight to get better. Yet within the dark there is much inspiring light – lifting, supporting and giving practical advice on how to start managing anxiety to fully live. 

My writing and speaking journey continues

Since I began the self-help book writing process, I’m hooked. I have the bug and it’s my full-time focus. As a retired educator, passing on knowledge and tools so people can educate themselves, and share their learnings, has given me over thirty years of pleasure. I pray this continues through my new calling as a published author, mental health advocate and speaker.

In my spare time, I work alongside inspiring minds as a member of West Sussex Writers and Arun Scribes. Here I get to play with words and all things bookish, allowing creative juices to flow. I also regularly perform my own poetry. You can follow my creative writing journey on my Mental Health Journal.