My first suicide attempt was in 2004.  Yes, I said “first.”  Others followed.  I’m pretty forthright about my struggles with mental illness.  I fight my demons as best I can, and if I can cause some good to come of it by showing others that they are not alone and that mental illness is not something to be ashamed of, then yay me.

            My novel The Trees Beneath Us tells the story of a man suffering from grief, depression, and suicidal thoughts.  He seeks solace in nature and...