May 2026 

First hand accounts requested for new book exploring look at experiences such as heartbreak, depression, emotional distress, breakdown, suicidal thoughts

I would very much like to ask your readers for their kind support with a project I have been invited to explore editing for the publisher Darton Longman and Todd.

The working title is 'A Book of Comforts', a book that will look at experiences such as heartbreak, depression, emotional distress, breakdown, suicidal thoughts, and similar struggles, all considered through the lens of Christian faith. In particular, it will ask questions like: can passages from the Bible offer real comfort during such suffering? Is God’s presence felt when despair seems overwhelming? Does attending church in times of deep anguish provide help or make things harder? And what part does prayer play—whether receiving it from others or attempting it personally?

I would greatly value first-hand accounts that touch on these themes, while also allowing for broader perspectives beyond those mentioned. The aim is to gather sincere and candid reflections, without pushing any agenda or avoiding difficult, painful realities. If individuals found a sense of God’s support, I would be keen to hear about that; equally, accounts where no such comfort was felt—where God seemed distant or silent—are just as important. There is space here for faith and uncertainty, for stories of healing as well as ongoing hardship, and for everything in between. Both uplifting and sorrowful experiences are welcome.

The objective is for 'A Book of Comforts' to form a truthful and fairly wide-ranging record of Christian experience, in both its positive and challenging aspects. I hope to pair contributions with insights from early Church writers and other commentators, and possibly include some reflective poetry as well.

Anyone who feels they have something to share is warmly invited to get in touch at sjp65@outlook.com and of course contributions can remain anonymous if that is preferred. 

Stephen Poxon