A TAMESIDE author has released a deeply personal new book celebrating friendship and the importance of talking openly about mental health.
Jessica Jones, a first-time writer, has published What A Braidy Adventure, a 100-page paperback inspired by her close friendship with Pete and the lasting impact he had on her life.
Independently published, the book explores the joys of friendship, the challenges of grief and the journey of learning to carry the memory of someone special forward.
Its release comes ahead of World Mental Health Day on Saturday, October 10, with Jessica hoping the book will encourage readers to have more open conversations about mental health – particularly men’s mental health.
All funds raised through sales of the book will be donated to local mental health and suicide prevention charity The Anthony Seddon Fund.
Jessica said: “Sometimes the people we lose never really leave us. They live on in our memories, in the stories we tell, and in the way they continue to influence our lives.”
Through a mixture of humour, honesty and personal reflection, Jessica honours Pete’s legacy while highlighting the importance of checking in with the people around us.
The book encourages readers to reflect on their own friendships and relationships, cherish the people in their lives and remember that simply asking someone how they are can make a difference.
Jessica also hopes her story will challenge the stigma surrounding conversations about mental health, reinforcing the message that asking for support is a sign of strength rather than weakness.
Writing the book gave Jessica an opportunity to reflect on friendship, loss and resilience whilst creating something that could potentially help others.
Jessica said the book is ultimately an invitation for readers to remember the people they have lost, celebrate the friendships they still have and make sure they continue to check in with those around them.
What A Braidy Adventure is available now in paperback on Amazon, with proceeds donated to The Anthony Seddon Fund.