Beating Hospital Grade Depression and Anxiety A Lived Experience Guide to Recovering Your Body, Mind and Spirit

When facing a mental health crisis, finding a way forward can feel impossible. For the author, that crisis came in the form of severe bipolar disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder—a journey that included a devastating breakdown and hospitalisation, a long recovery process, and ultimately, a fulfilling life. In this deeply personal and practical book, W.B. Turner reflects on the physical, mental and spiritual dimensions of recovery. From the critical role of nutrition, exercise and sleep in regaining stability to the transformative potential of reframing thoughts, the transcendent power of inspiration, and the often-overlooked role of faith, every page offers insights shaped by lived experience. Written with empathy and authenticity, this book is more than a guide—it's a lifeline for anyone struggling to find clarity, stability or hope in their mental health journey. Whether you're amid your own struggle or supporting someone you love, this book is an encouraging reminder that recovery is not only possible but achievable.

W.B. Turner grew up on his family's sheep farm in regional New South Wales. As a boy, he loved playing cricket and basketball and found his best results at school came from a love of writing—particularly in the subjects of English and History. Soon after he finished high school, he experienced depression and anxiety. After a long period of being undiagnosed, this led him to an eight-week stay in psychiatric hospital in his early twenties. With the benefit of an accurate diagnosis during his hospital admission and supportive family and friends, he completed a degree in media and communications from the University of Sydney and has worked in that field ever since. As someone with a lived experience of both a mood disorder (bipolar disorder) and an anxiety disorder (obsessive compulsive disorder), he knows how living with conditions like these can damage one's confidence. He is passionate about encouraging others with mental health issues. He has previously worked as a patient advocate in the New South Wales hospital system and as a volunteer presenter for the Black Dog Institute's high school mental health program. He lives with his wife and four children in Sydney, Australia.