My Life As A Side Effect - Millissa Deitz

The World Health Organisation forecasts that by 2020 depression will be the second largest illness after heart disease. It is estimated that 10% of the Australian population will suffer a mental illness at some time in their lives. It is clear depression is an issue that has major social implications. However, many of us are unclear on exactly what constitutes depression, why people suffer from it and what can be done to help?

'My Life As A Side Effect' aims to define depression, eliminate stereotypes, and clarify the illness. Depression is an ongoing illness that can be unpredictable, debilitating and difficult for family and friends to comprehend. Understanding more about this illness is essential for helping those who suffer from it and those close to them.

A loose diary of her journey through depression from diagnosis, to treatment, to today, My Life as a Side Effect follows Millissa Deitz as she struggles to manage her illness through drugs, therapy, self-harm, relationship breakdowns, paranoia, anxiety, suicide attempts, understanding, love and maturity. At times funny, moving and inspiring her story gives an insight into the feelings of someone who has suffered the despair of depression and survived.

Eventually Millissa's story does have a happy conclusion. She has found ways to cope with her illness, has formed a happy relationship, and no longer feels as though depression will be the end of her. She doesn't believe she will ever be fully cured but she has found a way to deal with her depression and through her book aims to help others do the same.

'My Life As A Side Effect' includes interviews with people who have suffered varying degrees of depression. They range in age, manifestations of the illness and treatment methods. It also includes interviews with medical professionals and SANE Australia and Mental Illness Education Australia (MIEA) contribute fact sheets, information, and strategies for dealing with depression and stress on a daily basis.

Milissa uncovers her inner world, full of turmoil and emptiness. She gives clare and accurate account of her depression, demonstrating clear and effective writting ability.