Just Breathe.

In the 1970s, I adopted a new exercise: I read what I spoke into a cassette tape, making my own tape to help me relax and breathe deeply. This helped me build my self esteem. I listened to my tape at least once per day in the process of getting well. I still listen to it today. It still helps me to relax and feel good about myself. This was during my first struggle between living or dying. Either I was going to climb out of my depression or I was going to die. I achieved what had seemed impossible. I'd given myself time. I made the right choices. I started building my life in a positive way. How sweet this success was! To my joy, I didn't want to kill myself any more.

Would I ever return to desperation and depression, and OCD? Yes, I would. But I knew that, through my learning as a patient, I could bring mental health into my life. Today I still see a counselor. I have tried to help others with the process of adjusting to a brain that doesn't quite work the way one would like. You can seek guidance from counselors, read books and take up deep breathing. You can make your own tape in your own voice, giving you sound messages.

I have written all about my various struggles with learning disabilities, OCD and anxiety and more in my book, "Is It All Right to be Human?" which is now available on Amazon.com. It tells my life story which featured many harsh, unforgiving people and much torment, but also many experiences of light and joy. Finding and marrying my wife, Gail, was one. She is a constant person and guide in my book, as she stood by me through thick and thin. If it hadn't been for that woman, I would be dead.

One of my 34 tips to help you through life reads "Have a good marriage; have the right mate." I write in the book that "it was my wife who supported me and loved me and held me at night when I was crying. Her support has been vital in my being able to lead a successful life." Thank you, Gail.

Read more at Amazon.com.