Ohio-based creative writer Tanisha Herrin is releasing a powerful new book, “Fighting the Blues as a Black Woman: How I Survived Suicidal Depression.” The book-her 10th work to be self published-is available for free and will help raise awareness about depression and benefit an Ohio mental health cause.

Akron, Ohio, February. 21, 2011 — Seasoned author Tanisha Herrin is pleased to announce the upcoming release of her new book, “Fighting the Blues as a Black Woman: How I Survived Suicidal Depression.” Although she has nine other self-published books, this will be her first book in the self-help, inspirational genre.

“Fighting the Blues as a Black Woman” is Herrin’s personal perspective on how depression and several suicide attempts almost destroyed her life. It is also a book of inspiration and triumph. Herrin says: “Even though I have been through a lot over several years-being robbed at gun point, three suicide attempts and losing my mother to name a few-I found a way to view my life in a new light. Others who have been through similar downfalls can bounce back to fulfill their life’s purpose.”

Herrin, who is 28 years old, battled depression for 11 years, starting at an early age and continuing through young adulthood. In her book, she poignantly describes her struggles, talks about what may have perpetuated her depression and shares details about the three suicide attempts she had before the unexpected passing of her mother. She also recounts how she used healthy eating, exercise, positive thinking and other strategies to improve her life—not just for herself, but for her children.

Interestingly, “Fighting the Blues as a Black Woman” is not for sale. Instead, people can request a free copy of the book in paperback, ebook or digital format. For each copy of the book that is requested, $1 will be donated toward an Ohio mental health cause via the Nancy A. Herrin Foundation. The non-profit foundation-started in memory of Herrin’s late mother-will donate up to $2,000. “I hope to help raise awareness of how depression can have serious effects on your life if the proper steps aren’t taken to improve your well-being,” Herrin says. “So many people are affected by depression daily that they think it’s normal or okay to be miserable and live an unfulfilling life.”

“Fighting the Blues as a Black Woman” was written for and dedicated to Herrin’s children, who are 6 and 2 years old. “It is possible my children may deal with depression when they get older, and I wanted to set an example for them while hoping to help others.”

Depressive disorders affect approximately 18.8 million American adults or about 9.5 percent of the U.S. population age 18 and older in a given year, reports the National Institute of Mental Health. And according to the World Health Organization, depression will be the second-largest killer after heart disease by 2020. These statistics make “Fighting the Blues as a Black Woman” a timely and valuable resource.

The book, which has a bonus section on poetry, has been described by reviewers as emotional and powerful. For instance, Richard Farrell said, “Tanisha Herrin’s latest publication is far more then it sets out to be. This is because it not only charts the personal history of her twenty-eight years, and the lessons learned that she wishes to pass on. It also does this in a tumbling way that made it impossible for me to leave her book alone.” Virginia Gatmaytan described “Fighting the Blues as a Black Woman” as recommended reading for people who are going through depression. She said, “They will certainly be inspired by Tanisha’s journey. It is likewise worthwhile for people who belong to the inner circles of people in despair. They will be guided in extending support.”

The official release date of “Fight the Blues as a Black Woman” is February 23. The book will be available at Amazon.com, Lulu.com and Herrin’s Website at www.therrinpoetry.com. For more information about the book, call 330-258-0053. For details about the Nancy A. Herrin Foundation, visit www.nancyherrinfoundation.org.

About Tanisha Herrin
Tanisha Herrin is a creative writer and the owner of Inspire Creations, a business she founded to showcase her inspirational poetry, books, photography and custom bookmarks. Her creative projects are a form of therapy that is not only helping her adopt a more positive outlook on life, but is also helping others improve their lives. Herrin is based in Akron, Ohio.

Press & Media Contact:
Tanisha Herrin
Therrinpoetry.com
Akron, OH – United States
330-258-0053
inspirecreations@therrinpoetry.com
http://www.therrinpoetry.com