Review of "Darkness is My Only Companion"

"I never ask 'Why me?' Only 'Why this?'"

That's Kathryn Greene-McCreight's question about her bipolar disorder. Understanding God's goodness while dealing with illness is challenge enough; understanding his goodness while dealing with mental illness is another level of challenge entirely. In Darkness is My Only Companion (2006), Greene-McCreight, an Episcopal priest, candidly recounts what she has learned about herself and her faith through her experiences with bipolar disorder. She helps the reader understand both the manic and depressive states from the perspective of the bipolar personality. She also explains hospitalization and treatment and offers advice for Christians who may be hesitant to seek out the help of psychologists and psychiatrists.

About 2.8 percent of the American adult population suffers with mental illness, representing about 5.6 million individuals. Add family members to the number, and nearly 17 million Americans are directly affected with the consequences of mental disorders. Among that number who are believers, Greene-McCreight's book is a welcome resource.