Getting Your Life Back

Depression is a thief. It can steal your confidence, your sleep, your peace of mind, your relationships, and even your life. Depression can feel like a dark tunnel where the only light is the headlamp of an oncoming train! If you find yourself feeling alone even in a room full of friends, losing sleep, irritable for no obvious reason, struggling to concentrate on things you used to love, you’re in good company. Author Bill Stephens spent years wondering why he felt so bad, before he figured out he was depressed. Like millions of others suffering with this insidious disease, Stephens found relief in counseling and medication, but his problems persisted. Through Valleys to Victory is about one ordinary man’s determination not just to survive, but to thrive, in spite of recurring depression. In this book, Stephens describes his own battle with depression, and his efforts to understand how the disease can mess with your mind, body and spirit. Stephens’ story is ultimately about victory, and hope for anyone willing to face their fears and stand up to their own demons, with God’s help. There are plenty of books on depression from a medical or counseling perspective, but this account adds a unique spiritual approach. Stephens believes that depression attacks not only the human mind and body, but the spirit as well. Beating depression requires healing in all three areas! Through Valleys to Victory is an open, honest and insightful approach to defining, identifying, and overcoming depression. With careful research, personal anecdotes, and emphasis on faith in Jesus Christ, it will help to relieve any soul burdened by “the blues”.

Bill Stephens is a university Professor Emeritus of accounting and a survivor of depression. He is a co-author of several published accounting textbooks, and was the co-author with his daughter Cynthia Stephens Cruz, of Life is Hell Without a Hankie – A Three Prong Approach to Overcoming Depression. Stephens’ commitment to Biblical truth and the Christian faith have led him to share his own story so others can move Through Valleys to Victory.