A Joy I'd Never Known: One Woman's Triumph Over Panic Attacks and Depression

I immensely gained from reading this book. This book is the true story of a Christian woman who "thought" she knew what Christianity was all about - mostly by being helpful and in control and people-pleasing, and looking and acting a certain part. I know this to be true of so many people (especially the "in control" and the "looking and acting a certain part"). She, like so many people, thought Christians had perfect lifes and nothing ever went wrong. I especially agree with her (on page 24) where she says: ". . . valuable lessons I could not have learned by staying on the high road where the sun always shines". Another one of her quotes that I was really thankful to read is on page 198: ". . . lie out there (that the church sometimes supports) that we are to look and act a certain way". That really hit home for me because of something I had been through. She is open and honest in this book. We realize that true Christians (and people trying to become such) are just like anybody else. They don't have any special "grace" to make them be "perfect" and "unbroken". I would recommend this book to anyone. Whether you're going through a rough time, or have unresolved or unanswered anger or issues, or wondering why your life isn't perfect, or wondering why you have to put on a front to make it appear that your life is perfect, or just if you are or want to be a Christian - and that covers everyone who would be interested. There's so much I could say about this wonderful book, but I don't want to say much more, because I want people to be able to read this book without me giving anything away. But to sum it up, I will say that after she gave up her control, and let God be in control, she found joy.

This book absolutely changed my life and the way I previously perceived panic attacks and depression. I am so grateful God led me to this book. Thank you Janet Dravecky for writing your story!!!

This book is a tremendous help to someone (especially a Christian) suffering from loss and/or depression. It would also be a help to you if you have a friend or loved one suffering from these things. It is a very easy and quick book to read since it is written in a conversational manner. You get the feeling that you are a friend to whom Jan Dravecky is telling her story and sharing sound advice and support. The book came to me when I needed it most, and I will always be thankful for that. I am sorry the Dravecky family has been through so much, but out of their experience many will be blessed.

Jan is a tremendous inspiration to all women struggling with control issues but are not admitting it to themselves or others. Her insights into how being in control controlled her life is truly a gift from God. Ms Dravecky pulls from the bottom of her heart strings in order to share her life's struggles and triumphs. I read this book last summer after having lost the job of my dreams on short notice and without prospects of another one. Feeling her pain and rejoicing in her ability to get to the other side because of her strong spiritual beliefs enabled me to gain strength in my own battle. Being in control is not always in our best interest is the lesson here, as difficult as that may seem to most women in that position. A great book !