NICOLA VALLEY NEWS Local author recounts challenging past few years in her new book

health issues.

“Another big aspect of this is that I talk about alcohol use for people with mental illness,” noted Verheyden, who herself quit drinking in late 2021.

“I used it a lot as a treat, I’m home after a hard day at work, and I deserve it – which is what society tells you. To relax, you have a glass of wine, and it’s usually never just one glass, more like a bottle.”

The Merritt author believes society plays a large role in perpetuating the omnipresent nature of alcohol, and for not adequately warning next generations about the possible dangers that come with the overuse of alcohol. She described her use of alcohol to self-medicate for mental health issues as “pouring gasoline on the fire,” and believes this applies widely to society as a whole.

Since publishing her first book, Verheyden has kept the topic of mental health top of mind while writing. Her second book, Quit the Hustle, talks about society’s obsession with the “hustle,” and the risk of burnout. Verheyden also recently spoke at an x-ray technician’s conference regarding her personal journey with mental health, invited as one of the conference’s keynote speakers.

Everything is Broken and Completely Fine was released on Monday, January 23, and is available at Black’s Pharmacy in downtown Merritt. Verheyden’s books are also available online at www.miriamverheyden.com.