Signed by the author. A survivor speaks her truth to inspire. There is strong correlation between childhood trauma and mental health issues. I suffer with PTSD and depression, and use poetry to write honestly about the multitude of issues I have experienced in my 39 years. I have found writing to be hugely therapeutic. While I recognize the value of professional therapy, my poetry has helped me to come to terms with some of these issues. If they're not already doing so, I hope to inspire the readers of this book to speak and write their truth. We don't have to be qualified writers to write down how we feel - honesty is the only qualification for this kind of work - and we don't have to share it unless we want to. This collection is called Charred. Think of a piece of wood that has been exposed to the flames. You may think of it as damaged - and it's true it has been burnt and blackened - but it is still resilient, and much stronger after going through this process. Think of me as a piece of charred wood. - Andreena Leeanne
