Conversations with Cecily Holland

Today we’d like to introduce you to Cecily Holland.

Hi Cecily, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hi, my name is Cecily, pronounced like Sicily. Growing up, I always enjoyed writing in a journal. Later, I would write for my high school and collegiate newspapers. At one point, I even wrote for a daily newspaper. I always dreamed of writing a book. I decided I wanted to write a book discussing mental health and my own personal struggle with anxiety and depression. My hope is that someone decides to get help or knows they are not alone after reading my book. I chose vulnerability and transparency to help others. I believe we are here on Earth for numerous reasons. I believe one reason is to serve and help. I always knew I would write a book. I had to decide when I was ready to release the book. I would start and stop over the years, and finally decided to finish the book in January of 2024. I wish I could say it was smooth sailing once I decided to finish the project. Some days, the words would flow onto the screen or paper. Other days, I was blank. I knew if I were to do this and put my name on it, my writing would have to be organic and come from my heart. I wanted people to feel they could understand my journey and relate to me or to someone they know who struggles or is healing in silence.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Writing a book is a journey. Well, it was for me. The writing was therapeutic, but I also wondered what people would think about me. I found the writing to be healing, as I read and wrote about my feelings and thoughts, I was sad and proud. Sad because I felt a particular way at certain times. However, I also felt a sense of pride because I am still here. You have to push and believe in yourself and your writing. If you do not believe in yourself or your project, how can you expect others to believe? I had to push past fear, doubt, judgment, and unbelief. You literally have to become your biggest cheerleader.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
The Daily Pain: My Journey with Anxiety and Depression through Faith is my first book, and I am so excited to share this book with the world. I am speaking from the perspective of someone who has lived with anxiety and depression who decided to make art through words and writing. We often hear from counselors and therapists, which is wonderful. However, my book is different because I speak from the perspective of someone who has lived through and navigated these waters, and I’m still living. My hope is by choosing to share a little bit of my story with the world, I can help someone who might be suffering in silence.

Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
I think we are constantly learning lessons and changing as we grow and age. I would hope we are. Life is not fair and can throw some harsh blows. However, it is all about the resilience inside of you. Life can be difficult at times and often cold. However, there are times when life can be extremely beautiful. I believe in treating others the way you would want to be treated. A kind word is free. Never let anyone project their insecurities or fears onto you. God is good and always working for you, even when it doesn’t feel good.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/dailypainbook
• Instagram: @dailypainbookch
• Other: dailypainbook@gmail.com