Fear Gone Wild

A Story of Mental Illness, Suicide, and Hope Through Loss

By: Kayla Stoecklein, Lysa TerKeurst - foreword

Narrated by: Kayla Stoeklein

Light in the Darkness. Hope in the Wilderness.

Despite his deep desire to overcome mental illness and lead others out of their own pain, pastor Andrew Stoecklein died by suicide at the age of 30. In the wake of the tragedy, his widow, Kayla, embarked on a journey to better understand Andrew’s harrowing battle, come alongside those with similar struggles, and help the church overcome the stigma of suicide.

Fear Gone Wild is Kayla’s intimate account of all that led to the heartbreaking day of Andrew’s death and the insights she has gleaned since then about the wilderness experience. From her own hard-won understanding, Kayla offers:

• Hope for those facing a mental health diagnosis, wisdom for family and friends, and companionship for anyone who has lost a loved one to suicide
• An exploration of Jesus’ wilderness experience and what it means for our own journeys
• Helpful information about panic attacks, anxiety, depression, and living with fear
• Truth in the face of myths and misconceptions about suicide
• And practical guidance for the church in handling mental health challenges

This heartfelt, hope-filled book equips us to walk alongside someone on their journey with mental illness, offers strength for those of us struggling with depression or anxiety, and turns each of us again and again to the comfort of a God who never leaves.

Discussion questions and additional resources are available in the audiobook companion PDF download.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2020 Kayla Stoecklein (P)2020 Thomas Nelson

EXCELLENT! A beautiful book of tragedy and redemption, with invaluable lessons

Such an intimate and tragic story told with a perfect balance of raw honesty and grace, all while putting everything in perspective of how tragedy and life fit into the overall ecos of humanity. The style is heartfelt writing while also insightful and informative. This book is perfect and of inmensurable value for anyone dealing with depression and suicidal thoughts, those with loved ones or friends growing through depression and struggles, and simply anyone wanting insight on how mental illness, loss, hope and faith can all work together.

kind

incredible, well written from a compassionate and honest point of view. its a breath of fresh air to see someone so vulnerable and open to sharing the tragedy they lived then to pull you in with integrity, kindness and a raw emotional devotion to God. your heart will break along the story.

A jewel in the mist of Pain

Thank you Kayla for writing this book, I don’t know you but now I do, thank you for being a voice to so many.
I’m so sorry for your loss.

Will bring tears to your eyes, truly eye-opening, definitely a must-read!

I have followed her story from the beginning but got an in-depth look into her and Andrew’s life. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, this is a great read for guidance. She is so raw and transparent, I love it. It is also a great read for those struggling with grief. Highly recommend this book!

Must read!!!

Although this is a sad story, it is so uplifting to read about how Kayla desires to bring glory to the name of the Lord through her actions! I would Recommend this book to anyone!

heartfelt

I loved her honesty about her feelings going through the years with her Andrew. What a brutally honest example of mental illness and depression.

An incredible book

For those who are struggling with mental illness, for those who’ve lost someone or anyone who would like some insight as to how to see beautiful on the other side of a dark time. It’s a very good read. And so well written. I highly recommend for everyone to read this book.

Incredible book

Kayla is incredible and so full of the Holy Spirit! She has a beautiful way of writing and I’m so grateful she read her own audiobook! Thank you Kayla for sharing yours and Andrew’s story and reminding us that GODS GOT THIS!

Be prepared to cry

I was crying 5 minutes in. This hit very close to home. I did not lose my husband but I lost my ex husband, best friend and father of my child to suicide 7 months ago. I am a new believer and follower of Christ so it was extremely touching to hear this story from a woman of faith. I will be purchasing her other book as well.

MUST READ

The heart wrenching truth that is told in this story connects the reader immediately to the book. Kayla's voice is one of a kind. Her voice is so sweet it captivates the reader. This book will bring comfort and show people that God is always with us. He comforts and heals His children. God bless Kayla and her boys. Thank you Kayla for sharing your story.