The View is Worth It by Victoria Arlen Book Review

About the Book:

A television host and gold-medalist swimmer shares her previously untold story of moving beyond survival to true healing, offering hope and help for anyone battling the silent pain of mental health struggles.

Imagine appearing to have it all―a miraculous story of survival, a rewarding career as a TV host and reporter, multiple medal wins in swimming, and the opportunity to travel the world speaking―but silently wanting to end it all … and nearly succeeding. At the height of her success, Victoria Arlen found herself in a hopeless place she calls Rock-Bottomville. 

Behind the smile was a struggle few could see. Victoria could no longer outrun the anxiety, depression, PTSD, panic attacks, and suicidal thoughts pulling her down. She was known as the woman who―despite being written off as a lost cause―had emerged from a four-year vegetative state and survived. Then very quickly thrived. But the weight of being “the successful survivor” became too much. She spent a decade encouraging others not to give up, but she was slowly giving up on herself.

In this powerful book, Victoria speaks directly to the rising mental health crisis among younger adults, sharing helpful tools and powerful truths to remind us:

• Your story does not end in defeat. 
• You can find a purpose for the pain.
• There are blessings in the breakdowns.
• It’s okay to not be okay. 

As Victoria has discovered, the climb out of Rock-Bottomville is steep, but the view from a place of faith, hope, and healing is always worth it. 

My Review:

This is a powerful memoir including many insights on living life and maintaining mental wellness. Having survived paralysis as a young person, she still faces the reality of possible relapses. She writes here of experiencing anxiety and depression. She tells how she learned to identify the voices inside her, choosing victory. She shares techniques that worked for her as she mapped her way out of rock bottom to finally have a life of happiness and peace. She now recognizes her greater purpose in life from her experiences.

Arlen has overcome amazing obstacles in the past and faces possible relapses every day. Her encouragement and practical insights to overcome adversities are the fruit of her own experiences. This is a good book for anyone needing a powerful example of overcoming a debilitating situation. Arlen has included thoughtful questions and space to record personal responses. I recommend this book, with its realistic encouragement and proven techniques in being an over-comer.

My rating: 4/5 stars.

About the Author:

Victoria Arlen is an accomplished motivational speaker, TV host/reporter, author, gold-medalist swimmer, philanthropist. With her TV career spanning more than a decade and starting at the age of twenty while in a wheelchair, Victoria has achieved far more than ever imagined, especially after not being expected to live to 15 years old and facing obstacle after obstacle. Her achievements and story of survival have been recognized internationally and nationally, including by the prestigious Forbes 30 Under 30 list.

David C Cook, 224 pages.

I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent review.

(My star ratings: 5-I love it, 4-I like it, 3-It's OK, 2-I don't like it, 1-I hate it.)