Bethany's Demise

This book can be read on it's own or as a part two to "Johnathan" by Elise Brooke and Richard Brooke, I co authored "Johnathan" with my late father after discovering the manuscript in house when he passed. "Bethany's Demise" is about Johnathan's mother and the impact of her life on not only Jonhathan but everyone around her and generations to come, including me her grand daughter. This book is set in the late 1930's early 1940s, I do not know the exact date as family who knew have long passed away.
This book is a creative non fiction story, it has essence of historical and true events but is a made up story. I wrote this book to shed light on the struggles of mental health, especially in the 1940s during the war and to give a glimpse of how Beth and many were treated. WARNING some scenes may be graphic and triggering to read, caution is advised! Bethany grew up in Yorkshire England, she had a wonderful upbringing, a loving environment and enjoyed a peaceful country lifestyle.
Beth fell in love with Tony a navy man, who quickly swept her off her feet. They married and had a family, creating a cozy tranquil life for all. War was announced, Tony left to fight for his country. Beth was alone with two boys to rear, she fought hard, struggle after struggle pulled her deeper and deeper down a rabbit hole. Beth developed a alcohol addiction and was admitted to hospital for what turned into years of treatment.
After her horrific experiences here Beth was never the same again, she was a completely different person. Her husband had not returned from the war, her family had left home, Beth began to rebuild her life. Did she make it and find her healing journey? or did she fall flat on her face once more? I'll let you find out, WARNING the end will shock you and caution is advised this scene was based on true events.
We have come along way since that era on how we treat mental health and addiction in the world and here in New Zealand my home. Still there is a lot more we could do, people are still suffering and falling though the cracks. I have had much experience with mental health challenges in my life, I struggled with alcohol and drug abuse at a young age, a family member became addicted to the needle and the love of my life.
Another family member was addicted to pills, many in my circle growing up abused alcohol and drugs I was surrounded with people carrying many diagnosed and undiagnosed mental health problems, some were good friends of mine, some were getting help and many spiraled out of control. My daughter nearly lost her life because of her mental state at the time, I am a ex mental health nurse who worked in the industry for over 18 years and I can tell you I have seen things not for the faint at heart.  I share my story to give hope to others and remind you, YOU ARE NOT ALONE.  You can read all about it in my story "The New Zealand Dream" trilogy.
I urge you if you are fighting with your mental health to reach out, and seek help, you are not alone.