An Impossible Life

Award-winning memoir An Impossible Life tells the powerful true account of one woman's descent into depressive and manic episodes—and how she found life-saving therapy and medication to overcome and triumph.

"The writing is gorgeous…a page-turning story that is filled with strong lessons on healing." The Book Commentary

"A fascinating glimpse into the mind of one suffering from bipolar disorder." U.S. Review of Books

When thirty-five-year-old Sonja Wasden is involuntarily admitted to a psychiatric hospital by her husband and father, she is certain it must be a mistake. Wife of a CEO, mother of three, and living in a beautiful suburb, Sonja's life appears ideal. How did she get here?

In this gripping and deeply personal narrative, Sonja reveals her delusions and battles with mental illness, making the reader feel as though they are listening in on a private conversation. When all hope seems lost, her true story of perseverance becomes both inspiring and unforgettable. Readers will walk away with a greater understanding of the challenges faced by those who struggle with mental health conditions.

An Impossible Life is more than a memoir—it is a beacon of hope for those facing the overwhelming reality of mental illness, whether for themselves or someone they love.

"A riveting memoir well worth reading." Readers' Favorite

"This story is one of my most sacred and special I've ever done." Dr. Tara Narula, CBS This Morning Correspondent

Sonja is a suicide survivor with over 35 years of lived experience with mental health challenges. She is a mental health advocate, keynote speaker, and author. Her memoir, An Impossible Life, is a best seller and Eric Hoffer Grand Prize Winner. Sonja's mental health advocacy work includes drug addiction recovery programs, homeless shelters, firefighters, police officers, veterans, women's prisons, students, and others. Oprah Winfrey graciously participated virtually in one of Sonja's mental health book clubs discussions to inspire the women inmates at Central California Women's Facility, the world's largest women's prison.Sonja is a member of Newsweek Expert Forum and a TEDX speaker. She has been interviewed in across all 50 states on local and national news, including CBS This Morning, about her personal struggles and triumph with mental illness Sonja has traveled the country speaking with Fortune 500 companies, not-for-profit organizations, government officials, advocacy groups, and others about the importance of mental health. She has been an op-ed contributor in such publications as HuffPost, The Washington Post, The Hill, Ms. Magazine, Kevin M.D., NAMI (National Alliance Mental Illness), Oprah Daily, and others. She is passionate about helping individuals and organizations create open and inclusive conversations around mental health. Sonja has had the privilege of sharing her story and message of hope with millions of people.

Rachael Siddoway is an award-winning and best-selling author. Her first book, An Impossible Life, is an Eric Hoffer Grand Prize Winner. Rachael has been interviewed across all 50 states on local and national news, including CBS This Morning and The Tamron Hall Show. She was invited to give a TEDX talk in HartlandHill. She has traveled the country speaking with organizations, mental health advocacy groups, government officials, and media outlets about her family's personal experiences with mental health struggles and about the stigmas that surround mental illness. Rachael is an author, keynote speaker, and mental health advocate.