Checking In: How Getting Real about Depression Saved My Life---and Can Save Yours

Written by Michelle Williams

Narrated by Michelle Williams

"I need help."

Those three words saved Grammy Award–winning singer Michelle Williams's life. After decades of sweeping her anxiety and depression under the rug--even during her years in the spotlight with Destiny's Child--Michelle found herself planning her own funeral. Realizing that she needed immediate help and could no longer battle her anxiety and depression alone, she checked herself into a treatment facility. When she came home, she was energized and determined to check in on a regular basis with herself, God, and others.

 Practical, engaging, and full of wisdom, Checking In will give you the tools you need to:

• Tear down the walls around your vulnerability that are hindering your healing
• Reject the lies of anxiety and depression and replace them with the truth of God's Word
• Trade toxic thought patterns for lasting joy
• Find freedom by forgiving yourself and others

An uplifting, behind-the-scenes look at one woman's path to healing, Checking In reminds you that you're not alone and that God is not yet finished writing your story.

Praise for Checking In:

"Michelle Williams is one of the bravest, strongest women I know. She has fought through very public struggles and dark, hidden days of depression. And now, in Checking In, she's putting it all out there for everyone to see. Her story is powerful and relatable, and she wants you to know that you are not alone. Healing is possible. And she's here to walk through it with you."

 --Sarah Jakes Roberts, founder of Woman Evolve, copastor of The Potter's House, and bestselling author of Woman Evolve

• Language: English
• Publisher: Thomas Nelson
• Release date: May 25, 2021
• ISBN: 9781400223350

Michelle Williams

MICHELLE WILLIAMS is a Grammy Award–winning recording artist who rose to stardom as a member of the R&B mega-group Destiny’s Child, considered one of the best female music groups of all time. Her four successful solo albums include Heart to Yours; Do You Know; Unexpected, which spawned the internationally charted single, “We Break the Dawn”; and Journey to Freedom, which featured groupmates Beyoncé and Kelly Rowland on the single, “Say Yes.” Also a talented actress, she debuted on Broadway in Aida then went on to star in productions of The Color Purple, Chicago, What My Husband Doesn’t Know, and Fela! Today, Michelle is passionate about raising awareness around mental health.

Reviews for Checking In

[chris royale · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Inspirational anecdotes and a fact based, conversional approach to mental health. I loved it ! Michelle you are amazing!

[merveille · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Amazing. This book came at just the right time, it's a transformative piece of work. Thankful to Michelle for sharing her story! It's a tool I’ll forever refer to because of all the golden nuggets! Absolutely beautiful, inspiring and life changing!

[Thamicha Toussaint · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This book felt like I was reading Michelle’s very own journal. She was real and raw about her shortcomings as it relates to relationships, friendships, and career . If you’ve ever dealt with depression while trying to balance your relationship with God, this book is a tearjerker. Listening to the audio felt like a long talk with your big sister giving you game.

[Kelly Izell · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

It contained so many instances of talking about God that I quit before the 4th chapter. We get it; you believe in a higher power. Now move on already.

[Nicole Miller · Rating: 1 out of 5 stars]

Totally boring. No real order . Glad it was free.

[Ijeoma Nnabuaku · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This woman has truly written a treasure for anyone that has struggled with that negative inner voice. This is definitely a book I would recommend. I laughed and I cried but feel more equipped on the other side.

[Muluwa Mzumara · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The transparency, vulnerability and goofiness make this a really relatable book. I have to say, it is filled with so many gateways to personal reflection and self awareness. When she narrates her story, it's easy to see yourself in it for the most part. It is definitely a great read that reminds us that healing is possible, no matter how tragic the life event(s). Simply amazing!

[DELORES COOPER · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Great Read for people with depression. I enjoyed listening to her story and got some insight for dealing with my issues.

[Lizz Montanez · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Beautifully written, it was courageous and filled with guidance to assist those who struggle with mental health.

[Angie · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This book was absolutely awesome. You are favorite Destiny Child I pray God blesses you abundantly love you your friend but not your friend Angie ???

[Tabitha Davis · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Great listen!!!
I felt like I was having a conversation with her!!
A transparent testimony can save lives!

[Damalie · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Wow Michelle! Thank you! So many of us have suffered imposter syndrome these past 2yrs, fear of the unknown, fear of walking into destiny, fear of the past mistakes cropping up! And look at God! He just comes right in to remind us that all is well! We are loved! Thank you fir sharing your story and being so vulnerable with us! Keep on fighting and praying for an amazing victory!

[Eileen · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Michelle is honest, funny, vulnerable, and a beacon of hope. Absolutely loved it. Can’t wait to see where her journey takes her and what she learns/how she grows next.
Oh, and the vocal performance is perfect. Definitely one to listen to.

[ryanjaymce · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This book is easy to follow and gives readers tools to enhance our lives in the name of Jesus. Michelle is brave, vulnerable, honest, goofy and tender. I read this book easily in 48 hours and the narration was top-tier!