Fear Gone Wild

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

By: Kayla Stoecklein, Lysa TerKeurst - introduction

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 thirty. 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.

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!