A Relentless Hope

Read an interview with Gary here.



"The voices of father, pastor, and counselor are all well represented by this writer. The personal and professional commitment of A Relentless Hope brings enormous credibility to its message. This book is a work of love about the power of love. And that, in itself, is healing."

--Ruth Harper in Counseling Today, a publication of the American Counseling Association



Read a mom's review here.



"Nelson provides a lot of detail and vivid stories that illustrate how depression can take over a teen's life and affect the whole family. I thought his advice for parents was sound and sensible. . . . He does a great job of offering ways to support your teen, collaborate on fighting the depression, and not put too much pressure on the depressed teen. He also offers a very balanced description of possible treatments,including medication and therapy. . . . There is a big focus on 'keep loving them' and seeing the teen as a whole person who, despite their depression, is still worthy of love and respect.

I will definitely recommend this book to my teen patients and particularly to parents of teens who want to learn more about teen depression."

--An anonymous clinical psychologist, for Families for Depression Awareness



"Gary Nelson's conversational style wraps a deep understanding of depression and its treatment in a gripping first-person story of love casting out fear. All parents, and all who seek to help parents, would benefit from this book."

--Doug Thorpe, Journeys, a publication of the American Association of Pastoral Counselors



"I highly recommend this book and the insights it sheds on an illness that impacts so many of our young people and their families. A Relentless Hope offers a light to those that struggle with the storms and illnesses of today. It also provides much needed information for those suffering from depression, anxiety and its related mental health issues."

--David E. McLean, United Methodist Endorsing Agency (Read the full review here.)



"Whether you are a youth struggling with depression, a family member of a depressed teen, or a pastor, counselor or teacher providing support and help in such circumstances, this book is a must read as the most informative and helpful volume available on the subject."

--Merle R. Jordan, Professor of Pastoral Psychology Emeritus, Boston University School of Theology



"This story of a family is an incredible gift of honest reflection. So many families deal with the issue of teen depression. . . As the dean of a theological school I am aware of the numbers of youth that my students deal with who are in this book. Depression, self-medication with alcohol and drugs, self doubt and even considerations of suicide as an answer--all are in our communities and probably in even a small church. This book is about an attitude that avoids denial, attempts to keep a sense of humor, and believes in the miracle of life. Thank you, Tom, for allowing your story to be told."

--Maxine Clarke Beach, Vice President and Dean, Drew Theological School



"This is a story of amazing grace! I love the challenge Gary gave the reader throughout the book: 'Never give up on loving!' I was reminded in a very tangible way of the limitless capacity of God who loves us the same way--He never stops! What an incredible mantra for all of us: 'Never give up on loving. . . . Never!' I wonder how different our world would be if we practiced this command?"

--Rev. Dale Seley, Pastor, Downtown Baptist Church, Alexandria, Virginia