The Inherited Mind

“James Longman trains his considerable journalistic skills on unravelling the mystery of what happened to his dad. It is an insightful tale of loss and love, and an eye-opening account of mental illness and a son’s quest to understand his past and himself.” —Anderson Cooper “Mental illness and suicide have a ripple effect on relatives that often goes unnoticed. The questions, the fear of history repeating itself, and the opportunity to practice preventive health are daily issues that can at once feel like a blessing and a curse. In The Inherited Mind, James Longman uses both his personal and professional voice to shine a light on a topic that is often shrouded in darkness.”    —Dr. Jennifer Ashton “Vivid, gripping, and deeply researched, Longman tells the story of his family tragedy with courage, sensitivity, and grace—the same qualities that make him an exceptional broadcast journalist.”  —Clarissa Ward “James Longman has a unique ability to bravely step into the throes of danger, trauma, and suffering . . . shining a light on the human condition around the globe as a foreign correspondent. Now, my friend and ABC News colleague is bravely turning that light on his own life, revealing deep and difficult truths about his family’s mental health history. I have long admired James’s gift for storytelling. I’m convinced that he will make others feel less alone and more hopeful with his raw honesty and revelations about how science can play a major role in breaking family cycles of pain. Bravo, James. This may be your most important assignment to date.” —Deborah Roberts