Contact: Abigail Davidson, Publicist, WinePress Group, 360-802-9758, abigail@winepressgroup.com

ENUMCLAW, Wash., Aug. 17 /Christian Newswire/ -- The tragedy of mental illness extends much further than the tragedies in daily headlines with mental illness at their core.

Disruptive medical conditions affecting thinking, feeling, mood, ability to relate to others, and daily functioning impact an estimated one in five families in America, reports the National Alliance on Mental Issues (NAMI). The World Health Organization predicts that by 2020 the leading cause of disability in women and children will be major depressive disorder.

Evelyn Geisler, a pharmacist and certified diabetes educator, has personal knowledge of mental illness. She and her parents have experienced depression; her husband experienced a nervous breakdown. "I believe we are put here to help each other," Geisler says of her new book, "Touched by God: A Devotional for People with Mental Illness and Their Families" (WinePress Publishing, 2009). "I hope my devotionals can help others in some small way."

"Touched by God" blends practical advice with confidence in God's abiding love and care. The book's 31 short devotionals are based on the real-life experiences of people who have faced the difficulties of mental illness.

Geisler encourages those battling mental illness to persevere. "There is definitely light at the end of the tunnel," she says. "Find the right doctor, medication, and counseling. Lean on the Lord, who loves you unconditionally. You can deal with your illness successfully and be able to give back."

Families and friends can use the book to learn what is helpful to those dealing with mental illness. "Learn all you can about the disease," Geisler advises. "Know that God is definitely with you and will give you the strength you need."

Geisler lives in Tehachapi, California, with her husband. They have three grown children and two grandchildren.

For more information, to request a review copy or to schedule an interview, please contact Abigail Davidson by phone at 360-802-9758, by email at abigail@winepressgroup.com, or by fax at 360-802-9992. To purchase a copy of this book visit www.winepressbooks.com or call 877-421-7323.