The author has gotten a divorce, at her husband's instigation and after 25 years of marriage. Like any something + memoir, I'm sure it could go wrong if the balance was off, but I found that both elements of this book were well blended. Science memoirs are rapidly becoming one of my favorite genres. Summary: Fascinating science and engaging memoir, well blended! To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at. Lastly, there was a gem of discovery at the end of the book that I won’t spoil for you. She tried more exotic treatments MDMA (“party” drug ecstasy), LSD with a therapist, and good old-fashioned meditation. She spent time in the wilderness for a month. I was inspired by her thorough investigations of various treatments for depression, anxiety, and the 'blues 'of losing something as impactful as a marriage. I was fascinated to learn that blood work can show the impacts of emotions like loneliness. The author helped me understand that divorce isn't something to “get over” or “tough it out.” She was incredibly thorough in her research about the physiological effects of divorce. Evidently, there is a thing called 'heartsick.'Īs someone who has experienced a divorce, I know firsthand how difficult it can be.

After an unexpected divorce, she wanted to find out what was happening to her-both emotionally and psychologically, and physically. In her new book, Florence Wiliams explored the science behind heartbreak, grief, and rejection.

Florence williams books