Author Description

Broken but Breathing: "A True Story of Surviving Depression and Choosing Life" by Peyton Pen. What if survival isn't about being whole but about learning to breathe through the brokenness? In a world that praises strength and composure, where smiles are worn like masks and pain is hidden in plain sight, many of us are quietly drowning. Broken but Breathing is a raw and powerfully honest journey through the depths of depression told not by a professional therapist, but by a teacher, a woman, a human who lived through the storm, one breath at a time. In 2023, Peyton Pen found herself spiraling into the grip of depression. As a dedicated teacher, she suddenly doubted her purpose. Once full of energy and drive, she became a shadow in her own classroom. Beneath a composed surface, she was silently breaking, battling suicidal thoughts, and wondering if life was still worth living. But through support, reflection, faith, and relentless honesty, she began the long road to recovery. And now, she shares her truth not from a place of perfection, but from a place of strength found in survival. Broken but Breathing is more than a memoir. It's a hand held out to the broken. It's a voice that says, "You are not alone." And most of all, it's a testament that even in the most shattered moments, breathing means you're still in the fight and that is more than enough. What you will gain from reading this book: A deeply personal, relatable, and human account of depression from someone who lived it;not studied it. An honest exploration of what depression really feels like, beyond the textbook definitions. Practical and compassionate strategies for navigating the dark days and learning how to heal. Real insights into how depression affects different people including men, women, teenagers, and professionals like teachers. Courage to admit when you're not okay, and a roadmap for reaching out and finding help.