South African author Amanda Buwa launched her debut book Bedroom Tears With My Therapist at the Mendi Arts Centre on Sunday afternoon.
Now 42 and raising a child of her own, Buwa’s upbringing was riddled with societal, mental and emotional challenges.
Growing up in a township where mental health was a taboo topic, the single mother said she saw the ripple effect in her 20s.
Buwa, who also found herself drowning in the cycle of alcoholism, shares her life experiences in her book, titled Bedroom Tears With My Therapist.
“I have gone through trials and tribulations that most girls in their 20s or even older are going through in their day-today life.
“Nonetheless, I remain a very positive, strong woman, who always believes in turning any negative situation into positivity,” Buwa said.
The writer further highlights the importance of therapy and the will to change one’s circumstances despite challenges.
“I also touch on the importance of seeking help to be able to transform to being a better individual, an individual who is mostly able to strive to be the best, and giving it all to remain positive.
“I know that in the black community it is seen as taboo to seek help and talk to a stranger about mental health,” she said.
Buwa said she wrote the book with the black community in mind and hoped to encourage parents to pay close attention to their children and create safe spaces for families to open up about their emotions.
