They say we all have a book in us. Well, I am not sure I do, but my good friend Jonathan Kemp certainly has, recently publishing his first soul searching memoir that takes the reader on a journey through mental illness and neurodiversity with hard-won insight, resilience and wisdom.
Whether you suffer from mental illness or not, Jonathan’s book is a compelling read and resonates with me personally, as I have witnessed firsthand Jonathan’s up and downs as he has battled with his bipolar disorder in recent years, sharing a lot of what he has been going through during the course of our regular runs together around St James’ Park.
You only have to watch the news or read the newspaper to know that there is a growing mental health crisis in the UK today and Jonathan’s book helps to humanise mental health issues and provide a more informed and compassionate discussion around the topic.
As Jonathan says:
“I wrote this memoir to share my knowledge and help others who, like me, have faced challenges with mental health. My journey through the complexities of mental health – particularly bipolar disorder, depression, addiction and neurodiversity, specifically dyslexia – has been a profound experience that I hope can offer insights and support to others.
“This memoir is a candid exploration of my path, detailing the early signs of my struggles, the challenges of late-life diagnosis, and my ongoing quest to find balance. I share personal stories about navigating relationships, education and work while dealing with the ups and downs of these conditions.”
But this is more than an inspiring memoir as it offers practical strategies for managing mental illness, building emotional resilience and supporting others. Jonathan is courageously honest and proves that transformation is possible even when you are experiencing your darkest moments. This book is an indispensable resource for anyone seeking understanding and hope or are embarking on their own path to healing, providing practical strategies and tools for managing mental health and building emotional resilience.
Jonathan has lived with his bipolar disorder, depression, addiction and dyslexia for most of his life and tells us about his punk rock rebellion whilst at school, travelling to the other side of the world to become a rancher in Australia, his time in the Metropolitan Police and subsequent entrepreneurship where he created SmartWisdom over 25 years ago, which is a scientifically proven advanced note-taking technique that enhances focus, concentration, listening and comprehension. These are all skills especially crucial when you experience poor mental health or you are neurodivergent.
Finding Peace of Mind shares Jonathan’s experiences as he navigated life, relationships, his career challenges and quest for authentic identity, all with remarkable candour. It also includes a 10-step ‘emergency action plan’ as well as 14 ‘foundations for building a more balanced life’.
Having read the book, you will come away with a greater understanding and appreciation of how you can overcome adversity, transform your life and the importance of resilience, seeking professional help and the pursuit of inner peace and a fulfilling life.
Jonathan concludes by saying:
“I hope to transform my lifelong struggles into a beacon of hope, showing that even in our darkest times, the right help and support can lead to a fulfilling life. This book is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to overcome adversity and find purpose.
“I’ve struggled with my mental health for over 60 years and come close to ending my life several times. Here’s what saved me – and might save you too.”
As if writing this compelling book wasn’t enough, Jonathan is also embarking on 10-month walk across the UK and Ireland to raise money for four mental health charities to encourage open conversations about both mental health and neurodiversity.
On 1st January 2026, Jonathan sets off from the Shetland Islands to begin his 4,200 kilometre walk through Scotland, England, Wales and Ireland, rounding off his adventures in Galway in October.
During the course of his journey, Jonathan will be giving talks in workplaces, schools, organisations and community groups to share his experiences and discuss mental health, recovery and neurodiversity.
You can follow Jonathan’s progress on his website and make a donation to the charities on his GoFundMe page.
Published: 10th October 2025
ISBN: 978-183628-5 472 / eISBN: 978-183628-9 104
UK Price: £12.99 / £5.99 for ebook
Format: Paperback, ebook
Pages: 528 pages
Finding Peace of Mind – An Inspirational Journey Through Bipolar, Depression, Addiction and Dyslexia
By Jonathan Kemp
Published by Troubador Publishing
Finding Peace of Mind is available to buy on the Troubador Publishing website, from Amazon, Apple Books, Rakuten kobo, and to order at Waterstones and all good booksellers.
Author Bio:
Simon Burrell is a UK-based travel and motoring journalist and editor, a former member of The British Guild of Travel Writers and professional photographer.
Book cover image and photo courtesy of Troubador Publishing and Jonathan Kemp
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