Thoughts on Motherhood, Mental Health & Moving On

In honor of Mother’s Day and Mental Health Awareness Month, the Goleta Library is pleased to announce that on Sunday, May 22, from 3-4 p.m., the library will host local author Valerie Cantella for a special event, Conversation with an Author: Thoughts on Motherhood, Mental Health, and moving forward when life goes Off-Script.

In this interview-style program, Ms. Cantella will share about the experiences which led her to write Off-Script: a mom’s journey through adoption, a husband’s alcoholism, and special needs parenting. Join this honest and authentic conversation about thought-provoking topics followed by Q&A.

Goleta Library Director Allison Gray said, “We’re thrilled to be able to gather in person again and to offer this program to our community. With the widespread impacts of the pandemic on mental health, we’re pleased to be able to raise awareness and bring attention to this important topic, particularly through one of our local authors.”

Ms. Cantella said, “I wrote this memoir to help others find hope in parenting children struggling with mental health, special needs, and substance abuse. The journey can be isolating, lonely, and shame-inducing, and I want to show others they can get through the tough times.”

Goletans may know Ms. Cantella through her work as the former Public Information Officer for the City of Goleta and her service on the Goleta School Board. She is passionate about helping others and is blessed to call Goleta home.

The paperback of Off-Script is available to borrow from the Goleta Library, and copies will be available for purchase and signing on May 22 for $14. Learn more at valeriecantella.com.