A local author has released a new self-help book for anyone looking to improve their life. 

Carla O'Reilly, co-author of "The Smiling Mask: Truths About Post-Partum Depression and Parenthood" has recently released a brand new book, "T.U.R.N. O.N. T.H.E. S.W.I.T.C.H!" an inspirational read about finding a passion and pursuing it in your life.  

O'Reilly's journey as an author began after the birth of her son 15 years ago when she was struggling with postpartum depression.

Included in her new book are chapters numbered as "Tools" that are titled "Gratitude," "Recognize the power of your thoughts," and "Self-awareness, acceptance, forgiveness, and love," to name a few. 

"People are excited to hear about the message," said O'Reilly. "I wanted to provide a lot of hope and I want to raise awareness and let people know that they can overcome any mental illness."

O'Reilly said that in T.H.E. S.W.I.T.C.H! she's speaking to a broader audience, beyond the realm of post-partum depression, to anyone struggling with any form of mental illness. 

"I wanted to share my message with this new book, and hopefully help a lot of people." 

It hasn't always been easy. O'Reilly said that she struggled for years, and even states in her book that at one point, she "came very close to being a suicide statistic."

"It was definitely a huge struggle, I was diagnosed with postpartum psychosis, the most rare and severe form of PPD. We didn't know much about it." 

O'Reilly says that compared to 15 years ago, the attitudes and discourse around mental health and wellness have shifted greatly. She said she's seeing a broader acceptance and understanding of the seriousness of some mental illnesses. 

"I think there's been a lot of progress. I know especially with the work that I've been doing, speaking across Canada, people want to hear about hope, people want to hear how to get better, they want to hear how to heal, and that's the whole point of this book." 

For more information about post-partum depression, or to purchase a copy of O'Reilly's new book, please visit the www.thesmilingmask.com.