The world sees the bloom. But only you know the weight of the roots.

In Two Sides of a Single Stem, Ja'Shaun Coley offers a raw, honest, and ultimately hopeful look at the mental health journey. Divided into 50 deeply personal essays, this collection navigates the complex landscape of the mind.

Using the life of a flower as a map, we explore:

• The Hidden Roots: The quiet, internal battles of depression and the echoes of the past.
• The Thorns: The sharp defense mechanisms and triggers that come with PTSD and anxiety.
• The Visible Bloom: The pressure of social expectations and the exhaustion of the "perfect" mask.
• Toward the Sun: The slow, beautiful process of therapy, resilience, and self-acceptance.

This is more than just a book about mental health; it is a companion for anyone who has ever felt like they are living two lives at once. It is a reminder that you don't have to hide your roots to be beautiful, and that healing begins the moment we accept every part of our single stem.