The first phase of the global tour for ‘How Depression Saved My Life’, the Amazon bestselling memoir by award-winning media entrepreneur Chude Jideonwo, has concluded with sold-out gatherings across London, Manchester, Toronto, and New York City. In city after city, audiences filled the rooms even before the event days arrived, drawn by a story that speaks plainly about depression, faith, masculinity, and the courage it takes to reclaim joy. What unfolded across these stops was more than a literary tour, it became a series of powerful, human gatherings where readers encountered a story that gave language to struggles many had carried quietly for years.
Inside the rooms, the atmosphere was unmistakable. Through live readings from the memoir, moderated conversations, and candid audience reflections, the evenings moved easily between laughter and tears. Guests lingered long after the official sessions ended, lining up for book signings, sharing their own stories, and thanking Jideonwo for creating a space where vulnerability felt safe. One attendee captured the moment simply: “My first time being in a meeting and I felt vulnerable enough to share a bit of my story.”
Reflecting on the overwhelming response, Jideonwo expressed both surprise and gratitude. “My God, you people are busting my brain. How can we keep having full houses and sold-out events?” he said. “Thank you guys, thank you. It’s a movement for healing and joy, from the heart of Africa.” The tour stops were made possible through the support and collaboration of community partners and hosts, including Nigerians in New York, AfroDiaspora Colloquium, Power to Thrive UK, and Titi Akinsanmi, whose efforts helped bring together diverse audiences eager for meaningful conversation.
With these sold-out gatherings, the tour now officially concludes Phase 1 of its global journey. Phase 2 is set to begin at the end of March with new cities preparing to host the conversation. If the first leg of the tour has shown anything, it is that the story at the heart of ‘How Depression Saved My Life’ has struck a deep and universal chord, reminding audiences everywhere that healing often begins the moment we tell the truth.
“How Depression Saved My Life” is available in all Bookstores, Amazon, Kindle and you can get it on book.withchude.com
