About the Author

Wilma Cotten never imagined herself becoming an author. A former computer consultant with a background in technical writing, programmer specifications, and user manuals, she spent much of her professional life focused on clarity, structure, and understanding the needs of the reader.

Writing Is the Swing High or Low? became a deeply personal and therapeutic journey — one inspired by the life of her daughter Alisa and the family’s struggle with bipolar disorder and addiction.

As a single mother, Wilma witnessed firsthand the emotional devastation that mental illness can bring, not only to the individual suffering but also to the loved ones trying to help. Through her honest storytelling, she hopes to create greater awareness and compassion for those facing mental health challenges.

Wilma also shares her own experiences with depression, therapy, and healing. After years of emotional struggles, counseling, and treatment, she found renewed hope through modern therapeutic approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR.

Her mission is simple:
to encourage people to seek help without fear, to better understand mental illness, and to remind others that healing is possible.

This book is not just a memoir — it is a tribute to her daughter, a reflection of survival, and a message of hope for families everywhere.