Kathy Cronkite

Kathy Cronkite, the daughter of legendary broadcast journalist and anchorman Walter Cronkite, is a renowned writer, journalist, and public speaker, with a focus on mental health advocacy. As one of the millions who suffer from clinical depression, her personal struggle inspired her to make a significant impact in the mental health field. Her journey from darkness to light led her to become an advocate for mental health, aiming to change the dialogue, educate others on healing and treatment, and eliminate the stigma associated with the illness.

Cronkite's discovery that many, including celebrities, suffered from the same debilitating disease, prompted her to write the highly-acclaimed "On the Edge of Darkness: Conversations About Conquering Depression," a collection of interviews with celebrities who have fought depression. Her second book, "On the Edge of the Spotlight: Celebrities’ Children Speak Out About Their Lives," specifically focuses on the struggles of celebrities' children. These works, among others, underscore her commitment to bringing attention to mental health issues facing various demographic groups, from the elderly to the youth.

Cronkite's advocacy extends beyond her books. She is a recipient of several awards, including the Texas Psychological Association's award for outstanding public contribution to psychology in 1999, the National Institute of Mental Health's D/ART Public Service award in 1994, and the William Styron Award from the National Mental Health Association in 1996. She has also been recognized with the Media Award from the Mental Health Association of Austin in 1987 and 1996. Her involvement includes serving on the advisory board of grant reviews for the National Institute of Mental Health and participating in the Communications Workgroup and the Bridging Science and Services Workgroup. These roles highlight her efforts to convey a message of hope and understanding to healthcare professionals and the wider public through her engaging and informative speaking style.

Speaking at conferences and events, Cronkite enlivens her presentations with compassion, humor, and honesty. Known for her conviction born of experience, she emphasizes that "Getting well is your first priority. Depression is very treatable. There is help; there is hope." Her speeches often include personal insights and are praised for their impact on both professionals and those affected by mental health issues, driving her ongoing mission to enhance understanding and support for all individuals battling depression.