Palmetto Publishing has released Innermost Moods, a new collection of confessional poetry by Mary S. Sabol, which explores themes of trauma, depression, and survival. Published on September 15, 2026, in Charleston, S.C., the book draws from Sabol's personal experiences with trauma and mental health struggles, addressing topics that many individuals face but often do not discuss openly.
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The poems in Innermost Moods depict a difficult childhood filled with cruelty and neglect, the experience of moving through multiple foster homes, and the challenges of independence at the age of sixteen. Sabol addresses difficult subjects like dissociation, intrusive thoughts, and a poignant moment of crisis while sitting in a parked car, showcasing her raw emotional journey.
Sabol's work engages directly with the tension between silence and disclosure, challenging the stigma around mental illness and highlighting how diagnoses such as bipolar disorder and PTSD can lead to feelings of isolation. Each piece in the collection illustrates the struggle to choose life when hope feels elusive and emphasizes the importance of voicing one's experiences.
Sabol expresses her intention clearly: "By sharing my darkest moments through poetry, I hope to offer comfort to others who may be experiencing similar struggles. My intention is to let readers know that they are not alone in their journey. There is solace to be found in connecting with others who understand, and together, we can find strength in our shared experiences."
The collection enters a growing market of confessional poetry focused on mental health, appealing to readers familiar with works like Rupi Kaur's Milk and Honey and the spoken word poetry of Sabrina Benaim. With ongoing national discussions about mental health and suicide prevention, Innermost Moods targets adults aged twenty-five to fifty-five, providing validation and resonance for those seeking commonality in their lived experiences.