Endometriosis: From Harm to Hope, is a book written by Casey Berna set to be released in March of 2026 through Sheldon Press. This book is a culmination of Casey’s work in the endometriosis, infertility, pregnancy loss and chronic illness communities as a social worker and patient herself.
This is what Heather Guidone, BCPA, longtime patient advocate and endometriosis right’s champion has to say about Casey’s upcoming book:
Endometriosis: From Harm to Hope by Casey Berna, LCSWA
Casey Berna's 'From Harm to Hope' is the long-overdue resource that finally bridges the gap between professional insights and lived experience in the endometriosis space. Written with the authority of a leading mental health professional combined with the compassion and empathy of someone who has walked the difficult path herself, Berna’s book stands out as a uniquely validating and practical guide for those navigating the complex realities of life with endometriosis. Unlike other books that focus narrowly on medical management or serve solely as personal memoirs, From Harm to Hope takes a comprehensive, multidimensional approach - offering real, tangible tools not only to better understand the disease and obtain the best care for symptom management but importantly, for navigating the emotional and psychological toll of endometriosis. Berna excels at making complex psychological and medical concepts accessible without being condescending, providing readers with strategies that feel actionable rather than overwhelming through a relatable lens.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its focus on harm reduction, a topic largely overlooked in other endometriosis literature. The author provides clear, professional yet lay-friendly advice on how to work effectively with doctors, including how to advocate for yourself in medical settings and push back against dismissive or harmful care. She explores practical mental health strategies that go beyond surface-level positivity, offering genuine coping mechanisms for the anxiety, depression, and trauma so often intertwined with endometriosis. The book acknowledges the strain endometriosis places on relationships, from partners to family members, and provides guidance on setting boundaries and finding support. Berna helps readers identify supportive care while validating the complexities of chronic pain and health, ensuring that the path toward healing is both informed and sustainable.
As an advocate, Berna’s unflinching critique of the systemic failures surrounding endometriosis care also unabashedly addresses the pervasive medical gaslighting, trauma, and medical narcissism that many endometriosis patients encounter. Rather than placing the burden on the patient to endure or navigate the failures, she calls out the structural issues within the medical establishment that perpetuate harm. This critique is long overdue across a landscape where patient experiences are too often invalidated or softened to avoid alienating the medical community. The author does not just name the problems, she also offers professional but accessible ways for patients to empower themselves, providing readers with the language and confidence to push back against harmful medical dynamics.
Casey's work in the global endometriosis community has always stood out for her attention to the intersectionality of endometriosis, and her book takes those efforts even further. She highlights the compounded barriers faced by marginalized communities, including women of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those with limited financial resources. Unlike too many other resources in various health communities, her advocacy is not performative; she provides concrete advice on how to access care, find supportive outlets, and push for systemic change even in the face of institutional bias. Berna’s ability to address these complex issues without losing sight of the human experience makes this book an essential resource for those whose voices are often ignored in the broader conversation. Berna has also managed to strike the delicate balance between empowerment and acknowledgment; she does not push unrealistic notions of resilience or suggest that mindset alone can overcome the profound challenges faced by too many with endometriosis. Instead, she validates the difficulty of the journey while offering readers tools to regain a sense of agency and control.
Endometriosis: From Harm is honest, vulnerable, and realistic. This book will serve as more than just a guide - it is a lifeline. Berna’s expertise as both a mental health professional and leading disease advocate shines through in every chapter, making the book an essential read for anyone with endometriosis or supporting someone who lives with it, as well as fellow practitioners who may treat those with the disease. In a field saturated with mere clinical analysis or overly simplistic self-help rhetoric, Berna’s work is refreshingly and deeply compassionate and genuinely useful. This is the book the endometriosis community has needed for far too long.
Heather Guidone, BCPA
Surgical Program Director
Center for Endometriosis Care