Abbie Werner shared the following backstory: 

My heart is full and deeply grateful to share that I'm releasing “If Healing Is Real,” a song that began with my inner turmoil in middle/high school and now represents the recovery journey Jesus has walked with me on for the past 14 years.

My friend, Kelsey Sharpe, was giving me guitar lessons in high school, and one day I came with this song idea. She helped me find the chords and develop the song, and in that season she taught me what a verse, chorus, and bridge were in songwriting. Without knowing it, she gave me tools and structure to express my big feelings, prayers, and questions to Jesus through art. 
Even though I was still shy to sing, singing and writing were a significant step forward after having entirely stopped singing in 7th/8th grade. Music and creativity became places where I felt safe again and felt the love, comfort, and delight of God.

It’s a blessing to finally share this song as a witness to the healing Jesus has been bringing in my life over many years and the ways He has never given up on me. There were many times when I wanted to give up, but You, Lord, nourished me with exactly what I needed and held my hand. And I know that’s how I’ll continue depending on You, through the good and hard things.

=== Press Release ===

Nashville, TN – Abbie Werner, the singer-songwriter known for her heartfelt and introspective music, just released her latest single, “If Healing Is Real,” on September 27, 2024. This deeply personal song explores the complexities of mental health, recovery, and the unwavering hope found in faith.

“If Healing Is Real” is not just a song; it’s a testimony of Abbie’s journey through mental illness, recovery, and the transformative power of professional help intertwined with her faith in Jesus. Written during her high school years, the lyrics encapsulate her struggles with anorexia, OCD, and self-harm, alongside the profound question: “If there’s a chance you can recover and be happy, healthy, and connected, don’t you want to stick around for that?”

Accompanying the single is a music video, directed and edited by Abbie as part of her master’s capstone project at Asbury University, with Sarah Hogencamp advising. The video features dancer Millie Rockman, whose movement beautifully illustrates the themes of vulnerability and resilience woven throughout the song. “I had been dreaming about collaborating with dancers for years,” Abbie shares. “Working with Millie was a beautiful experience that in itself brought a lot of healing and inspiration.”

In the song, Abbie reflects on the nonlinear path of healing, emphasizing that while the journey can be filled with setbacks, there is hope and joy to be found. “Hopelessness is a feeling, not a truth,” she states, dedicating this release to anyone who has faced deep despair. “You’re not as alone as you think. Things can and will get better.”

As September marks Suicide Prevention Month, Abbie is especially eager to share her story. “This song is a reminder that no matter the situation, God sees and knows our pain. He weeps with us and longs for us to invite Him into the mess. In my own life, I have seen how He gives me the strength and grace I need each day, and it has been through that dependency that I have gotten to experience Jesus’ love at a deeper level,” she shares.

The single was produced by Valentin Tranca, who helped shape the sound and emotional depth of the song. “I’m grateful for his vision in bringing this piece to life,” Abbie adds.

“If Healing Is Real” encapsulates the essence of Abbie’s journey—one filled with struggles but also profound moments of grace, hope, and transformation. As she continues to navigate her mental health journey, Abbie’s music serves as a beacon of hope for others who may feel lost.