Katy Author Russell Harms Shares His Journey of Mental Health and Healing in 'Euphoric Misery'
For Russell Harms, life looked successful on the surface. A high-achieving career in hospitality, brushing shoulders with celebrities, and leadership roles in some of the nation’s top hotels—all signs of a life well-lived. But beneath the polished exterior, Harms was fighting a private battle with anxiety and depression that nearly consumed him.
Now, the Katy resident has turned his pain into purpose with his new book, Euphoric Misery, a raw and candid memoir that explores his journey through mental health struggles and his eventual path to healing. “I want people to know they’re not alone,” Harms said. “There were days when I thought I’d never feel better, but I’m here to tell others that there’s light at the end of the tunnel.”
A Journey Shaped by Hospitality and Humanity
Harms’ professional journey began by chance in Burnet, Texas, when he took a job as a bellman at just 18 years old. What started as a temporary gig during a gap year turned into a passion for hospitality, leading him to work at high-profile hotels across the country.
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“The industry taught me so much about people,” Harms shared. “Whether you’re serving a billionaire or a family that saved up for months to take a vacation, the goal is the same: treat everyone with kindness and genuine hospitality. That lesson shaped how I approach life and mental health. Struggles don’t discriminate—they touch everyone.”
Opening Up About Mental Health
For years, Harms kept his struggles with anxiety and depression hidden. Like many, he felt shame and fear of judgment. “I thought asking for help was a sign of weakness,” he admitted. “It wasn’t until I hit rock bottom that I realized the real courage is in seeking help.”
That turning point led Harms to therapy, though the journey wasn’t easy. His first therapist dismissed his struggles, telling him to simply “power through.” Despite the setback, he persisted, eventually finding the support and tools he needed to rebuild his life.
In Euphoric Misery, Harms doesn’t shy away from discussing the most difficult moments, including hospitalizations and even undergoing electroconvulsive therapy. “There’s no quick fix for mental health,” he said. “It’s a process of trial and error. But I hope sharing my story shows others that they’re not broken or alone. If I can make it through, so can they.”
Russell Harms (far left) with his teenage sons, his wife and their family dog. (Source: Russell Harms)The Power of Storytelling
Harms says the decision to write Euphoric Misery came from a desire to fill a gap he noticed while seeking help. “When I was in my darkest moments, I searched for stories from people like me—everyday people dealing with mental health challenges,” he explained. “All I found were stories from celebrities and athletes. I thought, ‘Where are the voices of regular people?’ That’s when I realized I could be that voice.”
The writing process was both cathartic and challenging. With guidance from his editor and dear friend, Rachel Havekost, Harms was able to shape his experiences into a narrative that resonates with readers. “The response has been overwhelming,” he said. “So many people have shared their own struggles with me after reading the book. It’s been humbling to realize how many people are carrying these burdens silently.”
Advocacy and a Vision for the Future
Harms isn’t stopping with the book. Recently invited to speak at a mental health conference in Chicago, he hopes to continue sharing his story on a broader platform. “I want to be a part of the movement to destigmatize mental health,” he said. “The more we talk about it, the less power the stigma has.”
He’s also exploring ideas for a second book, inspired by his two teenage sons. “I want them to grow up understanding that it’s okay to ask for help,” he said. “If sharing my story helps them or anyone else avoid the pain I went through, it’ll all be worth it.”
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A Message to Those Struggling
Harms’ ultimate goal is to inspire others to seek help and to show that recovery is possible. “There’s a saying: ‘Choose your hard,’” he said. “It’s hard to ask for help, but it’s even harder to live in pain forever. There are so many resources available now—whether it’s therapy, support groups, or apps like BetterHelp. You don’t have to go through it alone.”
As Harms continues his advocacy work, he remains deeply grateful for the support of his community in Katy and beyond. “The Katy, Fulshear, and Richmond communities are filled with resilient, heartfelt people,” he said. “If my book helps even one person feel less alone, then I’ve done what I set out to do.”
Where to Find Euphoric Misery
Euphoric Misery is available on Amazon, where it has already reached #1 in several new release categories. Harms is also active on social media under the handle Author Russell Harms, where he engages with readers and shares updates on his advocacy efforts.
Through his book and his outreach, Russell Harms is proving that even in the midst of life’s darkest moments, there’s hope, healing, and the power to help others.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
