Troubled thoughts and anxiety are symptoms of “the sickness” in “The Program,” a novel by Suzanne Young that follows Sloane Barstow, a 17-year-old teenager who lives in a world where teen suicide is at epidemic proportions.

Since Sloane’s older brother Brady committed suicide, she has been depressed. Struggling with suicidal thoughts herself, Sloane finds herself in a whirlpool of uncertainty. She often wonders if she can survive.

The only known treatment for depression is The Program. No matter how much pain she is in, however, Sloane knows better than to seek its help.

Everyone who’s been through The Program comes back “cured.” While their depression is gone, so are their memories.

The corrupt hands of The Program reach throughout the nation, with schools proctoring daily psychological exams and sealing windows shut to prevent jumpers. Brainwashed parents send their children for treatment without a second thought.  

Sloane’s boyfriend James is the only person she trusts since he has always been at her side. With a love as strong as theirs, James and Sloane are convinced they can survive anything.

Or so they thought.

When Sloane and James’ good friend Miller succumbs to the sickness, James loses his composure and begins to show suicidal behavior. Despite Sloane’s attempts to help him, James is detained and admitted to the Program.

With her only support gone, Sloane falls deep into her depression and before long she too becomes a patient.

Fighting against the system that she resisted for years, Sloane must survive the chains of treatment, all while helplessly holding onto her memories and searching for James.

“The Program” shines a new light on a taboo subject that many are afraid to write about. Suspenseful and bold, the novel is realistic. Lovable characters and a heart-warming romance will entice readers to fall in love with the book.

“The Program” is recommended for teens 14 and older due to mature themes and content, moments of sensuality and violence.