Ned Vizzini was an American author known for his candid exploration of mental health themes in his works, including the young adult novel "It's Kind of a Funny Story." This novel, published in 2006, draws on Vizzini's own experiences with depression and suicidal thoughts, depicting the life of a teenager who checks himself into a psychiatric hospital. Through humor and relatable storytelling, Vizzini sheds light on the struggles faced by many young people today.