Need some help

If you're planning on identifying the interviewees and using their words then you would need a release. Similar to the sort of release you would need for photographic models.

If it's just research and you're going to make up the words then no release would be necessary.

This is really a question for a publisher - will they accept a novel if it's based on interviews without releases? A lot of publishers may back off because they _might_ get legal action.

Depression

I have depression, but don't know how helpful I'll be. Feel free to PM me.

I don't think you need a release form to interview anyone. You don't even need a release form if you quote them. We're talking USA, aren't we? This is basic journalism.

I've interviewed a lot of people – public figures, private citizens, prison inmates, exotic dancers. Most people are happy to talk to you. Some will ask that you don't use their name, but if you did it wouldn't be illegal. Unethical, immoral and mean, but not illegal.

If you are using these folks for deep background, I have found that people are eager to talk. Most people don't get listened to and are happy to find someone – especially someone who is not a friend or relative – to listen to what they have to say.

I was a recovering alcoholic for several years.