depression

Depression: A Stubborn Darkness--Light for the Path (VantagePoint Books)
$14.99
Many Amazon reviews fall into what I call the "Ravy Train." That is, the first reviewer raves about the book and everyone else follows. In the past I have purchased books with all rave reviews and have been disappointed.

I was honestly shocked at how practical and worthwhile Edward T. Welch's Depression: A Stubborn Darkness is. If you are a Christian and have suffered from depression, this is the book you've been searching for all your life.

You will find yourself somewhere in Welch's comprehensive study. He thoroughly covers the causes of depression, some of which will surprise you. His coverage of self-inflicted damage may hurt, but it is vital for clear thinking. Sometimes the truth does hurt, but running from it is never a solution.

Welch's spiritual guidance is rock-solid. These are answers that make sense, yet we know we must trust in Christ when we're unable to wring any sense out of the situation.

If I have any criticism of the book at all, it's that Welch is lukewarm on the use of medication. He acknowledges that it can help but warns against using it as a crutch. In many cases, depressed people have had their lives turned around by the proper medication.

But he's right. Ultimately our healing comes from Jesus Christ. Time and distance place no restrictions on God's healing power.

I wholeheartedly recommend this book. Read it, highlight it, then read it again. You'll be so glad you did.

Overcoming Depression One Step at a Time: The New Behavioral Activation Approach to Getting Your Life Back (New Harbinger Self-Help Workbook)
$21.95
Was recommened to me! Has to be one of the best tools I've ever used in dealing with depression. I would recommend it to anyone who wants to know more about depression.

Depression Fallout: The Impact of Depression on Couples and What You Can Do to Preserve the Bond
$13.99
Depression Fallout: The Impact of Depression on Couples and What You Can Do to Preserve the Bond

This book was an amazing discovery for me. It not only gives me the affirmation that I am not being selfish considering my well being, but the tools for making things better in my life. Living with a spouse that has suffered from depression for over two years, has not been an easy road to travel. The book is highly recommended by many therapists and readers alike.

Undoing Depression: What Therapy Doesn't Teach You and Medication Can't Give You
$15.99
I first read about this book in a news article on-line. I was skeptical as many things had not worked in the past. But I was at a point where I needed to do something to pull back from depression. This book started the process of recovery for me. The information in it was nothing less than a 'break-through' for me. It helped stop the continual, downward cycle. What impressed me (and convinced and assured me) the most was the depth of experience, personal and professional, the author brings to his writing.

The author helps us understand and diagnose depression. He reviews specific skills for dealing with it and then helps us put the skills to work. A HUGE insight to me was the author's statement that we 'get very good at being depressed'. His emphasis is on learning what behaviors make us good at depression and changing them. One must do the work of undoing the depression, and this book provides the tools to do the job. I will use it as a workbook and then as a reference for years to come.