Depression Books

I have lived with the diagnosis of depression for five years, but not until a recent major depressive episode hit did I seriously start looking for books to help me understand what was going on. I am so thrilled I found this book first. From reading this book, I have a much deeper understanding of the biological origins of my disorder, as well as the symptoms to watch out for. I especially appreciate the attention Dr. Quinn gives to "atypical" symptoms and bi-polar disorders; I suspect I had been depressed for years, but because my symptoms don't fit the usual criteria, it went unrecognized for far too long.

Dr. Quinn also is to be commended for striking the right balance between helping people with mood disorders and their families understand that their symptoms are not their fault and that they are not "weak" for not being able to "snap out of it," while still explaining concrete steps patients and their families can take to alleviate symptoms and stay well as best they can. It is hard for most people who have never experienced depression how difficult it is to convince yourself that you are a worthy, competent person, that people love and care about you, that the world is a good place to be in, when the illness is at its worst, and all you can see is the dark pit of despair. Dr. Quinn gives people in such states real hope; rather than spouting out meaningless phrases of "you're an okay person" or "people love you" when people who are seriously depressed CANNOT believe it, he explains how medicine, therapy, and alternative treatments can help them get out of that pit so they CAN believe they are worthy people deserving of love.

While I am a "traditionalist" in my medical thinking, and I have no problem with taking pills to help my symptoms improve, I was glad to see that Dr. Quinn gave plenty of space to alternative treatments, and did so without either touting them as cure-alls or cutting them down. In fact, some of the suggestions in the alternative treatment section are helpful even for those who are comfortable taking medications for their mood disorders.

This book should be required reading, not just for those who have a mood disorder, but by their families and friends. It will help families and friends understand what is going on with their loved ones, what is and what is not under their loved ones' control, and signs they can look for when their loved ones need help.

Finally, a book that deals with depression as the serious biologically based health problem that it is without all the moralizing and "just snap out of it" ignorance found in so many popular books on the subject. Contains an excellent critique of the Cognative Therapy theory which insists that you can think your way out of a serious depressive illness. Includes a tremendous amount of up to the minute scientific information on depression, its causes and treatmenst, and what to do if you or someone you love is in danger of suicide. One of the best books I have read on the subject.

I am the webowner of Bipolar Disorder Today and I learned a great deal from this book. It includes up to date information on unipolar depression *and* bipolar disorder - treatment, psychotherapy, medication, and discusses these disorders in detail.

I recommend this book not only for consumers but for families and clinicians as well.

I strongly, strongly recommend this book to people who have concerns or questions about depression. This book begins by explaining the difference between sadness and a depressive illness. It explains what symptoms are part of "normal" grief or sadness as opposed to symptoms that are part of the physical illness of depression. The book then explains that depression is not a mental illness, but a physical illness that can be treated with medication and psychotherapy. It takes the reader through the difference treatment approaches and evaluates each approach. It also addresses the fact that most people hate the idea of taking medication and addresses those concerns. I found the writing style very honest and informative. Best of all, at no point is this book touchy-feely. I never got the sense that someone was patting me on the head, saying "it's going to be ok" or giving me "meaningful quotes for the day".

One thing I would like to make clear is that the book is directed only to people suffering from depressive episodes. If you don't know if you are suffering from grief or depression, then it will be useful. But if you are trying to deal with grief, I would look for grief counseling books first and then come back to this one if the grief counseling books don't help you.

Kathy Oddenino's book, "Depression, Our Normal Transitional Emotions," validated for me what I've been experiencing off and on for years. Me depressed? Of course not! Wow, what an eye-opener to realize that I had been!

Kathy explains in simple, easy-to-understand language, what is going on on a global as well as personal basis with depression and relates how it is part of the evolution of our soul and spirit. It made me feel much better about myself, less judgmental, and more unconditionally loving of myself so that I could learn my way through my depression.

This is a book truly worth reading over and over in order to get whatever you may have missed before! Thanks so much, Kathy, for the love that guided you to write this book.

What a wonderful book! I have read this 5 times and it has been a completely different book with each reading. The author guides the reader to examine behaviours,thoughts and emotions and to relate them to experiences so gentley that it left this reader with a sense of excitment to discover and understand more. This is a must read for anyone working as a therapist and it would be a great help for massage therapists in helping them understand the energy fields produced by the mind and the emotions.

After many years of working with people and recognising that our emotions and our bodies are reflective of each other, I have finally found an author who expands on this. This book is the most uplifting book on the subject of depression. It is truly a delight to read. Kathy takes us through the different levels of depression, from unhappiness through to hopelessness so gently that we feel te truth when she says, "No one escapes depression, not a single, solitary person, because depression is the begining of our awakening to a higher level of consciousness." Not only are the symptoms of depression explained but the reason for them are also outlined in a clear and decisive manner. This is followed by a wonderful chapter on the healing of depression and the acceptance of change. This body of teachings by Oddenino gives us tools to expand our consciousness levels, thereby allowing us to be more effective in our interaction with others. This is a 'must read' book for anyone working as a therapist of mind and of body.

Depression: Our Normal Transitional Emotions is Kathy Oddenino's sixth book. I have read all six--all more than once, which is rare in my long history of book-reading. When I read Depression I felt more and more excited as I progressed through the book. I began to understand the accumulation of emotions and feelings within my life just as I felt my excitement growing as I read. The author defines the soul and explains in language I felt within my heart, just as clearly as I saw the words on the page, the transition of our emotions from fear to love as we evolve as a consciousness. I have read a lot of books in my 35 years, and until now I have never found one which defines the soul and spirit and spirituality in a logical, sensory way which excites me as I relate the knowledge to my life. When I read in Kathy's dedication, "this book is dedicated to the millions of people who innocently suffer the emotional and mental pains of unhappiness, sadness, and depression without knowing why," I know I am only one of those millions. Are you? Read this book.

Any history book by Kevin Starr is worth reading. I'm working my way through all of them. He is the greatest California historian ever!

I finally got around to reading "The Grapes of Wrath" and was ashamed to realize that the context of the story was all new to me. Right about then, Kevin Starr's book came out and was reviewed in my local paper. He's done a great, steady job of illuminating the rise of the unions and the treatment of the Okies. The only major flaw I found was the lack of a map of California included in the book. I'm from the east coast and found it difficult to keep the place names straight without a ready reference.

Kevin Starr's continuing work on the history of California since 1850 continues to impress me and fill me with interesting and useful knowledge about the state. Being a resident of the state, it is relatively easy for me to keep following the thread and the meaning of names and locations. I can imagine this would be somewhat more difficult for readers not as familiar with our state. The story of the waterfront strikes in San Francisco and the farming/migrant/labor issues of the 1930s are very compelling and should be easily understood by readers regardless of where they are from. The issues dealing with our water supply and other water management issues as well as those dealing with large public works within the state, can pose a bigger challenge for those readers.

As with his other volumes, Mr. Starr doesn't just give us straight-ahead, factual history. In my view, he is especially good at giving incidental stories about some of the players involved in a way that keeps the reader more interested. Immediately after finishing the book I went to the internet to find out more about people like photographer Dorothea Lange and the 1939 Golden Gate International Exposition. That is what I ask of books like these: that they teach me about things I don't know much about and that they cause me to follow up and learn more about some of the topics within the book.

One learns reading this particular volume that the current quirkiness of California (governor recalls, liberalism, social diversity) is not something that just developed in the 1970s. We had recall movements back in the 1930s as well and some ugliness comes through regarding racism and discrimination in this state that sometimes thinks so highly of itself in that area. It is truly shameful how we discriminated against all migrant workers, whether of color or the Oakies that came to us from the Dust Bowl. The stories of abuse of power by the police and other government entities were very interesting.

I would love to have every Californian---especially our politicians---read Mr. Starr's work. Most history is slow to read, and this is no exception, but the amounts of knowledge one will get about California, make it worth the while.

This fourth chapter in Starr's "Americans and the California Dream" is the best yet. I was paticularly interested, in what Starr sees as the States battle between the forces of communism and fascism. The text reads like an account of a some great war, following each battle and skirmish throughout the State. I would recommend this work to anyone who is seriously interested in California or Labor history.

This is a beautiful book. Mr. Florence out-did himself with this one! It is so easy to read, is laid out so beautifully, the information is complete and the photography is outstanding. I respect Gene Florence's expertise and would make this my "Bible" for information on Elegant Glassware.

I found this book very interesting and was able to identify glassware not found in other books. Great for reference, good pictures and more glass makers.
Great Book.

I was already familiar with the publication, so I knew what to expect. That's why I purchased it.

This book is a little large to be carrying around, however I still do carry it to places that I already know will have the pattern I am looking for.
The forward describes "Elegant" glassware as handmade and acid etched glassware that was sold by department and jewelry stores during the Depression era through the 1950's, differentiating it from the dime store and giveaway glass that has become known as Depression glass. The word "Elegant" has become "official" nomenclature among today's dealers for designating handmade glass.
It is well organized with the glass patterns in alphabetical order and the prices in columns by color of glass. Most of the pictures are color and have good enough definition to identify what you are looking at. There are a contents by pattern and a contents by company.

This book provided an excellent overview, in non-clinical terms, of depression. In addition to the explanation of causes of depression, the book provides extremely practical advice about how to help yourself or family members or friends who may be depressed. The author's common sense talk and use of humor help the reader understand and address a topic of great importance.

For what can be such a heavy subject, the author makes this book about depression an enjoyable read. I enjoy the author's light and understandable style. I can relate to how she explains depression and consider myself now a more tolerant person with the people in my circle that have to manage their depression. Thanks for enlightening me, Karen Brees!

This is the right book for the layperson to understand and deal with depression. It provides a full spectrum of information simply and clearly, first explaining what depression is and the types of depression, then covering how to seek help that you or a loved one needs. In addition to the latest information on medical treatment, the author evaluates alternative therapies such as acupuncture and yoga and explains what habits and conditions intensify depression. Dr. Brees includes information on diet, exercise, biofeedback, work issues, coping strategies, counseling. One chapter covers how to deal with depression in someone you are close to. It is a must read!

What a great book! Dr. Brees helps us all (professionals or laypersons) develop a greater understanding of depression. She simplifies even the most complex medical concepts and provides action guidelines for those suffering from depression and those living with others who suffer from this disease. The book is structured in a comprehensible way that highlights facts, important questions and essential information related to depression. This book is a MUST READ for anyone wanting to learn more about the "many faces" of depression.

Dr. Linda Stroh

Psychologist Dan Montgomery has the chutzpa to say what's on many people's minds today. When you limit your faith solely to what a particular church or denomination has to offer, you miss out on the rest of your adventure with God. I read this book in one sitting and placed it on my bedside table for many thoughtful returns. Material about the Self Compass was particularly valuable.

Though the book has special significance for Christians, its core message will inspire people from every spiritual tradition. It makes a perfect gift to those who are weighted down with worries and not at all sure God loves them.

As a professional counselor, I'll be referring this book to individuals who are seeking spiritual as well as psychological wholeness. I already gave a copy to my sister. Raymond D. Anderson, Ph.D., M.Th., LPCC

Like Brother Lawrence's PRACTICING THE PRESENCE OF GOD, this fast-reading little book leaves you tasting its flavors long after you've devoured it. A Self Compass for finding your way. A method for integrating your whole human nature with your spiritual life. The cultivation of a naturally supernatural life. A fresh perspective on the beauty of little prayers. And real ways for surrendering to God's loving presence in your life. The author's interpersonal style made reading this book a treasured experience.

Important and timely! Many Christians are feeling disenfranchised from enjoying a truly personal relationship with God. Through practical instruction and warm personal anecdotes, the reader learns how to invite God into a vibrant, intimate everyday relationship. Understanding how to develop one's own personality using the Self Compass is an essential step. Dr. Dan Montgomery's beautifully written book is sensitive, insightful, and a tonic to the soul.

Whether you're a Christian newcomer or old-timer, or just taking a look at what the Christian faith is all about, this book will draw you closer to God. The chapters that touched me most were "God With You," "A Self Compass For Finding Your Way," "The Devil Is Emotionally Disturbed," and "The Beauty of Little Prayers." Because of its relevance to the 21st century, I recommend this book even more strongly than "Mere Christianity" by C. S. Lewis.

We live in a culture that devalues the masculine. This devaluation tends to promote negative stereotypes of boys and men which snowball in the media and become entrenched ideas. Brossman's "Finding Our Fire - Enhancing men's connection to heart, passion and strength" is a clear and insightful look into masculinity that bypasses and goes far beyond the stereotypes. It offers an easily accessible and perceptive view of what men need to do, and what men are doing, to connect with our passion and fire. Brossman is a captivating story teller and an old hand at observing and facilitating human development. You get pearls from him throughout the book but importantly you gain from the voice of the many men who for the last 10 years have been a part of his Men's Inquiry groups. In fact the book is a great source to bring understanding about men and their ways of doing things but also a very powerful guide and template for men to create their own inquiries with other men.

The book is also a great tool for women trying to love and understand the men in their lives.

Highly recommended.

Reading other men's views and feelings about key life issues in Finding Our Fire provided an inside view of what other men think and feel. In understanding their perspective, I felt a sharing with all men making me feel more positive about my own sense of masculinity. This 'diving into me',so to say, provided a unique experience I've rarely received from other books. I strongly recommend Finding Our Fire not only to men but to women also so they can understand us better.

This is an interesting book. At first, it felt a bit weird to read all of these guys' responses to the various questions. It's a much different book than a lot of others out there that just give you the author's viewpoint. This book gives you an assortment of viewpoints about all kinds of things related to life as a man. I am about halfway through the book and really enjoying it. I am taking the book as slowly as it deserves.

Martin is a unique character who never fails to find the golden core of those he meets. In this book, he touches the golden core of men in a way that enlightens and provides fodder for reflection and meaningful discussion. Oprah ought to be all over this author and his book. And I'm not a guy who generally cares for Oprah.

Couldn't put it down! Should be required reading in all schools! Absolutely spectacular...no preaching but instills great wonderful right-on visual moral and ethical insights. The Nazi scene and the Japanese internment camps...is dealt with briefly, yet so poignantly...ALL OF AMERICA need to study that part of history...or as it's said, "We're bound to repeat it." This book should reach out to young and old alike...making us more aware of how important our relationships are and just how often we expense them to our other priorities. Just really, really a great book!

In her first published book, Ronica Stromberg captures your attention through the eyes of twelve-year-old Samantha. To Samantha's disbelief, her grandmother passes away before she really has the time to get to know her. But grandmas know what it's like to be that age... Through a clever game of search and find, Samantha uncovers the clues that her grandmother left... The greatest lesson this book teaches is the importance of spending time with loved ones while you can. It comes highly recommended. I hope we see additional titles from Stromberg in the near future.

I was so grateful to find a book that was not only suitable for my children but entertaining and educational as well. This book was very well written and extremely refreshing. I enjoyed reading it as well. I hope this author produces more like this!

The book is being used in local schools because it is educational as well as entertaining. It teaches kids about the Depression Era and World War II and the glassware made during this time. Most of the time kids don't even realize they're learning about history and glass because they're so into the mystery. I'd highly recommend the book to kids who are looking for a little more than the standard fare and to parents and teachers. The book is fast-paced and many of the chapters end with cliff-hangers, keeping kids reading.

This is a concisely written and thoughtful book that expertly conveys the story of a boy and his youthful journey as part of a dysfunctional family. The book is written with such an honesty that the reader is transported into the story and time and fully able to feel the range of emotions that the main character Cay feels -- from fear and depression, to anger and even the unexpected humor at the absurdity of it all. I strongly recommend this book.

I just finished this book and thoroughly enjoyed it! It is a rare book that I pick up and actually get past the first few pages. This story captured me and had me enthralled to the last page.

I enjoyed the title's reference to Tolkien's character Bilbo Baggins. Remember Bilbo told the tale of his adventures in his story, "There and Back Again". Now I am anxious to reread "The Hobbit". (If only I had a copy as I vacation in Trinidad!)

I am elated Mr. Fuqua penned this story and hope for more to come on Caley's journey through life. I would be sad indeed if this is the end of the line. Cay, although he didn't realize it, is a tough kid. I'd like to see how he grows up.

In this story, the life, troubles and fears of Caley can touch everyone. This is one of those literary gems which cross generational and ideological divides by dealing with a character with which we can all relate on many levels.

Eleven-year-old Caley has every reason to keep to himself. After his parents' divorce, he and his two siblings keep moving every couple of months. His father is an unpredictable, emotionally abusive alcoholic. His mother is paralyzed by depression to the point of negligence. He doesn't get along with either of his stepparents. And when he finally makes a friend, it's one whose problems are even worse than his own.

But things are even worse inside his own head, where severe depression has taken hold. Every time his family moves, Caley's mental state deteriorates.

While this book is intense and so heavy in some places that it's hard to read, that only goes to show how effective Jonathon Scott Fuqua is at capturing Caley's depression. He also works a bit of black humor in to keep the story from getting too melodramatic, and he never overstates things.

Also, the language is at times beautiful. Lines such as, "The gray clouds appeared stuck like gray cement on a board," provide some lovely description devoid of cliché, as do observations such as Caley's about his mother: "She'd changed after the divorce. It was like her goodness and affectionateness seemed to be hibernating or were gone."

I would recommend GONE AND BACK AGAIN to mature teenagers who don't mind a book with heavy subject matter.

Reviewed by: Katie Hayes

Growing up is hard enough: Add divorce, an alcoholic father, a mother seemingly paralyzed as a parent by her depression and two verbally abusive step-parents and then you have story that can be truly bleak at times. Jonathon Scott Fuqua's Gone and Back Again is a painful and honest story written from the perspective of Caley, the middle child. A few times I had to stop reading to wipe the tears off my face because of the sheer sadness I felt, not only for Caley but for his entire family. But moments later, I was reading again! This was one of those books that I could not put down until I had reached the end. I highly recommend it.

Jennifer Thie, author of And Then Came Arthur

Goodbye Depression is written by a woman who suffered from depression for many years and fought her
way out.
I felt identified with the author while reading
the book. She tells her story in very simple and
clear words. It was very easy for me to follow the
story of the "FALL" and then the way "UP".
Reading the book gave me hope that I can beat
depression in the same way Dalia describes her winning
strategy.

For many years I suffered from depression, I had
medical treatment but it did not solve my problems. I
read many books written by doctors, it seems they are
far away from the suffering person.

This book is loaded with practical wisdom and common sense, in a neat, very readable and nicely illustrated package. I liked the understated, very intimate and even humorous way the author describes her own experience of depression. Her guidance for fighting depression is clear, practical and very focused. To me, what she says simply makes sense.

For many years I suffered from depression, I had medical treatment but it did not solve my problems. I read many books written by doctors, it seems they are far away from the suffering person.

Goodbye Depression is written by dalia Eliav who suffered from depression for many years and fought her way out. I felt identified with Dalia while reading the book. Dalia tells her story in very simple and clear words. It was very easy for me to follow the story of the "FALL" and then the way "UP".

Reading the book gave me hope that I can beat depression in the same way Dalia describes her winning strategy.

Reading the book gave me the good feeling of talking to a friend and learning from her experiences how to solve my own problems.