What do you think?
Rate this book
Living with Depression: Why Biology and Biography Matter Along the Path to Hope and Healing
A comprehensive approach to living, and living WELL, with depression. One out of four Americans will experience mental illness in their lifetime; major depressive disorder is the leading cause of disability in the United States for ages 15 through 44. However, only a fraction of those suffering will seek treatment, leaving the rest alone to suffer in silence.
In the fully updated second edition of Living with Depression, Serani outlines the various forms of depression, describes the different treatments, and outlines methods for living with depression and getting the help you or a loved one needs. However, since the first edition was published, much has changed in the landscape of depression including diagnostic aspects, new disorders, treatments and research, and Deborah Serani covers it all. Tips on how to choose a good therapist, negotiate the labyrinth of healthcare, and minimize stigma are addressed, as is learning how to use biology and biography as tools of empowerment. There is no other book that offers what “Living with Depression” – giving readers a dual perspective of what it’s like to know depression as a clinician and as a patient. As mental health issues are on the rise, finding resources to help sufferers and their loved ones do more than just cope is essential. Serani helps set readers on the path to living, and living well, with depression.
In the fully updated second edition of Living with Depression, Serani outlines the various forms of depression, describes the different treatments, and outlines methods for living with depression and getting the help you or a loved one needs. However, since the first edition was published, much has changed in the landscape of depression including diagnostic aspects, new disorders, treatments and research, and Deborah Serani covers it all. Tips on how to choose a good therapist, negotiate the labyrinth of healthcare, and minimize stigma are addressed, as is learning how to use biology and biography as tools of empowerment. There is no other book that offers what “Living with Depression” – giving readers a dual perspective of what it’s like to know depression as a clinician and as a patient. As mental health issues are on the rise, finding resources to help sufferers and their loved ones do more than just cope is essential. Serani helps set readers on the path to living, and living well, with depression.
254 pages, Hardcover
First published July 16, 2011
About the author
Deborah Serani
9 books170 followersDeborah Serani is the author of the award-winning nonfiction books, "Living with Depression," "Depression and Your Child: A Guide for Parents and Caregivers" and "Depression in Later Life" published by Rowman & Littlefield.
Her 2019 debut psychological suspense thriller, "The Ninth Session," published by TouchPoint Press, is a multi award-winner in both paperback and audiobook.
Serani helms the award-winning, "Sometimes When" children's picture book series along with illustrator, Kyra Ties from Free Spirit Publishing.
"Sometimes When I'm Jealous" 2024
"Sometimes When I'm Worried" 2023
"Sometimes When I'm Bored" 2022
"Sometimes When I'm Mad" 2021
"Sometimes When I'm Sad" 2020
Dr. Deborah Serani is a psychologist in private practice, a senior professor at Adelphi University, and a go-to media expert. Dr. Serani has worked as a technical advisor for the NBC television show Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. The recurring character, Judge D. Serani, was named after her.
Dr. Deborah Serani is happy to visit virtually with you and your book club when reading any of her books.
Her 2019 debut psychological suspense thriller, "The Ninth Session," published by TouchPoint Press, is a multi award-winner in both paperback and audiobook.
Serani helms the award-winning, "Sometimes When" children's picture book series along with illustrator, Kyra Ties from Free Spirit Publishing.
"Sometimes When I'm Jealous" 2024
"Sometimes When I'm Worried" 2023
"Sometimes When I'm Bored" 2022
"Sometimes When I'm Mad" 2021
"Sometimes When I'm Sad" 2020
Dr. Deborah Serani is a psychologist in private practice, a senior professor at Adelphi University, and a go-to media expert. Dr. Serani has worked as a technical advisor for the NBC television show Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. The recurring character, Judge D. Serani, was named after her.
Dr. Deborah Serani is happy to visit virtually with you and your book club when reading any of her books.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
March 5, 2012
Very comprehensive with sound advice. It was interesting to read the experiences of a mental health professional who had suffered from depression. Excellent advice on dealing with insurance companies no matter what illness you suffer. Recommended.
edited to add 3.5.12 - One thing that stuck with me after reading this was the reminder that a person in a depressive state is not thinking clearly, ie, blowing things out of proportion or seeing everything in a distorted manner. It sounds simple but is something that is so easy to forget. Great reminder.
edited to add 3.5.12 - One thing that stuck with me after reading this was the reminder that a person in a depressive state is not thinking clearly, ie, blowing things out of proportion or seeing everything in a distorted manner. It sounds simple but is something that is so easy to forget. Great reminder.
October 16, 2023
“Living With Depression” is unique in that the author is a psychologist who has battled with her own depression. This fact makes the book believable and more powerful.
I am blessed to have a positive and relatively cheery upbeat personality, but I know several people who battle with depression. My mother, for instance, struggled with it much of her life. This book addresses many issues I never fully understood and would assume would’ve been very helpful to her.
This is a well-thought-out resource for those who live with depression or know someone who does.
First Line: Dad’s gun is in the left-hand drawer of his dresser.
Genre: Self-help
Author: Deborah Serani
Page Count: 254
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
I am blessed to have a positive and relatively cheery upbeat personality, but I know several people who battle with depression. My mother, for instance, struggled with it much of her life. This book addresses many issues I never fully understood and would assume would’ve been very helpful to her.
This is a well-thought-out resource for those who live with depression or know someone who does.
First Line: Dad’s gun is in the left-hand drawer of his dresser.
Genre: Self-help
Author: Deborah Serani
Page Count: 254
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
October 17, 2023
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you Deborah Serani and iRead Book Tours. I'm excited to be a part of this tour.
Living with Depression by Deborah Serani is the book I wish I’d had when I was in my doctoral program and in the throws of an anxiety/depression cycle that felt like it would never end. While I’ve never considered suicide, I understand the role depression plays and the risk that I could slip this far. It’s scary and unsettling to say the least. Thankfully there is a piece of me that keeps moving forward through adversity while building resilience.
I identified with this book on a variety of levels and will be keeping this resource close by. After reading this, I better understand the ways I can handle my depression. The book offers both the emotional and scientific explanations in an easy-to-understand format. The book is well written, and the content is presented from the perspective of someone who has been there. I love this aspect of the book because her empathy shines through her writing.
I look forward to reading more from this author!
Living with Depression by Deborah Serani is the book I wish I’d had when I was in my doctoral program and in the throws of an anxiety/depression cycle that felt like it would never end. While I’ve never considered suicide, I understand the role depression plays and the risk that I could slip this far. It’s scary and unsettling to say the least. Thankfully there is a piece of me that keeps moving forward through adversity while building resilience.
I identified with this book on a variety of levels and will be keeping this resource close by. After reading this, I better understand the ways I can handle my depression. The book offers both the emotional and scientific explanations in an easy-to-understand format. The book is well written, and the content is presented from the perspective of someone who has been there. I love this aspect of the book because her empathy shines through her writing.
I look forward to reading more from this author!
November 3, 2014
Living with Depression by Deborah Seranti is a must read for anyone who has depression and for those who treat depression. I believe that it would also be helpful to have friends and family of anyone depressed read it.
Deborah Serani is a psychologist with a private practice and in this book, she tells of her own plans to commit suicide. But medication, psychotherapy and research by herself she is able to live with depression. I am interested in this book because I too, have major depression. It runs in my family.
She explains that depression is not a nature vs. nurture question but is the result of nature and nurture. Stress and the lack of a support system can throw you over to suicidal thoughts.
But this book is not a gloomy, recital of facts that contribute to depression. Rather it is a message of hope and healing.
Society needs to recognize that depression is a chronic illness. This is something that we have to live with through our lives. Stigma is a great problem; this can prevent people from getting help. Mental illness is not something to be laughed at but rather means that person may need medicine, counseling and support. In this book, Deborah Serani, gives ways that she personally confronts stigma.
I have two favorite parts of this book. First are the twelve pages of well know people who have lived with or have some form of depression. On that list, you will see Mark Twain, John Quincy Adams, Alex Baldwin, and Dick Clark to just name a few. She put them in this book to show that even though you have depression, you can still be successful.
The other part that enjoyed was about healthcare officials and the ways that they employ tactics to either avoid or delay payment. I had experiences some of these and had not realized that they were intentional.
In this book are steps for a personal “Suicide Prevention Plan” and information on “Living with Depression”. I was very happy to see that some of tips were ones that I had figured out for myself, like refraining from watching violent TV shows and movies, and staying away from noisy environments.
Again I strongly recommend this book to anyone dealing with the chronic illness of depression and their friends and family.
Deborah Serani is a psychologist with a private practice and in this book, she tells of her own plans to commit suicide. But medication, psychotherapy and research by herself she is able to live with depression. I am interested in this book because I too, have major depression. It runs in my family.
She explains that depression is not a nature vs. nurture question but is the result of nature and nurture. Stress and the lack of a support system can throw you over to suicidal thoughts.
But this book is not a gloomy, recital of facts that contribute to depression. Rather it is a message of hope and healing.
Society needs to recognize that depression is a chronic illness. This is something that we have to live with through our lives. Stigma is a great problem; this can prevent people from getting help. Mental illness is not something to be laughed at but rather means that person may need medicine, counseling and support. In this book, Deborah Serani, gives ways that she personally confronts stigma.
I have two favorite parts of this book. First are the twelve pages of well know people who have lived with or have some form of depression. On that list, you will see Mark Twain, John Quincy Adams, Alex Baldwin, and Dick Clark to just name a few. She put them in this book to show that even though you have depression, you can still be successful.
The other part that enjoyed was about healthcare officials and the ways that they employ tactics to either avoid or delay payment. I had experiences some of these and had not realized that they were intentional.
In this book are steps for a personal “Suicide Prevention Plan” and information on “Living with Depression”. I was very happy to see that some of tips were ones that I had figured out for myself, like refraining from watching violent TV shows and movies, and staying away from noisy environments.
Again I strongly recommend this book to anyone dealing with the chronic illness of depression and their friends and family.
October 24, 2023
This was a very technical read about depression and had a lot about medication and also therapy. I do like the chapters on non-medication usage and also the chapters on non-therapy based approaches. I would say that this is a very good read for those with depression who need the therapy and also need the medication aspect of their treatment.
There is some good information on who you can turn to and where to look if you are suffering from depression however. And the one point about St. John's Wort is important because it does work if given enough time to filter through your system. I have been taking mine for about 1.5 years now and the longer you stay on it, the more your depression and feels do regulate. This of course is my own experience and belief with my own depression, since I did not want to take any personality changing medications.
I do have some experience with depression and this book while wasn’t necessarily helpful to me, this may be helpful to others who are suffering from depression and have no one else to turn to or no other means of controlling themselves and you should reach out to doctors if needed and also if you need take medications to control the depression.
**BTW I am not a medical professional these are my own personal experiences and opinions on my experience with depression***
There is some good information on who you can turn to and where to look if you are suffering from depression however. And the one point about St. John's Wort is important because it does work if given enough time to filter through your system. I have been taking mine for about 1.5 years now and the longer you stay on it, the more your depression and feels do regulate. This of course is my own experience and belief with my own depression, since I did not want to take any personality changing medications.
I do have some experience with depression and this book while wasn’t necessarily helpful to me, this may be helpful to others who are suffering from depression and have no one else to turn to or no other means of controlling themselves and you should reach out to doctors if needed and also if you need take medications to control the depression.
**BTW I am not a medical professional these are my own personal experiences and opinions on my experience with depression***
October 18, 2023
Living With Depression was a very unique read. The author is a psychologist, and she, herself, has her own battles with depression, stigma, and advocacy.
There is so much information packed into this book! Some information I already knew, but I was surprised with the amount of stuff I didn't know!
Suffering from my own mental illnesses, this is a book I would have loved to have had. Today, I like having it on my shelf as a guide on ways to better understand what I'm going through and get the help that I need.
Living With Depression offers both an emotional, as well as scientific, look at mental illness in an easy to comprehend way.
We're given the realization that it isn't nature vs. nurture, but in fact, nature and nurture together. Dr. Serani offers multiple examples of this early in our reading.
This, coupled with the fact that the author experienced firsthand a number of items discussed in this book, made for a highly empathetic read.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who may be suffering from, or think they may have, a mental illness, plus anyone thinking of heading into this field of work.
Thank you to iRead Book Tours and the author for a complimentary copy.
You can read my full review at Bookswithachance.com
There is so much information packed into this book! Some information I already knew, but I was surprised with the amount of stuff I didn't know!
Suffering from my own mental illnesses, this is a book I would have loved to have had. Today, I like having it on my shelf as a guide on ways to better understand what I'm going through and get the help that I need.
Living With Depression offers both an emotional, as well as scientific, look at mental illness in an easy to comprehend way.
We're given the realization that it isn't nature vs. nurture, but in fact, nature and nurture together. Dr. Serani offers multiple examples of this early in our reading.
This, coupled with the fact that the author experienced firsthand a number of items discussed in this book, made for a highly empathetic read.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who may be suffering from, or think they may have, a mental illness, plus anyone thinking of heading into this field of work.
Thank you to iRead Book Tours and the author for a complimentary copy.
You can read my full review at Bookswithachance.com
October 20, 2023
I am so happy to have had the chance to read this book. I love the fact that a psychologist that has actually experienced this darkness is the one that wrote it. I loved that she shared her own experiences as someone who suffered depression as well as giving insight into the disease from the clinical side as well. I was glued to this book while experiencing many emotions as someone that continues to struggle with Major Depressive Disorder. It never felt preached with just suggestions on what do do if you are dealing with it, and this would be a great book to share with friends and family members so they can get a better idea of what someone actually goes through. I highly recommend this book.
September 25, 2023
insider´s view
Reading this book was what I´ve wished for for a long time. There is a big difference talking about mental diseases in theory and having experienced them yourself. Some doctors and therapeuts really seem to believe, there´s a one fits all solution for everybody - I wonder if they are taking the easy way out at the patients´costs. But as long as there are voices like Deborah Serani, there is hope and a motivation not to give up.
I received this book as a review copy.
Reading this book was what I´ve wished for for a long time. There is a big difference talking about mental diseases in theory and having experienced them yourself. Some doctors and therapeuts really seem to believe, there´s a one fits all solution for everybody - I wonder if they are taking the easy way out at the patients´costs. But as long as there are voices like Deborah Serani, there is hope and a motivation not to give up.
I received this book as a review copy.
September 22, 2023
Very helpful if you have felt depressed.
February 7, 2018
This is the best book on depression I have read. The author is particularly knowledgeable both because of professional training and personal experience. She has depression.
I have had depression since I was in 5th grade. I will not say how many decades ago that was. I am treated by a psychiatrist at a major medical school and by a psychologist at the VA.
My one caution for anyone reading the book is the author gives a very low estimate of how many people are helped by anti-depressants, 20%. My experience talking to others with depression is anti-depessants do not solve the problems but gets people to a point where talk therapy can work. The author does not advise against taking medication and takes it herself. A prominant psychiatrist told me the anti-depressant I take has done all it would ever do. His suggestion was "get a dog and walk." I got a pitbull and we walk 3-4 hours almost every day. I lost 60 pounds and got off blood pressure medication and medication for diabetes. Walking has made it easier to keep my life on the level.
The two statments I highlighted in the book are "Psychotherapy will not fix you. You will fix you. A psychotherapist’s task is to help you help yourself." and "Psychotherapy does not always make you feel better."
I have had depression since I was in 5th grade. I will not say how many decades ago that was. I am treated by a psychiatrist at a major medical school and by a psychologist at the VA.
My one caution for anyone reading the book is the author gives a very low estimate of how many people are helped by anti-depressants, 20%. My experience talking to others with depression is anti-depessants do not solve the problems but gets people to a point where talk therapy can work. The author does not advise against taking medication and takes it herself. A prominant psychiatrist told me the anti-depressant I take has done all it would ever do. His suggestion was "get a dog and walk." I got a pitbull and we walk 3-4 hours almost every day. I lost 60 pounds and got off blood pressure medication and medication for diabetes. Walking has made it easier to keep my life on the level.
The two statments I highlighted in the book are "Psychotherapy will not fix you. You will fix you. A psychotherapist’s task is to help you help yourself." and "Psychotherapy does not always make you feel better."
January 16, 2022
When I was going through one of my worst depressions, Dr. Serani's book "Living with Depression" helped me so much. When one is depressed, it's hard to focus on anything for long, let alone get through a book. But Dr. Serani's clear writing and warm, understanding tone made it possible for me to read, and her book helped me feel less alone with my pain. Because of "Living with Depression", I felt better informed about how to deal with my depression. I'm so grateful I was able to find Dr. Serani's extraordinary book, and if I could give it 10 stars, I would!
Dyane Harwood, mental health writer and advocate
Dyane Harwood, mental health writer and advocate
August 29, 2011
An important book. Both scientific and emotional. The author tells her story in a way that draws you in. The science is well documented. If you struggle with depression, treat those with depression or love someone with depression, this is a must have resource.
August 2, 2012
Having lived with depression my entire adult life, I found this a useful guide. I gave it to my mother, in hopes it would help her understand my life, and it did.
October 18, 2023
Living With Depression Offers Readers a Valuable Mental Health Resource. The author brings a unique perspective to this guide on living with depression. She is both a psychologist and a depression patient. The author covers the ins and outs of depression from symptoms and diagnosis to treatment and management of the condition--and many of the pieces of the path that depression sufferers walk during their mental health journey. The author doesn't present one aspect of healing to readers--she offers a pretty broad view of living with depression, including the interrelated biological, psychological, and societal aspects, as well as her personal experiences and journey.
Living with Depression Gives Readers Insights into Depression. Living with depression varies from sufferer to sufferer and family to family. This book presents a relatively clinical view of depression, educating readers about the many aspects and considerations of the illness--without guiding the reader toward a specific self-help path. Readers can learn a lot about living with depression--whether personally or as a caregiver or support person--and pick up many resources to help them move through life touched by depression.
The Author Gives Readers a Lot to Consider in a Rather Concise Book. Readers need to understand that they are not alone in their journey with depression. This sentiment is an excellent message for those new to facing depression. Understanding that depression is common--and that there are resources available and treatment options--is so essential to those new to facing depression. This book offers a lot of information in a concise space. Unfortunately, having an appendix dedicated to listing famous people with mood disorders didn't add anything to the usefulness of this book. Aside from the few pages of resources in Appendix B, I felt that the book's last quarter offered little to most self-help book readers.
Would I Recommend Living with Depression by Deborah Serani? The author brings much information to those new to understanding and living with depression. For those more experienced with life with depression and mental health issues--there is a little less to gain from the material in this book. Overall, the author presents the information in an easy-to-read, easy-to-use manner that is valuable to readers. I would recommend the book to families facing a new depression diagnosis--especially those interested in a broader understanding of the illness, causes, symptoms, and its treatment.
I received a copy of this book from the author or publisher for use in a blog review. All opinions are my own.
Living with Depression Gives Readers Insights into Depression. Living with depression varies from sufferer to sufferer and family to family. This book presents a relatively clinical view of depression, educating readers about the many aspects and considerations of the illness--without guiding the reader toward a specific self-help path. Readers can learn a lot about living with depression--whether personally or as a caregiver or support person--and pick up many resources to help them move through life touched by depression.
The Author Gives Readers a Lot to Consider in a Rather Concise Book. Readers need to understand that they are not alone in their journey with depression. This sentiment is an excellent message for those new to facing depression. Understanding that depression is common--and that there are resources available and treatment options--is so essential to those new to facing depression. This book offers a lot of information in a concise space. Unfortunately, having an appendix dedicated to listing famous people with mood disorders didn't add anything to the usefulness of this book. Aside from the few pages of resources in Appendix B, I felt that the book's last quarter offered little to most self-help book readers.
Would I Recommend Living with Depression by Deborah Serani? The author brings much information to those new to understanding and living with depression. For those more experienced with life with depression and mental health issues--there is a little less to gain from the material in this book. Overall, the author presents the information in an easy-to-read, easy-to-use manner that is valuable to readers. I would recommend the book to families facing a new depression diagnosis--especially those interested in a broader understanding of the illness, causes, symptoms, and its treatment.
I received a copy of this book from the author or publisher for use in a blog review. All opinions are my own.
December 28, 2023
Living with Depression: Why Biology and Biography Matter Along the Path to Hope and Healing” by Deborah Serani is a crucial resource for anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of depression and its management. In a society with increasingly prevalent mental health issues, Serani’s book stands out as a beacon of knowledge and hope.
The book’s fully updated second edition covers a wide range of topics, from the various forms of depression to the ever-evolving landscape of depression research and treatment. What makes this book truly exceptional is Serani’s unique perspective as both a clinician and a patient, offering readers valuable insights into the condition from both sides.
Serani’s writing is clear, accessible, and filled with practical advice, making it a valuable addition to any library. She addresses the clinical aspects and tackles the challenges of navigating the healthcare system, choosing the right therapist, and overcoming the stigma associated with depression. Furthermore, the author’s personal journey with depression is an inspiring role model for those seeking hope and recovery.
As mental health issues continue to affect a significant portion of the population, “Living with Depression” is a vital resource for those diagnosed with depression and their loved ones, offering guidance and support on the path to living well with this challenging condition.
I received a copy of the book for the tour. This review is my honest, unbiased opinion.
The book’s fully updated second edition covers a wide range of topics, from the various forms of depression to the ever-evolving landscape of depression research and treatment. What makes this book truly exceptional is Serani’s unique perspective as both a clinician and a patient, offering readers valuable insights into the condition from both sides.
Serani’s writing is clear, accessible, and filled with practical advice, making it a valuable addition to any library. She addresses the clinical aspects and tackles the challenges of navigating the healthcare system, choosing the right therapist, and overcoming the stigma associated with depression. Furthermore, the author’s personal journey with depression is an inspiring role model for those seeking hope and recovery.
As mental health issues continue to affect a significant portion of the population, “Living with Depression” is a vital resource for those diagnosed with depression and their loved ones, offering guidance and support on the path to living well with this challenging condition.
I received a copy of the book for the tour. This review is my honest, unbiased opinion.
December 13, 2020
"Depression in Later Life: An Essential Guide" by Deborah Serani is a self-help book. Depression is a mental disorder that is common among people of all ages. Earlier people used to associate depression with old people but nowadays we can observe even teenagers suffering from it. Author who herself had suffered from double depression has shared many useful tips in this book.
This book contains the definition of depression and its symptoms. To diagnose the depression, an appointment with health professional is needed. After consulting physician, a person in depression has to be evaluated by a mental health professional. This book includes the traditional treatments and holistic approaches for depression in later life. There are various case studies discussed in this book.
Please be advised that this book contains sensitive content including depression, attempt to suicide, etc. It is a detailed book written on depression. Author has shared wide knowledge in this book from her own experience. Cover photo is quite simple. Title is appropriate. Writing style of Deborah is nice and this is the second book by the author that I have read on depression.
This book contains the definition of depression and its symptoms. To diagnose the depression, an appointment with health professional is needed. After consulting physician, a person in depression has to be evaluated by a mental health professional. This book includes the traditional treatments and holistic approaches for depression in later life. There are various case studies discussed in this book.
Please be advised that this book contains sensitive content including depression, attempt to suicide, etc. It is a detailed book written on depression. Author has shared wide knowledge in this book from her own experience. Cover photo is quite simple. Title is appropriate. Writing style of Deborah is nice and this is the second book by the author that I have read on depression.
October 9, 2023
Living with Depression is a book that will save lives. It's informative, resourceful, empowering and told with understanding and compassion. The book particularly resonated with me because it isn't just someone lecturing you, it is told by someone who has been through it and understands because they have been there themselves. I know a little about depression as I myself suffer from anxiety but this book has given me more knowledge and it's nice to know that you are not alone. Deborah Serani has insight and wisdom and if you read this book it may save yourself or someone else. I'd like to say that I appreciate Deborah speaking out about her own struggles as I know it can't have been easy so well done.
October 17, 2023
Brutally honest practical guide written with authority.
The author writes with great authority and authenticity. She is honest about her own relevant experiences, but on top of that you get a scientifically and therapeutically based text presented in logical and approachable fashion.
She draws upon her own life experiences describing how biology and your own life history interplay to result in a unique experience of mood disorder. Hope and resilience abound through her own example and sharing her paths to recovery and stable life. I liked it all, but my favourite was the chapter gving the inside tracks.
I have two minor quibbles. First, because she is in the USA, there is a portion taken up with how to navigate and optomise what she acknowledges is the worst outcome health system in the developed world. Interesting and creates sympathy, but not relevant to international readers. The second is that it is titled living with depression, yet ignores parents, partners and friends who may be living with the person experiencing depression. Neither of these are sufficient to deduct a star from the rating.
Suicide prevention and stigma are also tackled head on. There is even a chapter about the effects of a pandemic like Covid19. The writing is pitched at the intelligent adult, but the background is thoroughly academic with several appendices, annotation of notes in each chapter and 360 references. A glossary and what I found most interesting was a long list of high profile people who have or had mood disorder are also included. The inclusion of Covid19 makes it clear I reviewed the second edition, and not the first the related icon shows.
I would commend this book to anyone interested in or touched by depression.
I received a free advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The author writes with great authority and authenticity. She is honest about her own relevant experiences, but on top of that you get a scientifically and therapeutically based text presented in logical and approachable fashion.
She draws upon her own life experiences describing how biology and your own life history interplay to result in a unique experience of mood disorder. Hope and resilience abound through her own example and sharing her paths to recovery and stable life. I liked it all, but my favourite was the chapter gving the inside tracks.
I have two minor quibbles. First, because she is in the USA, there is a portion taken up with how to navigate and optomise what she acknowledges is the worst outcome health system in the developed world. Interesting and creates sympathy, but not relevant to international readers. The second is that it is titled living with depression, yet ignores parents, partners and friends who may be living with the person experiencing depression. Neither of these are sufficient to deduct a star from the rating.
Suicide prevention and stigma are also tackled head on. There is even a chapter about the effects of a pandemic like Covid19. The writing is pitched at the intelligent adult, but the background is thoroughly academic with several appendices, annotation of notes in each chapter and 360 references. A glossary and what I found most interesting was a long list of high profile people who have or had mood disorder are also included. The inclusion of Covid19 makes it clear I reviewed the second edition, and not the first the related icon shows.
I would commend this book to anyone interested in or touched by depression.
I received a free advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 10, 2024
2.5 stars, mainly because for me there was little, if anything, new in this book.
If you're looking for a short overview of many aspects of living with depression, give it a shot. It may be especially resonant with mothers and with people in the psychology professions since those are the author's experience.
If you're looking for a short overview of many aspects of living with depression, give it a shot. It may be especially resonant with mothers and with people in the psychology professions since those are the author's experience.
August 18, 2018
If you or a loved one is newly diagnosed with depression, this is a great resource. If you’ve been battling depression for a while and been getting help, this book has nothing new to add.
August 15, 2012
I hate forcing myself make incoherent mumblings about books like this; the sort where parts were quite interesting and informative, parts seemed to lurch off into some sort of cloud-cuckoo land of useless drivel, and parts left me with a sense that the author is a True Believer™ of the sort that tolerates no dissent when the matter up for discussion is the One True Path regarding depression. (The metaphor that popped into my head: "The High School Health teacher from Hell." Doubtless unfair, but containing at least a grain of truth.)
I also hate the fact that GR seems to be truncating my reviews almost by caprice of late. If there's a place where the trigger gets pulled I've yet to find it. So I'll briefly map out my view of the good and leave it at that. Chapters 1-4 were on balance very good. Unfortunately things started to wobble a bit in Chapter 4...but the discussion of how people metabolize drugs (p. 50) was news to me, as I suspect it would be to most. And that was, of course, in Chapter 4. I've never heard an MD (shrink or not) so much as mention this and I've seen more than my share. And to be blunt: that's it. Unless you feel a deep-seated need to unleash your inner-fascist, I guess, and march lock-step down the One True Path, looking neither right nor left.
I also hate the fact that GR seems to be truncating my reviews almost by caprice of late. If there's a place where the trigger gets pulled I've yet to find it. So I'll briefly map out my view of the good and leave it at that. Chapters 1-4 were on balance very good. Unfortunately things started to wobble a bit in Chapter 4...but the discussion of how people metabolize drugs (p. 50) was news to me, as I suspect it would be to most. And that was, of course, in Chapter 4. I've never heard an MD (shrink or not) so much as mention this and I've seen more than my share. And to be blunt: that's it. Unless you feel a deep-seated need to unleash your inner-fascist, I guess, and march lock-step down the One True Path, looking neither right nor left.
March 3, 2012
This is far more complete than any Psychology 101 or 102 course I have taken on depression. There are important insights to help people understand the nuances of uni-polar and bipolar depression to recognize triggers, and information on effective treatments. There is so much compassion and hope in this book too. I really connected with the author as I hoped I would as I have been following her blog for years and also seeing her comment on other blogs. She is quite an advocate for helping to eliminate stigma when it comes to Mental Health. I even learned more about stigma than I ever knew. A book to take to heart as it is written with a lot of heart from someone who is passionate about learning all she can possibly learn now and is interested in both conventional and alternative treatments. A very uplifting book about depression!
March 31, 2013
A strong look into depression (and bipolar disorder) by a doctor who suffers it herself. This unique approach covers some of the stigma and mocking she has experienced personally. There are a few messages here that are very important; be your own advocate, you are influenced by biography and biology and self-care should be priority. A must read if you have depression, know someone who suffers it or if you want to better understand the mental illness.
I was most interested in the list of well known actors, artists, writers that are affected by depression and bipolar disorder. Shocking but very inspiring. (David Bowie, one of my personal heroes, is on the list)
*If you are feeling depressed, call your family doctor, a crisis line or get to a local hospital. You are not alone.
I was most interested in the list of well known actors, artists, writers that are affected by depression and bipolar disorder. Shocking but very inspiring. (David Bowie, one of my personal heroes, is on the list)
*If you are feeling depressed, call your family doctor, a crisis line or get to a local hospital. You are not alone.
April 21, 2013
Well thought out, and I liked that the author wasn't just a doctor but someone who has suffered from depression as well. It makes it much easier to trust her.
Proper review will follow later. Book received through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Proper review will follow later. Book received through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 25, 2011
bo-ring
August 6, 2016
All your basic info. Kind of medical. Interesting list of celebrities with mental illnessess in the back.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews