Reviews (3)

A Compassionate Approach to Recovery
An excellent resource for those struggling with codependency and various other psychic illnesses.The book is written by Christians with a Biblical perspective, which is awesome for those who want to read a recovery book that emphasizes the spiritual approach to health and wholeness.

Personal Empowerment!
Simply put, another reviewer's religious [anti-religion?] bias aside, it is refreshing to obtain a medical/psychiatric expert's training & experience encourage personal responsibility and personal empowerment (albeit with the help of God/one's "Higher Power").People can indeed be free from symptoms of depression, or obtain some relief at least, through what can be termed cognitive-behavioral methods.Minirth's position is supported by research, which finds the use of this treatment in conjunction with medications as the most effective for depression.

Christian extremism?
I just received the book and was impressed that it did discuss the things you need to know about depression: what the symptoms are, how it is caused, how it is treated, etc.However, I was not prepared for the heavy fundamental Christian emphasis.Personally, I have a problem with saying, "Depression can be caused by Satan."I suspect there are some people who are struggling with mental illness, for whom bringing up Satan as a cause of their problem, does more harm than good.I couldn't believe two medical doctors would write a book with such controversial religious ideas portrayed as accepted medical practice.I threw the book away the same day I received it. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Depression    2. Inspirational    3. Inspirational - Protestant Self Help    4. Self-Help    5. Self-Help / Depression   

Editorial Review

Most of us have heard about the way depression can run in families, andof theories proposing a genetic predisposition to the disease. But thosetheories present only one side of depression--what about the behaviors andcoping skills learned in families where depression is an issue? How do weidentify those subtle patterns and improve our lives without resorting to"wonder drugs"? In Read more

Reviews (4)

Depression is about families, not just individuals
What impressed me the most about this book was Dr. Yapko's consideration of how depression is much more than something that hurts only individuals. It hurts families, too. My husband had been depressed for a long time, and refused to get any help, thinking it would "just go away." It didn't. I didn't know how to cope with him, and neither did our kids. We just got frustrated and angry, which didn't help. The book helped me get a much better understanding of what my husband has been going through and how I can cope with his way of doing things. But even better than that, I have a positive way of talking with the kids and our friends and relatives about his issues and how they affect us. My husband is doing better lately, and I think that's due to some of the suggestions in the book that have helped us be smarter in the way we deal with him. As Dr. Yapko points out, when we change some of what we do, others will change, too. This book has really helped our family alot, for which I am grateful to Dr. Yapko.

So that's what's wrong with my family!
As they say, you can't judge a book by its cover but when I saw the title, I had to read it. As I was checking it out of my local library, the woman in line behind me saw the cover and was disappointed that I was taking it out instead of returning it. This all speaks volumes about the need for someone to explain how some families get so dysfunctional in the first place and more importantly how to counteract their negative influence and hopefully recover from it. I've known for years that the root of my depression was in the family dsyfunction I grew up with but I couldn't quite explain how. We didn't become dysfunctional by the classic things like alcoholism or drug abuse but by something more insidious. Reading this book helped me at least start to unravel the tangled mess of my depressive family relationships. It's not a cure-all but it's a great start!

Invaluable.A must read
Dr. Michael Yapko, a leading expert on depression, has written a book on depression that offers sound advice for people who are depressed and their families.If you, or a loved one, is depressed, this book is must reading. Yapko surveys the myths of depression and offers solutions on how familiescan help one another.This book should be must reading for any family thatis experiencing depression ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Depression    2. Family Relationships    3. Psychology    4. Self-Help   

Reviews (17)

Helpful to any parent who has lost a child
I think that this is one of the best bereavement books I have ever read.No matter what the conditions were of your childs' death, you will find yourself in this book.This book drives home that we may be thrown into a different world when our child dies, but we bereaved parents all share many common similarities in feelings and thoughts.This book helps a bereaved parent realize that they are not alone in their grief; the emotions they are feeling are 'normal'.I would recommend this book to anyone who has lost a child and any family member or friend who knows someone who has lost a child.

Don't bother
After the death of my 24 yr old son in September 2000 I was desperate for some relief from my grief. I read several books on the loss of a child. This was the worst one. I felt cheated after reading it, I wish I could have gotten my money back. The book that helped the most was "The Bereaved Parent."

Incredible Read
After experiencing our own devastating losses, this book comforts me still. I highly recommend it to anyone who has lost a child, from conception to adulthood. You are never alone in your grief.Your life will go on. GB ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Bereavement    2. Children    3. Death    4. Death, Grief, Bereavement    5. Emotions    6. Family & Relationships    7. Family / Parenting / Childbirth    8. Grief    9. Psychological aspects    10. Recovery    11. Coping with death & bereavement    12. Family & Health    13. Self-Help / Depression   

Reviews (4)

A Must Read
Although The Bipolar Child had great insight as to why my child was diagnosed ADHD at 6 and then rediagnosed Bipolar at age 14, I found this book to be extremely helpful as to what needs to follow now that my son is Bipolar.I have to agree with one of the other reviews written, that this book contains information parents are "assumed" to already know, when in fact, we do not.If you have a child suffering from Bipolar or depression, I highly recommend reading this book.

Great book for parents.
I work as an inpatient clinician on a child/adolescent unit.This book answers the questions and gives the guidance I am frequently asked for.Clearly it is a book that was written by very knowledgable professionals who have a compasionate understanding for what the overwhelmed parents of these children need. It is clearly written and full of practical advice and useful tools. I strongly recommend it for anyone with a child/teen with a mood problem.If you know one of these parents-buy it as a gift for them-they are probably too busy dealing with their life to get it for themselves.

Realistic, Informed, and Practical
As the mother of a bipolar child, I've read just about everything available. While "The Bipolar Child" informs about childhood bipolar disorder, "Raising A Moody Child" assumes that, as parents, we already know about the disorder and now need nuts-and-bolts coping strategies and techniques. (Am not knocking "The Bipolar Child." It was a necessary, groundbreaking book.)Read more

Subjects:  1. Child psychology    2. Depression    3. Depression in children    4. Emotionally disturbed children    5. Family & Relationships    6. Family / Parenting / Childbirth    7. Family/Marriage    8. Manic-depressive illness in ch    9. Manic-depressive illness in children    10. Mood Disorders    11. Parenting - General    12. Popular works    13. Child & developmental psychology    14. Child care & upbringing    15. Coping with illness    16. Psychology & Psychiatry / Family Therapy   

Reviews (2)

Straightforward, Research-Based, and Interesting Treatment
I found this book highly readable, practical, and engaging at a theoretical level. I came away learning some new therapeutic techniques, but even more so the book helped me explore a very different way of thinking about depression (or other mental health problems).The authors do a good job contrasting a contextual view of depression with the other major models including biological, cognitive, and interpersonal.This is not your run-of-the mill psychotherapy book.Buy it and you won't be dissapointed!

Strategies for action in the management of depression
Christopher Martell, et.al.'s Depression In Context covers strategies for action in the management of depression. It's one of Neil Jacobson's last contributions to the study of depression and here he works with Martell and Michael Addis in presenting behavioral approaches to treating depression. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Depression    2. Depression, Mental    3. Mental Illness    4. Psychology    5. Psychotherapy - General    6. Treatment    7. Clinical psychology    8. Psychiatry   

Reviews (6)

Anti-whining strategy for fighting depression
For some reason, perhaps because many intellectuals suffer from and write about it, depression has become a trendy psychological affliction among people who by objective criteria have little to complain about. Comprehensive
The premise of Simon's theory is that depression is due to our tendency to compare ourselves to others, how we used to be, what we hope to be, etc.It sounds simplistic, but the book is actually very comprehensive.Ratherthan making generalizations about all depressed people, he details manydifferent methods and combinations of methods so that you can choose theones that will work for you.

chapter 12
lofas ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Cognitive therapy    2. Depression    3. Depression, Mental    4. Neuropsychology    5. Popular works    6. Psychology    7. Psychopathology - General    8. Self-esteem    9. Self-help techniques    10. Behavioural theory (Behaviourism)    11. Cognition & cognitive psychology    12. Psychiatry    13. Psychotherapy   

Reviews (8)

I'm glad it is a small book
The bipolar friend I gave this book too appreciated the size being small and was more willing to read it than he would have a thick "too-much-information" book.It is a great size to carry around without being conspicuous.

Small Book, Good Info...
I must say that I was a little put off when I first received this book in the mail. It was quite a bit smaller than I had expected, so be prepared. It is more like an oversized booklet than a book. Teenagers could use this book too!
Some people don't realize that anxiety and depression is a big deal in the teenage world today.So this book can be really helpful for teenagers too!My mother is reviewing the book again with me.Dr. Colbert delivered me when I was born at Florida Hospital and was my doctor for many years and we have a lot of respect for him.And he is a really pleasant person and always made me laugh when I was in his office ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Alternative treatment    2. Anxiety    3. Christianity - Christian Life - Physical Health    4. Depression    5. Depression, Mental    6. Diet / Health / Fitness    7. Healing    8. Health & Fitness    9. Health/Fitness    10. Healthy Living    11. Popular works   

Subjects:  1. Depression    2. Psychology    3. Coping with personal problems   

Reviews (3)

What Am I Thinking?Having a baby Atfer Pospartum Depression
After suffering a long battle with postpartum depression my husband and I were very nervous about having more children.I read the book then shared it with him.We were able to use the tools it gives to have conversations that enabled us to make an informed decision.This year we welcomed our wonderderful new son.Easy to read and very usable book.As the director of a PPD suport group I reccomend it often!!!!!!

Invaluable for women, families and clinicians
This book is a must read for any woman who has struggled with postpartum depression and is considering having another child. It is invaluable for moms, their families and especially clinicians in maternal health. It encouages a much needed process - of planning, dialogue between partners as well as families and providers. It stresses the need for forethought, planning and coordination which has been sorely missed in the field of perinatal depression. This book is intensely practical, compelling and compassionate and is invaluable in the treament of postpartum mood disorders.

The author knew what I was thinking
I remember saying aloud "What am I thinking?" when I became pregnant with my second child after a previous struggle with postpartum depression. I couldn't imagine having to go through it again. I had read Karen Kleiman's first book "This Isn't What I Expected"and it helped me immensely. I saw that she had another book and my own words caught my attention. "What am I thinking? " My questions and my fears and the issues that frightened me so were addressed in this book.Karen's book has helped to alleviate some of my fears and has taught me what I need to know as I welcome my second child into my family. I will read it again before my new baby is born. This is a must read for anyone who has struggled with PPD and wonders how she might handle having another baby. Thank you, Karen. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Depression    2. Gynecology & Obstetrics    3. Psychology    4. Self-Help    5. Coping with illness   

Reviews (4)

This book got me out of a doozy
Dr. Wexler's book was inspiring and insightful, to say the least. His metaphors and simple, yet thoughtful, techniques and insights changed my relationship. This book helped me overcome my semi-depressed life that seemed to consist of the same day over and over again. I am now able to see myself and my relationship in a whole new light.

Saved
This book saved my relationship. I was terrified to start a relationship with a wonderful guy because I knew he drank. I knew he had been in Vietnam but had that was 30 years ago. After reading Dr. Wexler's book I insisted that he go to the VA
Great guide to the hidden epidemic of Male Depression
This is a great little book, filled with helpful insights and vignettes. I found myself quoting Dr. Wexler's book so often in treatment that I finally got smart and started making it required reading for all of my clients, both couples and individuals, for whom male depression is an issue.
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Subjects:  1. Depression    2. Depression in men    3. Depression, Mental    4. Family relationships    5. Patients    6. Psychology    7. Self-Help    8. Coping with personal problems    9. Marriage, family & other relationships   

Subjects:  1. Depression    2. Inspirational    3. Inspirational - General    4. Inspirational - Gifts    5. Motivational & Inspirational    6. Religion    7. Inspiration/Motivational/General    8. Religion/Inspirational - General    9. Self-Help / Depression    10. Self-Help/Motivational & Inspirational   

Reviews (1)

phbbbbt
BAH! This book is basically a very long way of going about saying, "more research is needed." That said, it does deal very well with the anti-depressant therepy versus psychotherepy, taht is, is comes firmly on teh side of, well, um...., you see, there are studys atht say if you put dysthymics in a cage for forty days, well, they'll get better, but really, more research is needed. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Chronic Disease    2. Depression    3. Depression, Mental    4. Depressive Disorder    5. Dysthymic Disorder    6. Mental Depression    7. Mental Illness    8. Psychiatry - General    9. Psychology    10. Psychopathology - General    11. Clinical psychology    12. Pharmacology    13. Psychiatry    14. Psychology & Psychiatry / Clinical Psychology   

Reviews (31)

Great Book For Me!
I wasn't diagnosed officially with Bipolar II until Wednesday, March 27, 2003, but I'd already had this book for almost ten years at that point...because I'd suspected that I was a manic-depressive since 1991, after seeing a segment about both Bipolar and ADHD on ABC's "20/20" and the follow-up on ABC's "Nightline" that same night.
The reality hurts
The reality of living with manic-depressive illness, whether it be you or someone you love, is driven home by Patty Duke's extreme symptoms of this disorder. This book is basically an autobiography of her life but it is also much more. It is very easy to read and informative on the types of bipolar mood swings, the different medications and how they work, which is very helpful to the average person who doesn't understand medical terminology! (like me).I never cared much for The Patty Duke Show, but now have a profound respect for her after reading her history and how she survived. Toward the end of the book are important chapters for spouses, siblings, children, friends and anyone who lives with or cares for a person with bipolar disorder on effective ways to help cope with the stress and therapy. Cases are cited in detailed on "victories" and "failures".It is easy to see where one can work on changing their own reactions to helping the one they care about. This is the first book I have ever seen my husband read in 2 days; he could not put it down. Afterward, he looked at me and started treating me in a new light. I think we will be one of the "victories!"

Great Book for Everyone
I think this book will reach out best to middle-aged women as Patty Duke writes from that perspective.However, I was 18 when my father and I read it together.One of the virtutes of the book is that it isn't just about Patty, but also about the rest of her family.This allows for even the non bipolar afflicted to understand what is happening and how they can help.The fact that Patty Duke is well known is both a positive and a negative:positive because we all know her and negative because how many people live like a star?I think this book presents an accurate portrayal of a colorful illness in a digestible format.I think the book is a good read that will teach you about bipolar even if you aren't trying to learn. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. 1946-    2. Biography / Autobiography    3. Biography/Autobiography    4. Duke, Patty,    5. General    6. Manic-depressive illness    7. Manic-depressive psychoses    8. Mental Depression    9. Mental health    10. Popular works    11. Duke, Patty    12. Non-Classifiable   

Reviews (4)

If you are or a loved one is suffering from depression, you should read this book.
As someone newly trying to grapple with the complicated topic of adolescent depression, from understanding what it is, to thinking about how to cope with it, this book is tops.It is easily readable and yet thorough in discussing every aspect of adolescent depression.Thank you to the authors for publishing this important work.

A Teenager with Depression
As a teen with depression I read a lot of book on the topic.THIS IS THE BEST ONE!I was diagnosed with a certin depression, that is hard to find information on -double depression. This book explains all about the differnt kinds of depression, also differtent methods to help feel better.I liked and related so much I would leave the book out with a note teeling my parents or friends to read parts.This book explains all parts if depression, and makes it a good read for a teenager that is depressed, or for some one that knows a teen.

As a Teenager with Depression
I dignosed with Depression in my teens and I have read many book out there over the years.THIS IS THE BEST ONE!I realted to it so much and I was able to show other people pages and sections that I tought would help them, help me.This book explains about differnt kinds of depression, and one of them is what I was diagnosed with.This is the only book that I have found that has a whole section of it.I love this book and if you are a teenager, or know a teenager with depression I would recomend this book. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Child Care/Parenting    2. Depression    3. Depression (Psychology)    4. Depression in adolescence    5. Emotions    6. Family & Relationships    7. Family / Parenting / Childbirth    8. Life Stages - Teenagers    9. Mental health    10. Parenting - General    11. Popular works    12. Teenagers    13. Psychology & Psychiatry / Mental Health   

Reviews (1)

Good reference book of adolescent depression for parents
It provided clear information about adolescent depression and helped us tremendously.I followed the sugegestions in the book during the treatment process for my child's depression.Even my child's psychiatrist found it useful.Depression is an illness that affect whole family, sick or not, in every sigle minute of the day.I learned to manage my own anxiety too.Parents and patients usually were panic due to lack of understanding of the disease.I consult this book again and again, before and after the appointment to the psychiatrist and psychologist.It really helped me and my family. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Depression    2. Life Stages - Adolescence    3. Medical    4. Mental Illness    5. Parenting - General    6. Psychiatry - Child & Adolescent    7. Psychology    8. Adolescent children    9. Coping with illness    10. History / United States / General    11. Neurology & clinical neurophysiology   

Reviews (18)

Only people that has right to say anything about these drugs are the people that have taken them.
Some people think they are so smart that they know everything about these drugs and chemistry, no matter how smart you are and lets say youre #1 top psychiatrists in the world. If you havent taken the SSRI yourself and experienced the damaging affect of these drugs, you cant say anything PERIOD. Not even if you invented the drug !!!!!Why do we have so many people complaining about these drugs? duh maybe because there is a problem and causing problems!!!, people who havent tried or experience the damaging affects afterwards dont see why people are complaining. We dont see books about warning people not to take for example flu shots do we? No. I used to be one of those people who believed and that popping a pill can solve my life problems but Now because of SSRI my life is ruined and have permanant problems that wont go away. And for people who are currently on SSRI, pills will never ever cure depression unless you stay on them forever,Im sure you are happy with those fake smiles, see what happens when you taper off of them. And people who are FOR these drugs should immediately go to doctors and try them and see how safe they are. I recommend you try prozac first. If that dont work out dont worry there are plenty others that doctors will want you to try. HAHAHA so sad that there are still people out there in this country that really believe these pills can help them.

Dubious quality
One glaring omission is that she fails to mention that SSRIs can cause permanent sexual side effects even after discontinuance. Long overlooked by the medical community. Do google search for details.

Must Read but it's a Word Swamp so be Warned
At present, this is a MUST read book, because it is one of the few sources which warn us of the massive pharmaceutical cover-up going on about the dangers of these drugs. Tracy warns readers time and again of the hushed-up psychotic episodes which these drugs can cause. One thing I wish she would have added was information pertaining to the rash of school shootings this nation has had in the past 10-15 years since the widespread dispersion of these drugs: I have heard from a couple other sources that the Columbine kids and the Minnesota Native American kid were on SSRIs. This would surely fit with the conclusions of this book, how the SSRIs mimic PCP in the system, especially in the systems of still-developing adolescents. The drawback to this book is that it is poorly organized. Tracy repeats herself quite often as a result. The poor organization of material makes it extremely hard to get through the entire book.
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Subjects:  1. Depression    2. Health/Fitness    3. Psychology   

Reviews (7)

Lots of insight, but don't rule out meds
I must take issue with the author's statement that psychiatric medications are ineffective in treating dysthymia (see the appendix).His review of the literature supporting this assertion is incomplete at best; at least one study which he mentioned actually *supported* the use of medications (he quoted it out of context to argue *against* their effectiveness)!As a student of psychology, I recently did library research on the treatment of dysthymia and found that the majority of studies indicate that medications are at least as helpful as psychotherapy in treating dysthymia.
A brilliant description of chronic discontent
I think this isso far the best descriptive aspect of chronic discontent. Particularly it is coming from a person who have been there.I feel that the Dr Downs has done a really great job not only in describing one of the aspects of life which is common yet not acknowledged often, it shows the way how to fight it( i have some doubts on the methods he describes simply because i think chronic discontent is almost a part of the personality,hence ingrained i.e hardwired,hence only partly can be addressed through psychological methods). I think that it is too simplistic to differentiate chronic discontent from dysthymia.
Half Empty Heart
For most of my relationship with my significant other, I have struggled with his lack of ability to include me in his life.There were many times that he would be very open and honest with me while in the next instance he would withdraw and cage himself in some other place.After finding the review of "Half Empty Heart" in a magazine, I felt as if the author had been following my boyfriend around, taking notes on his daily life.Read more

Subjects:  1. Depression    2. Mental Depression    3. Mental Health    4. Personal Growth - Happiness    5. Psychology   

Reviews (3)

A must read for parents and teachers.
This book not only describes the symptoms of depression, but also gives parents a plan to "rescue" their children.I cannot recommend it highly enough.It is highly readable and understandable.

Sobering, powerful, and essential
The Depressed Child: A Parent's Guide To Rescuing Kids is a book written to empower parents who feel helpless in understanding the negative self-images and unhappy emotions that affect their children. Author Dr. Douglas Riley is a clinical psychologist who specializes in child and adolescent psychology, who has operated a private outpatient clinic since 1994; here, he presents parents with clear, detailed, easy-to-understand information about adolescent depression and what to do about it. Topics include how to overcome the "I'm inferior" myth; how to handle the "miniature marriage" phenomenon in teen dating relationships and providing consolation when these "marriages" fail; and how to evaluate and select from the methods to manage a child's depression. Sobering, powerful, and essential to understanding the mind of a depressed adolescent, The Depressed Child is highly recommended.

Finally, there is help!
As someone who has experience child and adolescent depression from both directions-having been a depressed child and the mother of a depressed adolescent-I couldn't stop my head from nodding in agreement with each "hopeless belief" Dr. Riley uncovered and addressed in his most recent book, The Depressed Child: A Parent's Guide for Rescuing Kids.I quietly folded the book back together after reading the last chapter, filled with a sense of relief.Finally, there is help out there!Read more

Subjects:  1. Child Care/Parenting    2. Cognitive therapy for children    3. Cognitive therapy for teenager    4. Depression    5. Depression in adolescence    6. Depression in children    7. Family & Relationships    8. Family / Parenting / Childbirth    9. Parenting - General    10. Pediatrics    11. Popular works   

Reviews (12)

I've searched for months...
I got this book many years ago used from a library on a whim, because I liked the cover.I think I lost it when I moved out of my parents' house and broke up with my boyfriend of two years, *of course* the time when I needed it most.I've been searching for months and scouring my brain for the title of this book, and now that I've found it, *sigh*I can feel my wounded heart healing already.It's a fantastic and wacky book, so random, it's absolutely perfect for the scattered-brain effects of post-breakup trauma.

A lesson to learn!
I am glad I read it! I started the book and immediately thought this woman was crazy, a looney, a wack job. After getting a feel for the book I realized that although this woman seemed crazy to me, I related SOME things to her. It's been awhile but years ago I remember going through a break up that was hard to let go. Now, I was in high school and that to me is a teenager thing but I could relate. Different phases, different situations but probably all the same feelings. This book jumps around to different things which keeps you interested on her journeys, all the while learning a little about canning. Something I know NOTHING about. In the end it comes together, it's a amazing how all the jumble of stories, times, thoughts come together to show a lesson learned. Now, I have a feeling each reader will take something completely different from this book, a lesson of some sort!
A Recipe for Mending
Simply stated, one of the best books for healing and growth (and humor) I've ever read...well, to be specific, I've ever read 5 times! It's a simple read, yet keeps your eyes glued to its pages; its voice strikes you right to your core and makes you wonder if it wasn't written solely for you! I've loaned it to friends a million times over, and it's never been received with anything less than pure excitement, relief, pleasure, and appreciation. Great writing, great book, great lessons. It's both practical and spiritual, humorous and poignant, insightful and memorable. It's a book you won't soon forget. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Biography / Autobiography    2. Case studies    3. Cooking    4. Depression    5. Man-woman relationships    6. Methods - Canning & Preserving    7. Psychology    8. Separation (Psychology)    9. Women    10. Cooking / Canning & Preserving   

Subjects:  1. Depression    2. Depression, Mental    3. Psychology    4. Self-Help    5. Treatment    6. Coping with illness