Depression Awareness Week 21 to 27 April

publication date: Apr 23, 2008

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author/source: Anne Coates

In a recent survey carried out by the Depression Alliance some 60 per cent of respondents consider that five aspects of depression have a severe or very severe effect on distress, quality of life, and their ability to perform daily activities. These are: anxiety, loss of interest, low energy, poor concentration and poor sleep.

Feeling depressed can be a very isolating experience and people need to know that help is available and you don’t have to suffer alone! There are several new books which may help sufferers and their families.

The Divided Mind

by John Sarno published by Duckworth Overlook

Dr Sarno has been practising medicine since 1950 and writes here about an epidemic of mind-body disorders and how the mind can be used and trained to heal the body. 

Knowledge and awareness are powerful tools and Dr Sarno includes references to depression and how it may be treated throughout the book.

The Divided Mind: The Epidemic of Mindbody Disorders

The Bipolar Teen

by David J Miklowitz PhD and Elizabeth L. George PhD, published by Robinson

When is it just teenage angst and moodiness or something more serious? The Bipolar Teen will help you:

• get an accurate diagnosis;
• find the right medication and therapy;
• head off and manage mood swings;
• solve school problems and restore peace at home.

The Bipolar Teen

Traditional Herbal Medicines a guide to their safer use

by Dr Lakshman Karalliedde and Dr Indika Gawarammana published by Hammersith Press

This is an excellent reference book if you are interested in herbal medicine  and its safe use. For instance St John’s Wort is a well-known antidepressant but is can interact with other allopathic, prescribed medicines. There is a section on depression and anxiety and lists of herbs which may be used in treatment.

Traditional Herbal Medicines: A Guide to Their Safer Use

The Blissful Brain

by Dr Shanida Nataraja published by Octopus Books

The book explores, through scientific evidence, why meditation as well as yoga and tai chi are so good for reducing stress and depression. According to the author, meditation should be at the heart of our healthcare system!

The Blissful Brain: Neuroscience and Proof of the Power of Meditation (Gaia Thinking)