If you want to ascend Everest, there are things you need to know. How long will it take, when is the best weather, how much food do I need, what gear is most suitable, who are the best guides? Knowledge gives success. So it is when you find yourself in the valley of depression. Knowing what it is, why it occurs, what makes it better and worse, what strategies exist to manage and overcome it, all give you the best chance of making a great ascent out of this valley of sorrows.
Maybe you struggle with this challenging condition, or have friends or relatives who do. Maybe you are a health professional seeking a helpful approach to depressed patients, or a book you can suggest to them. Maybe your counselor suggested you read this book. Whatever the reason you are reading it, my hope is that you find within these pages a clear outline as to what depression is, and how to overcome it.
I have worked with people suffering from depression for over 25 years. This book is an accumulation of knowledge and understanding derived from books, lectures, colleagues, and especially from listening to my patients. It contains very practical insights into how people get better. It is a tool we counselors can give to our patients so they too can benefit from the accumulated experience and wisdom of others.
You can overcome depression. Many of my patients have been very severely depressed, suicidal, even psychotic, and have recovered. I trust it will help you enormously, as you safely navigate what may well be the toughest journey in your life.