Leading psychiatrist/researcher Jesse Wright and his daughter Laura McCray, a family physician, have seen thousands of depressed patients in their practices—and have learned that a range of different treatments work. Infused with warmth, optimism, and clinical know-how, this book presents simple yet powerful depression-fighting strategies that sufferers can try on their own. Drs. Wright and McCray offer a flexible menu of treatment ideas plus clear guidance for creating a personalized antidepression action plan. Aided by helpful worksheets, quizzes, and stories, readers learn ways to break the cycle of negative thinking, restore energy and a sense of well-being, strengthen relationships, and make informed decisions about medications. Now depression sufferers can chart their own path to recovery, using the best tools science has to offer. This title is part of The Guilford Self-Help Workbook Series, edited by Martin M. Antony. Reviews: "This book gave me hope, understanding, and just the right kind of practical help that I need. I really like how it integrates multiple strategies to combat depression." -T. H. "This is a wonderful book. It's right on target. After years of drifting in a fog, this book is helping me to turn my thinking around and enjoy life." -B. W. "This invaluable guide, written by a psychiatrist and a family doctor, is unique in its balanced coverage of psychotherapy, medication, and other treatments for depression. It is clearly written and chock-full of tips and resources. If you suffer from depression, this is the best single book I've seen for you and your family." -Michael E. Thase, MD, coauthor of Beating the Blues "A 'must-have' for those who want to understand and find a way through the pain of their depression. Wright and McCray draw on their clinical skill and wisdom to provide a comprehensive map of the terrain. Outlining different types of depression, they help readers make their own choice about treatment, find the approach that fits best, and integrate it seamlessly into daily life. Sufferers and their loved ones will find in this book just what they need to move forward with hope, and professionals will want to recommend it to their patients." -Mark Williams, PhD, Professor of Clinical Psychology, Oxford University; Director, Oxford Mindfulness Center, United Kingdom "Wright and McCray have compiled a wealth of information about depression—its causes, treatment, and how sufferers can contribute to their own recovery. Drawing on elements of all the proven treatments for depression, the book provides clear guidance and practical steps for those experiencing depression as well as their friends and family members. Because the book is organized in relatively brief but cohesive chapters, readers really can take the one-step-at-a-time approach to resolving depression that Wright and McCray recommend." -Ellen Frank, PhD, Distinguished Professor of Psychiatry and Professor of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine "This valuable book provides clear pathways for overcoming depression. It can be helpful to anybody experiencing depression, whether mild or severe. The authors are both experts in the field." -Aaron T. Beck, MD, University Professor Emeritus of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania Medical School "Drs. Wright and McCray have done something remarkable, even unprecedented. They have taken all of the best self-management strategies for depression and translated them into materials you can use to support your own recovery. This is the first resource of its kind—and it can help you deal successfully with depression." -Frank Verloin deGruy III, MD, Chair, Department of Family Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine "Authoritative and invaluable. Written from the vantage points of both a psychiatrist and a primary care provider, this book is unique in its balanced coverage of psychological, pharmacological, and complementary therapies. It is clearly written and chock-full of tips and resources. I know of no better single book for a depressed person and his or her family." -Michael E. Thase, MD, Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania Table of Contents: Preface Authors' Note 1. Getting Started 2. Medical Illness and Depression 3. Paths to Depression: Paths to Wellness I. The Thoughts-Action Path 4. Fighting Negative Thinking 5. Restoring Energy and Enjoying Life 6. Building Self-Esteem and Using Strengths 7. Enhancing Well-Being II. The Biology Path 8. Getting the Most from Antidepressants III. The Relationship Path 9. The People in Your Life: How Relationships Can Influence Recovery from Depression 10. Managing Relationship Problems to Improve Depression IV. The Lifestyle Path 11. Lifestyle Changes V. The Spiritual Path 12. Using Spiritual Resources VI. The Mindfulness Path 13. Mindfulness 14. Developing a Plan and Making It Stick Resources About the Authors: Jesse H. Wright, MD, PhD, is Professor of Psychiatry and Director of the Depression Center at the University of Louisville, Kentucky. A well-known authority on depression and cognitive-behavioral therapy, he is the author of award-winning books for both the general public and professionals. Dr. Wright was Founding President of the Academy of Cognitive Therapy, is a Fellow of the American College of Psychiatrists, and received the Distinguished Educator of the Year Award from the University of Louisville. Laura W. McCray, MD, practices family medicine in Burlington, Vermont, with a focus on mental health in primary care. She is Clinical Assistant Professor of Family Medicine and Associate Director of the Family Medicine Residency Program at the University of Vermont. A recipient of four Family Medicine Teaching Awards from the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Vermont, Dr. McCray lives in rural Vermont with her husband and young son. She is very pleased to be collaborating with her father on this book. |