Depression for Dummies

by Charles H. Elliott, Laura L. Smith, Eric Charles

"What do you have to be depressed about?" Bet you've heard that one before. Or how about, "You're depressed? Just get over it " Easier said than done, right? Or here's a favorite, "They have a pill for that now, you know."

Unfortunately, such na ve armchair psychology rarely works for someone suffering from the very real plight of depression. All it does is seek to trivialize depression and characterize depressed people as "whiners" who have nothing...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0764539000
• ISBN13: 9780764539008
• Release Date: September 2003
• Publisher: For Dummies
• Length: 362 Pages
• Weight: 1.32 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 7.4" x 9.2"

Customer Reviews

Depression for Dummies

This is an excellent book in teaching you what depression is all about and the various types of help that is out there (from self-help to doctors). It is easy to read and I recommend it for anyone who has depression or knows someone with depression.

Extremely helpful introduction to depression

This is a comforting, easy to understand, practical book that is especially good for people who have just been diagnosed or parents with children who've been diagnosed. In a friendly, non-threatening style, the authors describe how to identify the symptoms of depression, lay out the possible treatment options, and offer instructions on how to find the help needed. I especially like the section on alternative treatments for depression. The Resources section is also valuable, with leads to books, websites, and organizations with local chapters such as NAMI.

Very Helpful

I've read several books on depression and I must say that Depression For Dummies is far more practical and easy to read than the others. The exercises are truly useful and applicable to everyday life. I especially liked the section on relapse prevention. I hadn't known that relapse is such a high risk and it seems odd that other books I've seen on self-help for depression barely bring the subject up. If you want serious help with moods and depression I can't think of a better book to recommend.

such a great book- helped me so much!!

My therapist suggested that I read Depression for Dummies. We worked together on some of the exercises and they really helped me. I really liked the way the authors explained how medication worked. Also enjoyed the chapter called "Getting out of bed." Thanks so much!

Smith & Elliott outdid themselves

Excellent job. I will recommend this book liberally to my clients who suffer from depression or have a family member who does. This magical blend of education, empathy, humor, and practical tips will be a perfect adjunct to psychotherapy. Thank you!