Mayo Clinic on depression

Review by Booklist Review

Although never diagnosed with depression, since childhood Curtiss has suffered depression-like problems, which she describes in detail. She also explains why she refused drugs. The most engaging aspects of her long book are her accounts of her experiences and of the growth in awareness that led her to "Directed Thinking," the major goal of which is to control not depression but one's reaction to depression; not to find fault (a culpable condition) but to find a remedy consisting of mental processes to employ as soon as the first twinges of depression appear. Developing such processes is a choice, hence the title of Curtiss' hortatory book, which probably will rouse discussion among caregivers, patients, and drug companies. The Mayo Clinic book points out that although the actual causes of depression are not known, several major risk factors for it are. Serotonin and other chemicals can create imbalances in the brain that can lead to depression, drugs can do much for treating depression, and a careful combination of drugs and talk therapy can do even more. Brain-imaging studies have recently brought many new facts to bear on understanding depression, and treatments in the research pipeline may improve outcomes considerably. The Mayo Clinic book also suggests some self-help strategies and argues the value of certain alternative approaches, especially acupuncture. William Beatty

From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.

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Review by Publisher's Weekly Review

The latest in a series of health guides (Mayo Clinic on Managing Diabetes), edited by psychiatrist Kramlinger, offers a useful overview of depression. According to Mayo medical experts, "at some point in their lives, close to one fourth of all Americans will experience at least one episode of depression." With treatment, however, eight out of 10 people will recover and live normal lives. In earlier times, depression was downplayed by many as being "all in your head" and a sign of weakness. In some instances, this stigma still exists and prevents those with this serious condition from seeking help. However, now medical experts treat depressive illness that lasts at least two weeks as a medical disorder. This clearly written manual provides detailed coverage of the types of depressive disorder, available treatments such as medication, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), and psychotherapy, as well as useful suggestions for self-management. Included is an informed discussion on the controversy that has surrounded ECT, as well as the efficacy of emerging drugs like Substance P blockers. Family and friends of those suffering from depression will also find this book helpful in understanding the illness and how to provide support to the patient. Illus. (Oct.) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved

(c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved

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