Healing From Depression: 12 Weeks to a Better Mood
By Douglas Bloch

Douglas Bloch has written a strong book on a tough subject: what it's like to endure suicidal suffering. Healing From Depression: 12 Weeks to a Better Mood, (2000, Published by Pallas Communications) provides an insider's description of mental illness, the treatments one receives and what the interior journey to recovery can be like. Drawing from the world's literature, history and his own personal struggle with depression and crippling anxiety, Bloch offers not only hope and encouragement to other sufferers, but weaves together the known medical facts, good advice from a variety of sources and practical suggestions for recovery. He also addresses non-responders to traditional therapies and reminds us that mental illness is a highly individual experience.

Bloch's personal description of his journey into hell and learning to bear the unbearable pain sets the stage for an excellent review of the many faces of depression, its root causes and the stigma that kills. Block's resource lists are complete and his direct, personal approach to suicidal suffering and what to do about it should provide inspiration to the vast majority of untreated and under-treated people suffering from depression. By highlighting the co-occurrence of anxiety with depression, Block does a great service to those who think depression is always a stand-alone illness.

This well-written book includes excellent graphics, photos, quotes and sidebars loaded with useful information. When Going Through Hell... should also prove educational to providers of health care and family members.

Review by Paul Quinnett