Encountering Depression: Frequently asked Questions Answered for Christians - Softcover

'I just couldn't put it down! This is a 'must have' book and, almost frustratingly, I agreed with every word. Although written particularly for Christians wrestling with a depressive illness, this book will help all working in pastoral care from immediate carers to church leaders. The insights brought by a very experienced priest and counsellor along with those of a gifted Christian psychiatrist (who happens to be his wife) bring a brilliantly complementary and illuminating approach. Many in depression will find hope for tomorrow and gain a confidence in the truth that the valley of a depressive illness will end. There is so much empathy and constructive help offered for the person who is depressed, their family and carers. Chapters are short, recognising concentration is limited. There are enjoyable therapeutic tasks to fulfil. The fear of failure and sense of guilt that depressed Christians inappropriately carry are addressed and lifted. The one who is unwell is put in the driving seat and empowered to make a difference. Difficult issues are tackled, such as 'Where is God in this?', 'Is it the devil?', 'It must be my fault.' I hope this book will be a recommended read for all in ordained ministry and pastoral care and widely available through Church book stalls. I'll see the Burrswood book shop orders a good number right away!' --Dr Gareth Tuckwell, CEO of Burrswood, Christian Hospital and Place of Healing

'There are few books on depression that draw together insights from the fields of pastoral care, biblical teaching and clinical psychiatry with such straightforward clarity and practical wisdom. Written with the every-day needs in mind of those who battle with this condition, 'Encountering depression' is a one-stop resource for both sufferers and carers and all those who seek to offer them pastoral counsel and support.' --Glynn Harrison MD FRCPsych, Emeritus Professor of Psychiatry, University of Bristol

'Many therapists, myself included, have often found their depressed Christian clients among the most difficult to help. For such clients it has often seemed that their belief system and the practice of their faith have proved impediments rather than aids to accepting the reality of their predicament and to finding through it a new humility, a hope which goes beyond despair and a freedom from destructive guilt and stubborn autonomy. Andrew and Elizabeth Procter's book provides a powerful antidote to the false theology and the ingrained attitudes which intensify for many Christians the suffering which depression inevitably brings. In simple and direct language they address key questions, provide a mine of information, offer helpful guidance both to scripture reading and private meditation, and list a host of reliable resources. This is a book not only for Christians who know the burden of depression in their own lives but also for their relatives, friends, pastors and fellow co-religionists. The Procters have provided a treasure house of wisdom which, if taken seriously, could transform many a congregation into a truly empathic community where God's love could permeate into the darkest recesses of the depression experience.' --Brian Thorne, Emeritus Professor of Counselling, University of East Anglia. Lay Canon of Norwich Cathedral

These encouraging thoughts are the starting point of this compassionate and practical volume. In twenty short chapters, it looks at common questions and worries, such as 'What is depression?', 'Does it run in my family?', 'Why doesn't God heal me?', 'Why do I keep thinking of ending it all?' and 'How can I help myself?' After providing key information on each topic in question, the authors offer engaging real-life stories and quotations, material for reflection drawn from biblical and contemporary sources and a simple exercise to try to help the depressed reader feel better. Carers, friends and relatives of those suffering from depression will also benefit from the book, particularly the chapter entitled 'What can I do to help?'