Surviving Depression - A Catholic Approach

There is no escaping depression, it is a condition of the human experience. At this time of the pandemic we are in the midst of an even greater manifestation of this illness. The author, Kathryn Hermes, strives to present us with assistance along the lines of this disease. Into this book are woven many individuals’ unique experiences of depression. Those who have struggled through the journey to well-being and wholeness against incredible odds, and have shared their stories should be applauded.Some of the characteristics or details that hit home really mesh with your own experience. People who have suffered depression can learn much from each other’s stories. However, not every experience in the book will be completely like the ones you experience. The reader may feel more or less depressed than the people in the stories. The reader may or may not experience the symptoms told here. Flashes of insight or recognition are not a replacement for accurate diagnosis. The author states that this book is not meant for self-diagnosis and does not address the more critical needs of those who suffer severe or psychotic cases of depression or bipolar disorder. Rather, the book is meant to be a companion to the reader or to a friend of yours, struggling with his or her dark periods of life. Much in our Catholic tradition and in spirituality can offer strength, comfort and powerful insight into this struggle. The book will introduce the reader to the wealth of the words and be with the reader as they find God in new ways along this part of their life’s journey.A new part has been added in this second addition, in these chapters the reader will find eight steps for inner peace that are rooted in scriptural spirituality, in practical wisdom from living in the present and in centering prayer. Learning about depression and reading about spirituality are not enough to bring the reader to the changes that we seek in our lives. A step-by-step process enables those who wish to embark on a journey of personal transformation to more easily find the peace the reader is looking for.The steps to inner peace are a process. Each step begins by introducing a sentence that sums up the growth of that step and can be repeated during the days or weeks in which you are integrating the material into your life. The main part of the process is made up of a scriptural reflection, presentation of the content of the step, and a step-by-step practice guide. The reader is encouraged to work on each step for as long as the reader feels he or she are getting something out of it. When the readers finishes the eight steps, they should be done again so that the reader can solidify the peace gained. The book also has a list of groups the reader can contact for help. The places where one can check out the need for mental health assistance is given freely in this text.

She shares her experience, strength & hope with us. Her truth offered is never preachy or arrogant, or assumed that it should be your truth, too. She offers it up with the humility of Jesus, with her humble, loving heart full of prayer. I do think this is a very unique book, with refreshingly intelligent, compassionate suggestions. I am Catholic, but struggle with faith in general at times and certainly with many aspects of the church, which I simultaneously love. For some reason I was especially touched by hearing peoples personal struggles, esp. the dialogues in prayer. Once or twice, as I read, tears fell; I was so touched. Wisdom can come in small humble packages, like this book,rather than big short commercially advertised books.It's so cheap anyway, it could hardly be a huge loss if one does not care for it. I felt like purchasing some one on one time with a helping Angel.

I bought this book for my sister who is diagnosed with depression to read. She told me that she found this book extremely helpful for her because it made her aware of the many feelings and thoughts that she shared along with many others out there that suffer the same things she does with depression. It helped her to put into words some things with which she was dealing.I purchased this newest version because I read a review which stated that a new chapter had been added, called: Eight Steps To Inner Peace, and I wanted to see what this had to say.I am also ordering the companion piece called PRAYERS for Surviving Depression. This author is one of my favorites. She publishes articles in a Catholic Daily Devotional called Living Faith that I have been reading for many years.

Worth it. Nicely packaged quick delivery new copy

Although this book states the obvious much of the time, it also has gems that go a long way in assisting those who suffer from Depression and want out. Or, at least if they can't get out, find a way to make the survival of depression possible. I recommend this book to all suffers and those who have someone in their families/work/wherever that are depressed. It gives info about the illness and is a how-to for those who who seek to assist the depressed as best they can. One enduring gem is stating what NOT to say to the depressed. Yes, purchase and read.

I have been suffering from depression some 20+ years and so when I saw this book I thought how wonderful it would be to combine spirituality with other tools to help one overcome depression.As I read the book I do admit to feeling disappointed by it... The exercises and meditations are good for those suffering with short-term light depression but if you are someone that suffers from a deep depression then this is not the book for you.I can't knock the author for her attempt at wanting to help others cope with depression by way of spirituality. For that she gets my utmost respect.

I purchased this book after reading some of this authors work in a prayer booklet I read every day. This prayer booklet, Living Word, features a daily reading from various people/authors. It said she was the author of this book. So I looked on Amazon.com and they had the book. I think everyone suffers from a little depression now and then and this book is very helpful. This book addresses most issues and in a very understandable, easy way. This author definately has a Gift. I highly recommend it.

I have been diagnosed with depression and have been seeing a psychiatrist for three years and therapist for six months now. Only recently have I truly accepted the fact that I'm suffering from this debilitating disease. This book has been sitting in my queue for a long time. Since I've been put on medical leave, I finally had the time to read it. What an eye opener! I highly recommend this book to anyone suffering with depression...Catholic or non-Catholic...and to those know of anyone suffering from this illness.

Depression through the perspective of faith is very helpful. In addition a lot of very useful advice that can be incorporated into everyday life.Easy to read. Written by a Sister who has experienced depression herself so has 'lived it'.

I am so glad I kept coming back to it. It is filled with practical nuggets to help. It is also filled with Holy Spirit. As i read , each time that I could, in did not feel alone. Loneliness is one of the heaviest sufferings that come with depression. I hope to re-read it again

very good book, give you a good idea, explanation and insight about depression.