Self Help Books On Depression: Three Approaches You Can Take As Prescribed By The Available Literature

There is a multitude of available literature on depression. Since depression is the one of the most common mental disorders, it only makes sense that there is a lot to read on the subject. If you would like to read more on your personal diagnosis of depression, there are three approaches that self help books on depression take. One or more of these approaches should guide your choices in reading materials on this major mental health issue and assist you with finding and utilizing some coping tools and treatments.

The Spiritual Approach

Finding your calm center and other mantras come to mind when you decide to read more on how spirituality and a connection to God and/or the universe can help your depression. Some may even refer to this as the "religious" approach because you may spend a lot of time in prayer, meditation or reading of scriptural verses from religious tomes. The self help books on depression that take this approach are more or less guidance books on how to look at your mental health from a spiritual or religious stance, and they also contain information on what spiritual or religious leaders have to say on the subject.

The Biological/Medical Approach

Self-help literature that approaches depression via the biological and/or medical approach addresses the chemical alterations in the human brain and body when you are depressed. The literature often discusses the anatomy and physiology of depression and how modern medicines can change the chemical imbalances in the brain so that you are better able to function. This literary approach also discusses many of the current medications available for persons with depression, their pros and cons, and how these medications alter the chemical state of the brain.

The Psychological Approach

Psychology books on depression go in depth to help you figure out why you are depressed, what triggered your depression, and what behavioral and cognitive treatments can help you change your situation. These books may also discuss suicidal thoughts and tendencies that often accompany depression. These books will help you formulate plans of action when you feel that you might cause yourself harm or when your depression has overwhelmed you and you need some ideas about where you can go for support. They are also useful for learning terminology and understanding approaches your therapist or psychiatrist might use to help you, as well as how to talk to your therapist/psychiatrist on a level that they understand and about which they are very knowledgeable.