What sets this book apart from other depression/medication books is that it addresses women's particular concerns, largely neglected by the others. Pregnancy/breastfeeding and medication and weight gain as a side effect of medication are discussed in a sympathetic, informative manner. Essential information about antidepressants and anti-anxiety medication, including side-effects, usual dose ranges and pregnancy ratings round out "When Words Are Not Enough," making it a very complete resource for women.
Men and Depression
I Don’t Want to Talk About It: Overcoming the Secret Legacy of Male Depression, by Terrence Real
This was the first book published that was exclusively about male depression. Real, a therapist, blends his own experience as the son of a depressed father with patient case studies to examine the causes of male depression and its effect on men and their families. This is an important book for anyone who wants to understand male depression and how it differs from depression in women.
Children and Depression
“Help Me, I’m Sad”: Recognizing, Treating and Preventing Childhood and Adolescent Depression, by David G. Fassler
This is a very valuable book for families of depressed children, containing essential information, thoroughly and clearly covered. One section I particularly liked discussed the effect a depressed child has on family members and family dynamics.
"Help Me, I'm Sad" first addresses diagnosing depression in a child, including symptoms lists specific to children at different stages of childhood, infants to teenagers. Companion illnesses that might indicate depression are also discussed as part of the diagnosis section.
The treatment section covers how to find effective treatment, whether therapy, medication or both, including questions to ask a potential therapist. The last section, on preventing depression, contains suggestions on how to raise an emotionally resilient child. All in all, a complete, compassionate resource for parents and others who have a depressed child in their lives.
