Depression: A Primer by Ellen

This is a great little illustrated book that goes over the depression basics.  So whether you've been recently diagnosed or you want to understand what a loved one is going through, this book is great. She not only covers what depression is like but hits on the different kinds of depression and different kinds of treatments.  A fantastic quick read.

Undercurrents by Martha Manning (long form)

This is THE memoir about depression.  It is amazingly well written to the point of being lyrical. She knows pacing and timing.  All this is from the journals of a woman who has trouble seeing herself as the great counselor she is, yet alone writer.

This book will show you that even your psychologist may have gone on a similar path through the darkness. Everyone is prone to this disease; it does not discriminate.

METAPHORS: Manning’s are mostly water based metaphors. ex: endlessly rowing a boat to shore but making no progress.

She also reinforces:

• You are NOT your depression. You are a person who suffers from depression.
• Sometimes the best help is just from being held and listened to.
• That you are INCREDIBLY strong for fighting so hard and doing so much just to stay.  Every therapy session you go to, every med you take as prescribed is a tribute to your strength and will power.
• That you will get through this!