The Wisdom of Depression: A Guide to Understanding and Curing Depression Using Natural Medicine

To a topic about which so much has already been written, psychiatrist Zuess (The Natural Prozac Program) brings an astonishingly fresh view. His holistic approach recognizes depression as ""a natural and healthy response"" to ""difficult emotional challenges,"" a ""built-in healing mechanism."" Unless this healing process is subverted in some way, its outcome, Zuess says, is ""inner transformation,"" as sufferers ""emerge from it stronger, healthier, and more in touch with their wise inner self."" But Zuess admits that subversion is possible, and that the depressed response sometimes evolves into illness (""major depressive disorder"") rather than being resolved. Only then does he advocate the powerful drugs (Prozac, Zoloft, etc.) most conventional psychiatrists offer as a first and often singular treatment. Instead, Zuess proposes use of the natural herb St. John's Wort. For all forms of mild to severe depression, he also suggests a program that includes a physical examination, exercise, sunlight, herbs, vitamins, nutrition, psychotherapy, play, dream analysis, and meditation and relaxation techniques. He also teaches an excellent step-by-step method for creative problem-solving. Offering a knowledgeable examination of the myriad treatments for the epidemic affliction of depression, Zuess's noteworthy book also delivers a brisk introduction to the holistic view of medicine in general. (Sept.)