Growing from Depression is a counterintuitive, perhaps even provocative title for a self-help guide on depression, but I chose it for what I think are three very good reasons. First, I wanted to challenge perceptions of people with depression. Rather than being 'lazy' or 'losers', they are often among some of the most ambitious, truthful, and courageous of all people. Second, whereas getting ill is never a good thing, depression can present a precious opportunity to recognise and to address difficult life problems. This can lead not only to a better future, but also to a more refined perspective and deeper understanding of one's life and of life in general. Third, and perhaps most obviously, the journey out of depression is one of learning: learning about oneself, of course, but also learning about the many life skills that are covered in this book, skills such as defeating thinking errors, managing stress and anxiety, building confidence and self-esteem, building relationships, eating healthily, and getting a good night's sleep. These skills should not only help you to get better, but also to stay better and to enjoy a better quality of life than ever before.
Dr Neel Burton is a psychiatrist and philosopher who lives and teaches in Oxford, England. He is the recipient of the Society of Authors' Richard Asher Prize, the British Medical Association's Young Authors' Award, and the Medical Journalists' Association Open Book Award. His other books include The Art of Failure and The Meaning of Madness, both also with Acheron Press.