Depression: A Stubborn Darkness

I have started reading books on depression, only to get bogged down soon after. From the beginning, this one knew what it was talking about. Short chapters, enough information to think over, and doesn't make a person feel guilty for having been depressed in the past.

Insightful. Short chapters make it ideal for small group/support group use. Catalyst for discussion.

Ed Welch has been gifted by God to write in a humble yet powerful manner that grips the minds and consciences of those who read his works. His books including "Depression" challenge our thinking and actions with the authority of Scripture and at the same time he points out the great hope and encouragement that we have from the same Scriptures. He writes in a simple yet profound manner that does not draw attention to himself but directs the readers' attention where it should be: on God. This is an excellent resource not only for those who struggle with "depression" but all people who go through difficulty and suffering in life. I guess that includes all of us.

Dr. Ed Welch has taken some "hits" even from within his own "camp" for this thoroughly balanced and biblical approach to understanding, facing, and dealing with depression. Welch is neither "gaga" over medical diagnoses nor "knee-jerk" reacting against the possibility of medical causes for some depression. In this, he follows in the train of the Church Fathers, the Reformers, and the Puritans who all recognized and even suggested the possibility of physical/medical causes for depression. Welch writes with a rare combination of compassion and challenge, buttressed by his spiritual theology of suffering--a sufferology. This is perhaps the greatest contribution of the book. Readers looking for a thought-provoking approach to depression that addresses spiritual, relational, rational, volitional, emotional, and physical issues, will not be disappointed by "Depression: A Stubborn Darkness--Light for the Path." Reviewer: Bob Kellemen, Ph.D., is the author of "Soul Physicians," "Spiritual Friends," "Biblical Psychology," "Martin Luther's Pastoral Counseling," and "Beyond the Suffering: Embracing the Legacy of African American Soul Care and Spiritual Direction."

This book is the best book on depression I have ever read. What I liked about the book was how hopeful I felt after reading it. This book is the real deal - pointing the reader to valuable Biblical scripture and offering real truth, not just techniques to "feel better". The author seems to have a sensitivity and real appreciation for those suffering with depression or anxiety. Also helpful are the chapters on how to help someone who is suffering from depression. I would suggest this book for anyone in the midst of depression or to give to those who struggle with it.