Get It Done When You're Depressed: 50 Strategies for Keeping Your Life on Track

***** This book is incredibly helpful because it helps you to learn practical methods for coping with depression. The subtitle is "50 Strategies for Keeping Your Life on Track", and each strategy is thoroughly explored. First it is explained, then there is a short exercise you can do to apply the strategy to your life. Next the strategy is illustrated in a story from someone's personal life. Lastly, the author shares a story about applying that strategy in her own life. For example, one strategy I found very helpful is "Accept the Limitations Caused By Depression". I expect way, way too much of myself every day and then feel bad when I can't accomplish what I want to. This strategy (and the book in general) helped me to see that I will feel better and get more done in the long run if I don't beat myself up about what I can't do, and if I work the other strategies diligently to do what I can. It really helped that the author is successful and accomplished despite her depression, and the stories show how many, many people work with their illness to make valuable contributions with their lives instead of just giving in to depression and using it as an excuse for failure. It truly made me feel like I wasn't alone---that many others feel this way, and that they organize their lives so that they can still succeed. I have to say that it's the most practical book I've ever read for actually coping with depression. Highly recommended. *****

All of Julie Fast's books are practical and well-written, and this may be her best. Using examples from the lives of people who struggle with depression, she gives realistic, concrete ways to fight the effects of depression, so that the negative spiral of inactivity and hopelessness can turn into a positive spiral of accomplishment and satisfaction. Julie has learned these lessons the hard way, and this book is proof that her methods work. The personal stories are backed up by her co-author, a psychologist, who provides a more physiological explanation of both symptoms and why Julie's strategies are effective. When depression of any kind (including bipolar) is the problem, it's crucial to know how to counteract its symptoms with behavior, as well as medication. This book gives readers the tools to take charge of their lives. It's not the usual advice from experts looking down from the top of the well. It's a strong rope, each chapter a foothold to use for climbing out.

I have read every textbook, self help book, etc. and was still beating my head against a wall until I read this book. I can tell you that chapter 11, Expect Brain Chatter, was the answer to prayer. I don't know what it was about this specific chapter, but it opened up serious dialogue after 14 years of marriage. This chapter gave me a simple way to explain the on-going dialogue and loop of music in my head and why it is so painful.

Julie has done it again. Her latest book provides down to earth advice that everyone can use. How many of us, depressed or not, have found it difficult to complete projects and just "get it done"? I've already applied one of her motivational tools to great effect and have seen a dramatic increase my writing output. Thank you, Julie!

Julie Fast's 'Get It Done When You're Depressed' is exactly the book I've been looking for to offer my therapy clients struggling with indecision and inertia. The book is written in a clear, no-nonsense manner that is easy to read and understand--important considerations when writing for people whose emotional pain may make it difficult to focus. 'Get It Done' is loaded with realistic suggestions that will be useful to anyone no matter how 'well' or 'ill' they may be. Thanks Ms. Fast I needed this!