Information for new NHS patients
Depression
Back from the Bluez: Coping With Depression
Excellent course of nine pdf modules which can be obtained free from this Australian website. Information is provided along with lots of strategies to better manage depression.
Depression: An Information Leaflet
NHS publication giving basic facts about depression. Also answer common questions such as “What causes depression?”, “What treatments are available?”, etc.
Produced by the Newcastle, North Tyneside and Northumberland Mental Health NHS Trust.
Depression and Low Mood: A Self Help Guide
Another excellent guide from the Newcastle NHS Trust. We recommend that this is worked through with your therapist (if you have one).
Produced by the Newcastle, North Tyneside and Northumberland Mental Health NHS Trust.
Antidepressant Skills Workbook
This detailed self care programme has been produced by the University of British Columbia in Canada. In our opinion it is an excellent self-help guide for people with mild to moderate levels of depression.
Recommended Books
Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy
David Burns (1980) Avon Books
Probably one of the best self-help books for depression based on cognitive behaviour therapy. In fact, research has suggested that reading this book alone (and doing the exercises) has a significant antidepressant effect which is still noticeable three years later. (Dr Burns does however also add that some depressed people need the additional help of a therapist). This updated version also has a good advice section on antidepressant drugs.
Overcoming Low Self Esteem
Melanie Fennell (1999) Constable and Robinson
Another book from the excellent Overcoming series – this one is a very readable description of the problems of not liking and valuing yourself and offers a practical step by step approach to “learn the art of self acceptance” and to change your life for the better.
Overcoming Depression (New Revised Edition)
Paul Gilbert (1997) Constable and Robinson
This book is becoming a standard book. It is very comprehensive, covers a vast range of information and presents many skills and strategies to combat depression. Read all of the 5-star reviews on Amazon.
Interesting Websites to Visit
Net Doctor
A good British site covering general health issues. The depression section is particularly impressive. The site also has a thriving community which provides an excellent resource for support and advice. The articles about various aspects of depression are particularly clear and useful.
Dr Ivan’s Depression Central
A comprehensive and detailed site dedicated to depression. This should be useful to patients and mental health professionals alike.