Stephen Bernhardt, author of Have a Heart’s Home, admits he is not a doctor or a “recognized” expert on depression or suicidal thoughts. What he is, however, is a survivor of depression and suicidal thoughts. Logically, that makes him a brilliant choice to write a book like this.
Bernhardt begins with helping readers to understand suicidal thoughts and what can trigger them he then proceeds to techniques to stop those thoughts. He delves into bipolar disorder and goes into how and where to get help for dealing with depression.
The next chapters deal with self-help through your depression, such as learning new problem-solving techniques such as not relying on drugs or alcohol to dull the pain. Or teaching yourself to deal with undue and unresolved (most often from childhood) stress. He also discusses the many beneficial effects of proper diet and healthy exercise on depression.
The final chapters go into more detail about the biology and pathology of depression. Also important is advice on helping a depressed loved one or friend. One of the best things you can do for a depressed loved one is to give them a copy of this book. It is a gentle, non-judgmental way to help them on the road to recovery. Or, if you are the one who needs a little nudge to help you help yourself, run - don’t walk - to your nearest bookstore and buy this book. You’ll be glad you did.