Book Recommendation - Landing,NJ

I hear that the new Opra book club book is a good one...I think it's called something like"A new Earth"

Good Luck

Ask and it is Given by Esther and Jerry Hicks. The processes in the book are unique and really work.

Hey J.,
I didn't read all of the responses so you may have gotten this recommendation already, but the book The Secret is GREAT!!! Teaches you how to start thinking more positive. It's also nice b/c it's one of those books that you could easily pick up and read just a page before going to bed at night. Good luck!!
E.

The best books that helped me was... believe it or not, the Bible (esp the books of Proverbs and Psalms, and Ephesians, Colossians, and Phillippians and I have been thru a lot of therapy before I realized much of it was a waste of money and time. and all therapist do is "talk therapy" (cognitive therapy, one and the same) and you can get that FREE from a good friend. but what really helped was taking control of my own eating habits and getting rid of the junk food and drugs.

I will tell you what one good therapist said to me; she said, "we help you discover YOUR problems, GIVE you a solution, but guess what? You have to still solve your problems". I logically thought, hey, I know what my problem is, and I know of many solutions, but the problem is many times its other people in your life that screws up your ability to solve the problem. What I did find out, that did help, was to have less people in my life, the better. And guess what? that works on any problem, having less is more for you.

I also learned to NOT volunteer unless it feels good for me. And also good medical Dr will rule out if its a health issue that is causing the mental problems, which many times are caused by many small medical problem. I learned that after I had seen over 11 therapist. and I also learned that all therapist also have issues. and there is no such thing as a perfect. or normal mental frame of mind, for we are all sinners,were all dysfunctional until we come to realize we need a savior and that many therapist feed off their clients, which is just as parasitic for they are in business to make money off of you. They re worst teachers and I also come to the conclusion there is no better books out there that can help you, for I read them all trying to learn how to help myself, and the best help I got was in confession to the L*RD. Confession is good for the soul , mind and body. I will also tell you I learned all learned by taking psychology course in College. As for borderline depression.......all depression is due to some loss. Loss of life, loss of friend, loss of health, loss of sleep, or event he inability to be outside to get vitamin D. I had long term depression and finally learned after 11 years it was due to my inability to digest lactose in milk and get enough vitamin D, which is called the sunshine vitamin. I had 24, you supposed to have 40 minimum. Now I take lactase to help digest the milk lactose and I also take a 1000 (thousand) milligrams of vitamin D. I also learned I had a thyroid / adrenaline problem because of not getting enough sleep. Which affected my immune system. Now I take adrenaline and thyroid supplements (raw thyroid and adrenaline) both help depression also . I learned all this by going to a Dr who specialized in "hard cases" and all natural healing thru food supplementation and herbs. and for once in my life (since 2003) I have had health, and all help prevent me from dying last October . Not getting the right nutrients, sleep and feeling in control can make one depressed. I hope and pray you find what your real problem is, but you wont find the answers except from analyzing your whole life. How you eat, how you sleep, how you get happy etc. I journaled for three years before I realized what I needed. Books can help but what really helped me was having someone that went thru what I went thru and a good Dr. Prayer helps me a lot. I learned thru my journaling that I was not getting certain foods, greens and milk products, plus I also consumed too much sweets. I was hyper. One has to get al the veggies and fruits, plus grains, nuts, meat on a daily basis. Many times we consume more sweets because were not getting time to eat properly. Change your eating habits and you will find your less stressed and less depressed.
One can have depression as a new mother too, having had three children, I understand how a person can feel the loss of ones own identity as a person. Just being a mother was not enough for me, I wanted more out of life. and al I became was a no body, a MOMMY this and a Mommy that. Many tiems that is where depression first coems as a bew motehr has to adjust to being MOMMY. A job that is many times a thankless and hopeless drudgery when you were so sued to being independant and all fo a sudden yu realize you lost the freedom you once had as an individual. Its the worst for many new mothers feel this loss and their individuality as well.Its when depression first sneaks in, but what gets you beyond that is having a man that reinforces his love for you and the kids Not alway easy, but what helps is not a book as much as giving each other time ( of importance). Never underestimate the power of words, saying I love you to your looved ones. IT can help much better than any book. Kindness to a New Mother! Hope this helps. S.

Simply said, I have to suggest the bible.

A (or The) Purpose Driven Life

Book: Self Matters by Phillip C. McGraw, Ph.D.

-What if there is a You that has never seen the light of day, has never got to say "Hey What About Me"?
-What if you discovered that you had settled for what life has served up instead of what you really wanted and needed?
-What if you think and feel things you have never allowed to come out and certainly never acted on?

The above is an example of the various situations that we all encounter and become lost in our frustration. This is a great book for starters especially when you are raising two small children. You lose alot of yourself, believe me, I went through a period of depression when my kids were young. I had no one to talk to. My husband spent countless hours working day and night.

It is great that you recognize your situation and are willing to ask for help. I wish I would have done that. It would have saved me alot of grief.

You can also take a walk to a book store and plan to spend at least 1 hour searching through inspirational books. Just ask someone in the store to help you search for a book that will help a friend in need. I hope this will help you.

You Can Be Happy no Matter what by Richard Carlson.
Success Principles by Jack Canfield

If it's a physical problem, you may need to supplement or detoxify. Listen to the recording on www.ncdpro.com/detoxqueen to learn about detoxification. Toxins affect your brain and how you think. If you are lacking in amino acids or healthy bacteria, the same applies. My phone number is on the site if you want to take advantage of a free consultation.

S.

Hi J.. I'm not sure what your religious beliefs are. But I enjoy watching Joel Osteen on television on Sunday mornings and reading his daily inspirations that I receive every morning in my inbox. I became a more positive and happy person by going to church and hearing a good word from my pastor. I've learned that as horrible as my situations may have been, there are people who are dying to be in my position. I can see, walk, hear and smell. I have healthy children and no major illnesses myself. Sometimes money isn't always available, but I find ways to have fun with my three children. Something like playing with a balloon brings a lot of excitement to children. Seeing them happy makes me happy. Otherwise, find something that you really enjoy doing and devote a certain amount of time to it. I hope this helps J..

Hi J.,
I see you have lots of responses and I will be brief.
First of all, you have my deepest sympathies.
Give yourself time to grieve. Maybe a ritual prayer at night would give you permission to have your day to get your life back on track a bit.
Exercise. More than you expect. Your body holds your sadness and you need to work it out.
And then, know that your Mom will be with you always.
God Bless.

Books are a great resource, but please also consider other factors: you're a mom with 2 little ones, make sure you get some time to yourself (even 1/2 hour every day); develop a strong base of positive friends, who can help support you during this time; also, try yoga. Yoga is amazing & has saved my life. It will help to relax yet strengthen your physical body, calm your mind, and help give you new perspective. I can't recommend it enough. If you're really looking for a book, try A GIFT FROM THE SEA. It's easy to read, and gives a loving perspective on life from a woman's point of view. It's by Anne Morrow Lindberg. GOOD LUCK!

I have read The Secret, and I think it is one of the greatest read theropy books. It teaches you how to be positive and stay positive. Being a single mother of three and working full time, trying to keep my family and life going. There has been many bumps in the road over the last few months. It has helped me tremendously.

Well, it's a pretty short book, but has a great meaning. Really makes you see things a little different. "Who moved my cheese?"

Hi J. - I agree that there's no shame in seeking help or taking medications when necessary. I know others who benefited tremendously from them. Remember, you don't necessarily have to take them forever. SOmetimes your body can just get unbalanced at times and the meds help get you get back on track. As for books, I loved "The Secret" and the Oprah book recommended earlier. Sometimes, just learning a different way to look at things is helpful. I hope you find everyone's posts helpful.

I don't have any books that come to mind but do have an avenue you might want to pursue. Have you ever thought about seeinig a nutritionist? I work for the #1 nutriion company in the US and the stories I have heard of people with bipolar and other major mental illness recovering greatly after changing their diet are really moving and amazing. Its worth pursuing. Good for you looking for different alternatives!

Hi I highly recommend a book-- Loving God with All Your Mind by Elizabeth George. Our ladies at church are reading it and it has helped me so much. I'm only on chapter 4. It's EASY reading and very helpful. She tells how she was helped with depression and her life was changed. think on what is true and real. Please let me know if you get this book. I pray that you get it. God bless Kay

I have two books that come to mind. The first is Simple Abundance by Sarah Ban Breathnach and the other is My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers. If it's your children that are contributing to your unhappiness you may find these two books to be helpfull, How to Behave So Your Children Will, Too! by Sal Severe and The Tao of Parenting by Greta Nagel. I hope at least one of these helps you a little or that you find something else that will. I've always found a little exercise helps clear my mind when I'm feeling down. Even some simple yoga stretching usually helps. Goodluck!

8 Steps To Create The Life You Want by Dr. Creflo A. Dollar
To sample his writing you can read some of his articles from his website at http://www.creflodollarministries.org/Public/Bible/Bible-...
He's been a blessing to me!!!

Hi J.,

The Bible is great, especially the book of John and many of the Psalms. The Power of Positive Thinking by Dr. Norman Vincent Peale is also good. Hope this helps, I know it takes time to get better.

S.

There is a book called "The Four Agreements" that really made a big difference for me. Hope it helps

The Power of Now totally changed my life. By Eckhart Tolle and also the The New Earth by him are amazing. The Four Agreements and any book by Mariannne Williamson and Wayne Dyer. Good luck and God Bless.

I don't have a book to recommend, but just know that you are not alone with the depression and I give you so much credit for recognizing it and dealing with it. Good luck my friend.

Kim

I highly recommend the 'Four Agreements' by Don Miguel Ruiz. He has a series of books but this is the best one to start with. It's an easy read and focuses on living by 4 basic principles to lead you to living a life in "heaven" while here on earth. I don't read at all but was given this book by a friend and have sworn by it for years. It can be found in the "New Age" section of most book stores.

I haven't read it, but I hear "The Secret" by Rhonda Byrne is a book that has changed people's lives.

HI J.. Funny you should ask, I just bought a book not too long ago. it is called how to change your brain. It is all about rerouting your brain with more positive thoughts to be a better rounded happier person. It is a very easy read i think and the ideas it has given me seem to be working so far?

hi lady - looks like you have alot of options already but i thought id throw in a couple more that i turn to when feeling blech! "ask and it is given"(this gives you some great excersizes to help you deal with yourself no matter how gloomy) and "conversations with god"
(FYI i am not a religion participator,more of a spiritualist and these two books were not too overtly religious in any way - for me it is important, i find religion to be a turn off.)
to each their own!
peace, A.

You don't want to get depressed so attack it from all angles. I took vitamin B12 and that got me out of a depression but the downside is I gained a few pounds. But once I felt that it wasn't neccessary to take it anymore I lost the weight and have no depression.

Another thing that worked is Anxiet-ease. It's a tonic that is all natural and defintely helps when in moments of crisis.

Books: The Secret, and Louise Hays has a bunch of books that are spiritual. I haven't read any but heard good things.

Take care,
A.

Celestine Prophecy, by James Redfield...It really helped me to figure things out, and to get rid of the negativity in my life.

Check out Joel Osteen. He is a great motivational speaker and is all about being the best you that you can be. He is a born again Christian minister, but he doesn't make you feel like he is shoving religion down your throat. He has two best selling books and a show on Sunday mornings at several times. I hope you give him a chance as I know several people that listen to him and it is amazing the difference it has made.
Good luck. Being a mom to two young children is hard work. Make sure you are getting enough rest and keeping yourself hydrated.

I would highly recommend The Power of Now by Eckert Tolle and Ask and it is Given by Esther Hicks.

S.

The Secret! It shows you how to attract the good and the positive.

There is a great book called "Soul Mapping". It won't fix your outlook on things, but it will help you identify the exact things you want to change in your life, and make it very easy to identify the steps you need in which to do it. I never even got past Chapter 3 the first time I read it, before I figured out exactly what I needed to do. However, if you are borderline depressed, don't underestimate the power of a great therapist. Good luck!

Read the Bible! If we emulate Jesus Christ how could we NOT be happy!

J.
I just heard about one on Oprah. I think it's called A New Earth?
Good luck!

Though I support reading up on a topic, especially if it is a medical condition that impacts you, I encourage you to take a step back and look at your life overall. Depressive symptoms can be alleviated through diet changes, exercise, exposure to the sun (lightboxes in winter), and reducing stress. We all try to be supermom and when we do not live up to our own expectations and overburden ourselves we are vulnerable to depressive symptoms. You may want to talk with your family doctor since depressive symptoms can overlap with other physical health conditions that would benefit from medication intervention. Depression often has a seasonal component due to the lovely winter weather and hours of darkness we get in the Northeast. A website/program that I often refer people to for support in making life changes is www.solutionsforwellness.info This site primarily focuses on diet and exercise for overall wellness and the program is free. I also recommend www.whatadifference.org which links you to the SAMHSA site that has a ton on pertinent information and can link you to the National Mental Health Information Center which has free publications on-line. Good luck!

Hi, I am a mom of 3 (12, 10 and 9) and have suffered from depression for 15 years or so. I consider myself an expert of sorts.

Things that worked for me were definitely books. Try to read as many books about depression so you get an understanding of what is happening to you. It sounds like you may have "situational depression" meaning that having 2 small children has sent you into a funk and you are feeling depressed. Raising a young family can be overwhelming to say the least.

A few books that I found helpful were:

The Mask of Motherhood by Susan Maushart (you'll realize that you are not alone)
Depression free for Life by Gabriel Cousens, MD
Depression and Natural Medicine by Rita Elkins

Exercise everyday is a must when feeling down. It really helps!

I have tried the therapy route many times and sometimes it was helpful and sometimes not. I finally found someone who was a mother and who had suffered from depression and she was the best. But a good friend, someone you trust is just as good.

The last resort is medication. It takes a long time to find the right medication but in my case the right medications saved my life. I suffer from not only biological depression (it's hereditary), I suffered from "situational depression" too. I had 3 children under the age of 3, moved to the US from London and lost a sister all within a few months.

I know this has been a long email but depression and young mothers don't mix and I have lived with this for a long time and am often told I am one of the sanest people my friends and family know. I hope this has been helpful.

L. S

I don't really have any books that I can suggest, however I watch Jon and Kate plus 8 and that really helps, along with getting out and having playgroups. I as well suffer from depession and don't want to take medicine at this point. So I joined a mom's group, watch as much funny TV as I can, rent movies, and have some help once or twice a month, that has really helped me. The playgroups can be at your house, and it makes you get dressed etc. Good luck, there are a lot of out there that are suffering with this and being a mom is not the eaiest job. Take care, Alison

The Dalai Lama's "Art of Hapiness" is very good. I listened to it on CD in the car on my way to and from work. It helped me put things in perspective and pay more attention to the little joys in life.

Mindfulness meditation has also helped me a lot with my mild depression. John Kabat Zinn's "Everywhere you go there you are" was good car "therapy" as well.

Good Luck.

There is a book and DVD available called "The Secret". I have seen the DVD and it has made a big impact on my life. There is also a free on-line course available that I have since listened to. Very worthwhile. Hope that helps! M.

i don't have a book reccomendation but I do highly reccomend therapy. A therapist is someone who will listen to you without passing judgement. I have sought therapy at different points in my life and it really helped me get to the route of my feelings so I can learn to control them better. i had a really good psycho-analyst that did dream analysis with me and went through my journals with me. she guided me in making personal realizations - sometimes the sessions were unpleasant but i usually felt a lot better after the release and eventually became a calmer, happier, less anxious, more patient person. i would give it a try - it can't hurt.

There is a book by the name of THE FIVE LOVE LANGUAGES that really helped me with not only my marriage, but all relationships I have. I don't know if they are the root of your problem or not, but I would recommend it to anyone. Good luck and God bless you and yours.

Hi J. O:

I would recommend a couple of books by Joyce Meyer:

1) Battle Field of the Mind
2) Managing Your Emotions Instead of your Emotions Managing
You
3) Staight Talk Overcoming Emotional Battles with the Power
of God's Word

I'm sure these will help. God bless!

V. G

hi, J.. one book i always run to whenever i am a bit down and out is the PSALMS in the Bible. you may go thru one each day i.e. start today with psalms 1 then tomorrow psalms 2 and so on. just savor each word written there...may the Holy SPirit guide you through...bless u. mrv, philippines

Find Joyce Meyer on Tv, she's on several times a day. She changed my life complertely. You don't have to send her money or buy her books, but her conferences on tv are so positive and upslifting. Sometimes she's just sits in a chair and interviews other religious leaders. I skip those episodes, but when she's on stage "preaching", it is wonderful, funny and insightful. Even if you disregard the religious aspect (which you shouldn't), it is sound psychological advice that works in the real world. I think you'll enjoy her.

Hello J.,

I have tried many books on positivity, recently a friend recommended I try a DVD/Book called "The Secret" which I found to be refreshing as it was different from the others, great for inspiration and seemed to simplify how we can be happier!

I hope this helpsand wish you well!

Bests,
J.

Read the secret by Rhonda Byrne. it really works. The power of attraction is great. By looking at my files, you can see that I know depression. But in reading the books, or listening to Cd's or watching the movie. You will understand. I have a stress related illness. I lived the secret and poof Gone. no more steroids. My daughter moved home and I had little time to myself (she wont listen to the cds in the car) and now its back and I am taking steroids again. it works... look it up online

I know this may sound cheezy, but try Oprah's most recent Book Club choice....Eckart Tolle's 'A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose'. I have been on a journey myself of trying to find ways to be a happier, more positive person. I was always tenuously holding on to a good mood which could be squashed at any moment for any number of simple things. Kinda thought I might not be the nicest person to be around sometimes. Anyways, I've been working on this 'issue' for years, and have read a number of things and this book really opened my eyes, and gave me a new perspective on life, and a 'light' inside that helps me with everything...period. So give it a shot....it only takes a couple of bucks and some time. Hope it helps you as much as it did me. Good Luck

"Happiness is an Inside Job" by Sylvia Boorstein Phd.is a very reader friendly book. Another book which may be helpful is "When Things Fall Apart" by Pema Chodron. Many of Chodron's talks are available on CD which is great to put on while in the car, which is wonderful for anyone who has limited free time to sit and read. I hope this is helpful to you!

The power of now by Eckhart Tolle or a new earth by the same
author in fact anything by him will help you tremendously. I buy his books on cds and listen on my ipod while riding the train.I recently bought Through the open door, a two cd set that i just love. Barnes and Nobel carries most of his stuff. He also has a website www. eckhart tolle.com.

Good luck.

F.

i don't have a book to recomend but i wanted to leave a message for you. i've been there and read a ton of books all saying the same stuff. exercise(even if you don't want to, get plenty of light, and recomended sleep(7-8 hr a night). find something you enjoy doing that gets your mind off things. i know it's hard when your depressed but you have to just do it. one more thing find someone you can talk to a support person it may be the one thing that keeps you from therapy(most of the time all you do is talk anyway and it's to someone you don't know you)
if the above stuff don't help, therapy may be what you need along with meds. there's nothing wrong with getting help if you need it and some depression is a chemical impalance, a vitamin deficency, sleep apnea, or other medical issues that only a doctor can treat. i hope this helps!

The Secret and
Eat Pray Love

Some books that have really helped me recently are "The Voice of Knowledge" and "The Four Agreements" by Don Miguel Ruiz, "The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success" by Deepak Chopra. Also books by Wayne Dyer and Eckhardt Tolle would probably be good but I haven't read their books.

Hi J.,

This is the first time I've posted on here, but I was drawn to your request. I've always been a very happy person and encountered much hardship in the last 2 years, so I understand your depression (I'm back to my old, happy self now :-). I am currently reading a wonderful book: Happy For No Reason by Marci Shimoff. You can even get it on Amazon or eBay for less than retail. It is a great book with lots of good advice and even some exercises and worksheets. On a personal note, don't beat yourself up so much, I heard an actual statistic that a mom with 2 kids under the ages of 5, has one of the most stressful jobs in the world.

All the best,
A. Higgins
www.StartSucceedingFromHome.com
Healthy Family - Healthy Home - Healthy Income

Hi J.,
I recently read Dave Ramsey's Total Money Makeover. It gave me a new focus on my life, one that has me goal oriented for my family as well as for those things important to me. I wish you well.
L.
www/LiveTotalWellness.com/L.

Hi J.,
You need to look for a book that suits your soul. If you have some time to spend in a nice big bookstore like Border's or Barnes and Noble's (you could bring children along to the children's section) and find something in the daily meditation section, A Woman's Way , or one of the Chicken Soup Books might be nice. Another option is a humor break - get some joke books to LAUGH with your children. Something silly is great ..ask the store attendant..or in the grown up section - if you prefer. Another excellent area is the magazine rack area - to find something of your own interest - or develop a new one.
Personally, a women's book group sometimes run thru a church or library- or support group run thru your local hospital or woman's help center, or a play group - would be an option I would seek out - because I find socialization to be very self-nurturing.
Best of luck!
Florence

I'm not sure if it's a book you need. I was a little depressed when I first had my son so I told my doctor and he suggested an anti depressant. I was so against it at first because I'm not the kind of person to take anything like that but let me tell you boy did it changed my life. I only stayed on it for about 7 months and I've been fine ever since I got off it. Overall I would consult your doctor and see what he suggest for you.

The secret, buy the CD's or buy the short film online.

There is a book also, but the visuals & auditory I feel are much better and you can always pop in the cd when you drive.

I hope it eases some of your ailments

Hi J., I read that depression is caused by lack of potasium and hormonal changes, eat bananas and chocolate, helps a lot!! also exercises are excellent to fight depression. Hope it helps you, good luck!!

Hi!
Try The Secret. Should help.
Best of luck!

THere are many books out there..but a little bit on other stuff you can do

Join some clubs, like book clubs or other interests like knitting, crochet, quiltaking, ceramics/pottery...to "talk" to other folks

Vitamin D 2000 IU helps with mood stabilization and so do walnuts a few a day.

People, sharing, being out is one of the best ways.

regards, mm

Oprah.com is doing a free class on this very thing on the book called A New Earth. I have not read it yet but it is supposed to be amazing. Check out her site for more details. I hope this helps!

J., you really need to read or watch The Secret. It has totally transformed my life over the past year! Check out their website: www.thesecret.tv. It is so inspirational!

Another thing that really helped me was the business I started. I was really depressed working all day and being away from my 2 year old daughter. I started this and was able to leave my job in 6 months and I'm living the life I've always wanted! You can check out my website: www.mariatargi.myarbonne.com.

M. Targi
Area Manager
Arbonne International
###-###-####
www.mariatargi.myarbonne.com

Hi J.
I have found that the root of the depression is or are areas in your life that you are not happy about. You may be feeling unfullfilled, or feeling like you are juggling too much and therefore feeling overwhelmed by it all; resulting in feeling delinquent in certain areas. I would sugges first being able to put a finger on the cause of the depression then specifially finding a motivational book to address the negative topic or area. For instance, if you are feeling unfullfilled professionally, find a book about dealing with that weak area. I have found working and parenting very stressful, so I started thinking of ways to create a more flexible schedule. I bought several books on starting a small business, and in the next few months I will be embarking on this. I just gave my three month notice to my boss yesterday. I will be leaving at the end of May to start my own business where I create my own schedule and I can spend time with my children without feeling guilty. In the area of not being a great wife, I have often just researched ways to improve myself. The most important thing J. is nurturing yourself. Find something you like to do and do it. Find a hobbie, find something that you can feel proud of or that relaxes. As a wife and mother, we tend to forget to nurture ourselves. First, start with identifying your sad area and then find ways to improve or help yourself there. I hope you find this helpful.

Hi J.,
I haven't read many books on this topic, but I do have 2 recommendations. The first is Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert. It's not a how to book per se, but I found it to be inspirational and thought provoking. Plus, I really loved how it was written- you felt like your best girlfriend was talking to you. I loved it so much that I read it in 3 days (that's pretty good considering my son was a little over a year at the time). The other book I would recommend is Oprah's latest book club selection A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's purpose by Eckhart Tolle. I haven't finished this book yet, but I am loving it. In a nutshell it's about how to get in touch with your own spirituality and therefore find inner peace and happiness. I am loving it so much that I plan to read his other books as well.

I wish you the best of luck!

"Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light." Matt. 11:28-30

Nothing has made me happier and more positive than reading the Bible and getting to know God. Books are great and helpful, but God created you and knows who you are and what you need, and what you lack. If you do get a Bible I would recommend starting in the New Testament or in Psalms (very calming). Also you could get a children's Bible if you find an adult one too overwhelming. :) I don't always have a lot of time to read these days, but I do read my kids a children's Bible almost every night and they love it and it is great for me too. :)

Hope this helps! Just a note though...if you are really depressed and need therapy, GO! Don't be afraid or ashamed of that at all. God bless you and your family.

The best book to ever read is the Bible. Start with Psalms and Proverbs. Your heart will find peace and the joy of living that only God can provide to any of us.

Oprah's Book club has a book called "A New Earth" by Eckhart Tolle I have not read it yet, I just ordered it yesterday. Check it out, it may be what you are looking for.

hi J.. I'm jo. mom of 2 boys. 2 and 4. you need to read "The Precious Present" by Spencer Johnson. it's a short story. you can read it in the store. stay positive think nice things.

Chicken soup for theo soul does wonders. There are many of them out there you just need to find the one that soothes you. Very inspirational.. Good luck

Simple Abundance, by Sarah Ban Breathnach, changed my life.

The Bible is God's love letter to you. He created you and knows all about you. When you read His instruction manual and by faith respond accordingly you will see a big change. I suggest reading the book of John first....then maybe Phillippians which is about rejoicing always and being Thankful! He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him...God bless, C.

There is this one book my mother gave me a year ago called Hope and Help for your Nerves. I don't remember the author off the top of my head but it discusses anxeity and depression and the book really helped me. I do believe they have it on amazon.com. I've been thru depression with and without anxiety. If you need to talk, you know where to find me!

I think the Dalai Lama's The Art of Happiness is great. Also new work on neuroplasticity and how changing our thoughts changes our brain structure and the chemicals our brains produce: Train your Mind, Change your Brain http://www.amazon.com/review/R3TZ7E4HVQ4SYD
Good for you for wanting to change for the better. I am also working on this.

J., I suffered for years with the blues, mood swings, outbursts of anger and being extremely negative. It got worse about 2 years ago when my oldest left for college. Finally, after tired of not being myself and not having anything to be depressed about, I told my regular doctor on a check up visit. (My ob/gyn thought I would benefit from birth control pills for the last 4 years, and not only didn't it help, I gained 10 pounds). My internist said I was depressed and gave me Lexapro.....I was so tired of not feeling like myself, I gave in and began taking it in November. I now, after 8 years feel like my old self. I had no idea I was clinically depressed. My household is completely different, I don't sweat any of the small stuff, handle the important stuff much better 100% more positive about everything and everyone sees the difference. So my point is, don't let it go too long, it may be something chemical and there is no shame in anti depressants. Hope you feel better. N.

There are lots of books out there, and you should find one that "speaks" to you. I'd go to Borders and read the backs of as many as you need to until you find one that moves you to buy it. They're all so different! I really enjoyed one called "God On A Harley" (by Joan Brady) about de-stressing, relationships, and the importance of loving yourself. I also really liked "The Greatest Miracle in the World" (by Og Mandino) and the sequel "The Return of the Ragpicker". Both were very inspirational. But, it really depends on where you are in your life and what's getting you down. I also STRONGLY suggest YOGA. Find a studio, rather than a gym, and take a beginner yoga class that teaches breathing and relaxation as part of the practice. It's an amazing experience if you really let yourself get into it. And, by the way, therapy is not a bad thing! It often helps to talk to someone, and just get it out... I wish you great success in your life. Try to remember that you are a gift to this world who has brought two more gifts into this world already, and I'm certain just by your reaching out, that you have so much more to offer us all!

Hi J.

Go to LTFChurch.com and click on the video segment titled Free From Anxiety and Fear, which is the root of depression.
It will help you tremedously.

Let me know how you make out.

N.

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0380731762/o/qid=9...

Feeling Good by Dr. David Burns takes a cognitive behavioral approach; I've used this book as a tool during times when I was in cognitive behavioral therapy.

"Calm My Anxious Heart" is the first one that comes to mind. I went through a stint of feeling a little overwhelmed and read about a dozen or so books. I will look them up and get back to you.

Hi J....I don't have any different recommendations than the ones already previously mentioned, but I have read "The Art of Happiness" & that was a very inspirational book & I've heard amazing things about "The Secret" & "The New Earth"...many of the selections encourage the power of positive thinking & visualization. I want to applaud your bravery in posing the question & want you to know that you're most definitely not alone in the struggle of overcoming depression. All I can say is hang in there & embrace the little things daily...remind yourself that there are so many reasons to be happy, try not to focus on the negative. Good luck!

Oprah has a little book,"What I know for sure". Very short but it makes you think and can change your thinking to a more positive outlook. She went through a lot and she is very open about everything, telling how her friends and her new way of thinking helped her to get over it.(Check Amazon.com. About .90c to $3.00)

Also get yourself a journal and write your thoughts down. This will help you to understand yourself and what is going on inside, then and only then will you be able to help yourself. Faith, prayer and meditation, regardless of whatever higher power you believe in is also a great way to escape. Listen to yourself, listen to what your heart is saying, write it down and try to find out what is the root of it all. Find a friend you can be completely open with and talk it out daily. Find jokes and laugh a lot. If you need someone to talk to I am here. ____@____.com. I have been there and could not even think about therapy because I could not afford it. My world was gloom and bad luck sad stories. I am on a role now and have forgotten what it is like to worry or be negative. God bless you and I will be praying for you. If you contact me I can give you some other books that I have read also. My goal is now to help others move from that place of loneliness to one of happiness. I finally fell in love with me and realy enjoy the things I do.

Try Choose To Be Happy by Rima Rudner. You can buy it from Amazon.com. You will have a very tough time getting it from a traditional book store. Good luck!

hi,i'm B..I am 55 years old.I lost my husband three years ago to terminal illness.In dec. I lost my mom to cancer.I understand depresstion.THE best book would be Perpose driven life.You can even get it at Wall-Mart.I know it will help you or anyone who reads it.

Hi J.
I don't know if these are the types of books you are looking for, but I highly recommend all of Jenny McCarthy's books.
Belly Laughs, Baby Laughs, Life Laughs and Louder Than Words.
They are all about life and what it brings and how you sometimes just have to laugh and roll with the punches. McCarthy has a very positive way of looking at life when it handed her a bunch of lemons......she had her tough times and still was able to add the sugar of her life and make lemonade.
I loved them all and read them all in 2 weeks time......they made me laugh, cry and gave me a new & positive outlook on life. Hope they bring you the joy they brought me.

its not a book but an excellent course. check out:
www.landmarkeducation.com

its a gift you'll give to yourself!

where do you live?

I have been hooked on reading many inspiring books by Karen Kingsbury. She is a motivating and inspiring author and her books can be found usually in the inspirational/religious sections of book stores. One Tuesday Morning, followed by Beyond Tuesday Morning is a 2 book series that is very powerful, moving, and inspiring....I've been telling everyone to read her books...those are my favorites, and I just finished A Time to Dance by Karen as well...love this author's insight and inspiration in life....hope you read it and enjoy!

You need to lavish yourself. Try getting away from the kids awhile and just go to a spa, that will relax and ease the tention you are feeling. Try to spoil yourself in things at least once a month. Like buy that skit you always wanted but didn't get because the kids had more important this that needed to be done. Guess what? your life doesn't relove around your kids. Give them to a babysiter one day and think about yourself.

'The Power of Now' by Eckhart Tolle is a great book that may be able to help you, but please note it is not a book on parenting or kids. For more information do check out his website www.eckharttolle.com or www.namastepublishing.com and see if you like his style.

All the best to you in love and light.

What a great way to deal with your problem. I, too, have suffered from depression, off and on throughout my life. One book that really helped me was "The Power of your Subconscious Mind" by Joseph Murphy. He talks about how we are our thoughts, so it is important that we know our thought processes and that we learn how to manage them in a positive direction.

The other thing that really helped me was nutrition. My chiropractor put me on a nutritional cleanse and it changed my mood and energy levels so much I couldn't believe it. Good luck, and let me know if you are interested in knowing more about it.

J.-
Thank you for being brave enough to admit this and post about it - I too am struggling with depression and from past experience am very resistant to the therapy route. I hope that there are individuals out there that will pass along some sage advice to both of us...