Happiness Is a Choice: The Symptoms, Causes, and Cures of Depression [Paperback]

Frank Minirth (Author), Paul Meier (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: December 1, 1994

Nationally known psychiatrists explore depression and offer guidance on finding relief. Includes updated information on recent findings, medications, and treatments.

Editorial Reviews

From the Back Cover

Whether depression is felt mildly or acutely, temporarily or persistently, it strikes nearly everyone.

Drs. Minirth and Meier believe, however, that the emotional pain of depression can be overcome or altogether avoided. Drawing from their professional training, counseling experience, and biblical knowledge, they provide expert answers to questions such as:

• What are the symptoms of depression?
• What are the primary sources of emotional pain?
• Which personality dynamics lead to depression?
• How should a person deal with anger and anxiety?
• What medical treatments are available for depression?

Happiness Is a Choice explores the complex relationship between spiritual life and psychological health and then spells out basic steps for recovering from depression and maintaining a happy, fulfilling life.

Frank Minirth, M.D., is president of the Minirth Clinic in Richardson, Texas, and one of only 122 doctors in America and Canada certified by the prestigious American Society of Clinical Psychopharmacology. A member of the American Mensa, he is the author of several books, including A Brilliant Mind, and can be heard weekly on both local and national radio.

Paul Meier, M.D., is founder and medical director of Meier Clinics and a guest on numerous radio and television programs. He is the author or coauthor of a number of books on family, relationships, and mental health and is a nationally and internationally sought-after speaker. --This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

About the Author

Well-known authors and psychiatrists Frank Minirth, MD, and Paul Meier, MD, have authored or coauthored numerous books on psychology, counseling, mental health, child rearing, and other family concerns. --This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

Product Details

• Paperback: 244 pages
• Publisher: Baker Books; 2 edition (December 1, 1994)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0801063140
• ISBN-13: 978-0801063145
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 6 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 3.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (33 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #931,201 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

41 of 42 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars This Book Really Works!, August 9, 2002

By A Customer

This review is from: Happiness Is a Choice: The Symptoms, Causes, and Cures of Depression (Paperback)

When I was told to purchase this book, I thought 'Happiness is a Choice' ... yeah right, like I CHOOSE to be depressed, I don't think soooo! I didn't think the book would be worth while at all. In fact, I thought it might try to brainwash or something. But that is not how it works. It gives you insight into depression. It gave me so much to think about. It gave me CONTROL over my depression for the first time. It didn't happen overnight, in fact it didn't happen until about a month after I finished reading the book. But the concepts put forth in this book were so profound, that I was able to say NO to depression for the first time, and after many many years of therapy and medication.

36 of 37 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars This book literally changed my life, July 13, 2002

By A Customer

This review is from: Happiness Is a Choice: The Symptoms, Causes, and Cures of Depression (Paperback)

I read this book about 18 years ago after my pastor recommended it to me. I was in my early 20's and had been experiencing recurring depresssions since my middle teens. I had been suicidal numerous time (e.g., sitting on edge of cliff more than once). I read this book along with my wife and for the first time in my life realized that I was making choices that brought my depression and that I could make other choices that would lead to happiness. I began making those choices and I haven't suffered from a prolonged severe depression since that time. I have now found out that my entire family for 4 generations suffers from depression. This book helped break this in me and I will share it with other members of my family. I recommend it to anyone suffering from depression and or living with anybody who is.

31 of 32 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars This book was most instramental in curing my depression, October 21, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: Happiness Is a Choice: The Symptoms, Causes, and Cures of Depression (Paperback)

This is a book every home should have. If you are not depressed you probably know someone who is. It helped me understand what I was feeling. It gave me hope and the knowledge I needed to start a recovery. I kept it with me at all times and read and reread parts. It is more of a manual than a read from front to back book. If something wasnt relelevnt to me at one point I found it was at another time. I give this book to every depressed person I can. It was a lifesavor for me. Even years later I read portions. I highly recomment this book!