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

~ Frank Minirth (Author), Paul Meier (Author)
Key Phrases: verbalize our anger, reprogram our computer, seven basic guidelines, Word of God, God's Word, Nice Guys (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

Happiness Is a Choice has helped hundreds of thousands of people understand and overcome depression. Drawing from their professional training, counseling experience, and biblical knowledge, the authors provide expert answers to questions such as: What causes depression? Is there a cure for depression? Why do Christians suffer from depression? and more. Minirth and Meier explore the complex relationship between spiritual life and psychological health and then spell out basic steps for recovering from depression and maintaining a happy, fulfilling life. Families, pastors, counselors, and anyone struggling to overcome depression will benefit from this book.

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.

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Product Details

• Paperback: 240 pages
• Publisher: Baker Books; Revised edition (May 1, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0801068266
• ISBN-13: 978-0801068263
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 5.9 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (28 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #73,435 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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  #32 in	Books > Religion & Spirituality > Christianity > Christian Living > Counseling
  #59 in	Books > Religion & Spirituality > Christianity > Ministry & Church Leadership > Pastoral Counseling
  #87 in	Books > Health, Mind & Body > Aging > Depression

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

36 of 37 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.

31 of 32 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.

30 of 31 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!