SHEDDING LIGHT ON THE DARKNESS OF DEPRESSION

October is National Depression Education and Awareness Month. A fascinating new book offers hope and healing.

(Long Island, N.Y.) For the past six years, I have turned to Long Island native Deborah Serani, a licensed psychologist and certified psychoanalyst in practice twenty five years to shed some light on the darkness of depression. She is an adjunct professor at Adelphi University and the author of the award-winning, syndicated blog Dr. Deb: Psychological Perspectives. Dr. Serani is a frequent go-to expert, providing insight on a variety of psychological subjects for numerous media outlets. Her interviews can be found in Psychology Today, Newsday, The Chicago Sun Times, Glamour Magazine, The Associated Press and on affiliate radio programs at CBS and NPR, just to name a few. Dr. Serani has also worked as a technical advisor for the NBC television show Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.

Her enlightening new book, "Living with Depression" is a part memoir, part self-help book that details Serani's personal and professional experiences with depression - and the wisdom gained from this unique perspective. She tackles the disorder with a deep sensitivity - turning the pages, you feel she has poured her heart and soul into the book--and her professional expertise and training.

Diagnosed at age 19, Serani talks about her lifetime struggles with depression and how finding the right combination of treatments can lead to health and healing. Serani comments on the roadblocks of stigma and reminds us that the pain of depression and most mental illness arise not solely from the illness, but from the harsh response society has to people with these disorders. Clinical definitions, updated research, and the promise of science serve not only as a resource guide for anyone who has depression or loves someone with this disorder, but also as a testament to those who live productively with mental illness.

If you or a loved one is dealing with depression, Dr. Serani's book is simply a must read. She offers her unique perspective of depression from a personal and a professional experience. Her book is packed with information and it can truly serve as a light at the end of the tunnel. You'll find everything from tips on how to find a good therapist to dealing with health insurance, how to fight the stigma, prevent relapse - and so much more. The holidays can hit hard for those who battle depression, so now's the time to start building a path towards hope and healing.

Janene Mascarella

September 28, 2011 2:23 PM Eastern

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