Book Review—Ready to Win Over Depression

Ready to Win Over Depression
by Thelma Wells
ISBN: 978-0736928243
153 pages

From the Book Cover:

Has sadness taken over? Have you talked, prayed, and even focused on “happy thoughts” but continue to slog through every day? Popular author Thelma Wells has been there. She knows it’s hard to start down the recovery road, but she did … and reached the promised land of hope and joy. And she wants to help you do the same.

Ready to Win Over Depression is at once powerful and refreshing. Ms. Wells starts by sharing her own experience with depression, insisting that if you struggle with it too, you are not crazy.

She believes depression can be caused by biological or other physical conditions, but “the typical depression is situational. This doesn’t mean [it's] painless or less important or harmless.” Most of the book is directed toward women with situational depression. Readers struggling with more severe forms are urged to see a counselor or physician.

After examining some of the symptoms and dynamics of depression, she devotes the rest of the book to four ways of addressing depression. On the surface, the advice may seem fairly common, but Ms. Wells presents a viewpoint that goes much deeper than a “buck up and take it” or “just think positive” approach.

Each major point is supported by numerous scripture quotations, followed by thought provoking questions to ponder. (There is space provided after each question to write an answer, so it is actually part traditional book and part workbook.) This approach is ingenious because it puts the focus on God and His Word, and forces the reader to think for herself instead of simply being spoon-fed formulas to try.

I do wish the book had been organized more efficiently, especially with regard to the four ways of addressing depression. As it is, they are somewhat scattered throughout the book. Overall though, I feel this is a valuable and encouraging work. Ms. Wells addresses a difficult subject realistically but with empathy and hope. Most important is her solid Bible-based encouragement. There is a strong emphasis on understanding the hope we have in Christ and who we are in Him.

Disclosure of Material Connection: The author received a complimentary review copy of this book from the publisher, and was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are her own. This is being disclosed in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”