In this powerful new self-help program, Wright and Basco show you how to blend the best methods of scientifically tested treatments to win the battle against depression. By following their step-by-step instructions, you will be able to develop a Personal Plan for Recovery that you can use to get well and stay well.

The flexible plan lets you learn about and master the Five Keys to Recovery in the sequence that's best for you. Some people may want to work through all five keys; others may find they are able to achieve the level of health they want with just a few. Whether you learn the self-help strategies of cognitive-behavior therapy, rely on prescription antidepressants, try herbal remedies, work on mending relationships, focus on spiritual growth, or use a combination of methods, the Personal Plan for Recovery is a breakthrough tool that allows you to take control of your own treatment.

Conversational and filled with guided exercises and strategies that work, Getting Your Life Back is an empowering book that maximizes each person's strengths and potential.

Like another reviewer, I was also surprised by the Publisher's Weekly review posted above and disagree with much of the author's assessment of the book. If you are depressed and feel like you've been going around in circles about daily issues like paying the bills or larger issues about finding meaning in the life you lead, this book might also help you find a way to assess your situation and begin to relieve symptoms of depression. While no book is a cure and any approach to addressing depression requires a strong personal commitment, the authors of this book have really helped me, someone who has suffered from depression for more than 10 years. I thank them very much.


The most helpful book on depression I have ever read   December 26, 2004
 32 out of 34 found this review helpful

This is an excellent book, honoring the WHOLE person (body, mind and spirit), down-to-earth and very respectful of the different ways people deal with their personal distress. I am very surprised at the Publisher's Weekly review, as I found the book to be just the opposite of that assessment. In fact, this is the only book I've read whose authors, in fact, DID seem like they knew from experience the dark maze of depression. I have shared the book with others and will continue to recommend it. I discovered the book by accident at a bookstore one lonely gray day and read it three times. It truly is a life-changer.


Most Informative Ever!   May 13, 2001
 26 out of 26 found this review helpful

As a person with long-standing problems and treatment of depression, I found this by far the most thorough and useful discussion of depression ever. It is excellent writing from warm, caring, down-to-earth-sounding professionals who do not seem to feel that they are All-Powerful. The authors certainly give the readers all the tools needed to help themselves and to seek and follow professional help when needed. In my opinion, this book should be a textbook for all medical students, whatever their specialty, as well as psychology students, seminary students, and anyone in the "helping" professions.


Very helpful & inspirational book   April 9, 2001
 25 out of 25 found this review helpful

After reading your Publisher Weekly's Editotrial review, I felt compelled to write my exprerience with this book which was totally different than what your reviewer suggested. I found that "Getting Your Life Back" provided me with a number of personal insights, and a better understanding of the many paths and simple tools that can be used to fight depression. It is any easy read and is also particulary helpful for someone who must deal with a family member or loved one who suffers from this terrible condition. Mike Wallace's endorsement and past history with depression led me to purchase this book.


The key to unlocking depression is in this book!   September 30, 2002
 23 out of 24 found this review helpful

This was a very informative book, written in plain English for those who are depressed and their families. There are many good exercises besides the profound text it provides. It covers the many forms and facets of depression in a very user-friendly way and I will not hesitate to use it and pass it one to others who may need it. It contains all the keys plus suggestions on how to put them into action and if that alone is not enough, how to talk to your doctor about medications. It gives life coping strategies that anyone can use. I couldn't put this book down.