About the Authors

Publisher's Description

A woman's guide to emotional wholeness Twice as many women as men will experience depression sometime in their lifetime, and episodes for women are likely to start at earlier ages, last longer, and recur more frequently, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians (www.aafp.org). Many women are given medication to treat their troubling emotions, but medication alone does not treat the underlying problems that trouble the mind and spirit. Counselors Elyse Fitzpatrick and Dr. Laura Hendrickson provide biblical guidance on how to solve emotional problems biblically.

Endorsement

The authors address issues which concern many Christians: Are my emotional problems (depression, anxiety, or moodiness) a disease of the body or a problem of the soul? What can I do to feel better?

They begin by addressing the mind-body question, explaining that we are not merely physical creatures, but that we also are spiritual beings. The authors gently challenge their readers to consider the spiritual causes of their emotional problems. Spiritual issues cannot be addressed merely by material means (such as medications).

They then deal with the problem of pain, providing compassionate biblical answers. The heart of the book is devoted to practically addressing the specific issues of depression, anxiety, and moodiness. Finally, they address cognitive and perceptual problems which have physical causes, such as brain injuries and dementia. In every situation there is hope in Christ!

Testimonies of those who have found biblical help for their emotional pain are intersperced throughout the book and further enhance the authors' message.

The authors very carefully address the use of psychotropic drugs. Dr. Hendrickson speaks from the perspective of a physician as she explains how commonly prescribed medications work, and what their side effects may be. Her viewpoint is enhanced by her personal experiences about which she is refreshingly transparent. While the authors focus on addressing emotional problems through biblical/spiritual means, they do not condemn those who have used psychotropic drugs. They also repeatedly warn readers not to go off of medication without a doctor's supervision.

As a biblical counselor, I have never read a more practical and useable book. I anticipate giving this book to many of my counselees. While it is addressed primarily to women, many men will find great benefit in reading it