Journeys with the Black Dog of Depression

I’ve recently been hearing about how “depression” is a subject that lots of people are searching the internet for. So, I thought I’d add my own observations and suggestions, for this condition, often referred to as “the Black Dog”, (a term attributed to Winston Churchil).

Over the years I’ve probably read a number of books on the subject. The first one I can remember is Malignant Sadness, by Lewis Wolpert. (Available in various library’s as well as an audio and e-book, or available via various bookshops.) It apparently later became the basis for a TV series on the BBC. (Here is a related one on Youtube.)

Over the years I’ve recommended a selection of books and TV series, apart from anything else. Some I particularly like are:
I had a Black dog: His Name was Depression – by Matthew Johnstone which has also been converted into a video or cartoon version for the World Health Organisation, in a total of 74 libraries, across Australia (including in various editions) including some in WA.

Another is Journeys with the black dog : inspirational stories of bringing depression to heel edited by Tessa Wigney, Kerrie Eyers & Gordon Parker. This is a collection of stories from many writers. In the introductory section “The landscape of depression” they refer to how “Dealing with depression raises questions, many of which remain unresolved. [they go on to say…] Why? I don’t deserve this! Why not? There’s no answer to either question. It just is It’s up to you whether you allow it to take over your life.” (p.6-7).

The same editors also prepared a guide Tackling Depression at Work: A practical guide for employees and managers. Again, available to borrow from 25 libraries across the country. (alas none from WA, but available via the publishers Allen & Unwin, apart from bookshops.)
One other related book was On Father by John Birmingham, again in lots of library’s (including the WA state Library). I recall reading a review of it somewhere, and when it arrived, I found it was a relatively short book, (apparently also available as an e-book) but it dealt with the massive impact and depression, brought on by his father’s death.

Talking Therapy

As a Psychologist and Clinical Hypnotherapist, I regularly deal with clients experiencing depression (apart from various other conditions).

Often clients refer to the idea that as someone a few steps removed from their own lives, I can help them see the proverbial “Wood for the trees” like on the photo on my office wall and used a number of times over the years in advertising.

So if you want to deal with what is troubling you with “Talking therapy” a method found to be good for dealing with depression, that could include use of Clinical hypnotherapy, or other methods, please feel free to contact my Business Support Office. The phone number is 1300506768 and are available Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm, or book 24/7 via HealthEngine. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, at Huntingdale including appointments on Tuesday and Thursday evening, as well as being at Bentley Medical Centre on the first and third Wednesday of the month. Or see my website https://hpcch.com.au for more information.