Those who suffer from depression can come to believe that it is what they are, when it is merely something that they have - in the same way that they could have heart disease. Depression is fuelled by complex and inter-related factors; genetic, biochemical and environmental. Yet, Richard O'Connor focuses on an additional, and often overlooked, factor; our own habits. Sufferers can become good at depression, hide it and work around it. Depression has been described as a modern epidemic, 10% of the population suffer from it. Richard O'Connor's approach avoids simplistic self-help solutions by combining many of the strategies used by mental health professionals and therapists, and offers an understanding that makes each sufferer an individual. Richard O'Connor demonstrates how to replace depressive patterns of thinking and relating with new, more effective skills. Learn how to 'undo' depression.

An uncommonly thorough and useful guide. * Publishers Weekly *
Undoing Depression is distinguished by its common sense, its humanity, and its absence of dogmatism. It is a balanced and persuasive work that explores the dark predicament of depression, and the pathways toward help. I read it with great admiration. * William Styron, author of Sophie's Choice *
This is a vital and invaluable guide for people who are struggling with depression, as close as a book can come to the curative effects of psychotherapy and medication. * Andrew Soloman, author of The Noonday Demon *
Undoing Depression is a book that anyone who has ever felt depressed, to any degree, can keep nearby as a useful companion. If you are really depressed, chain it to your clothing. Beautifully written, full of dependable and inspiring information, it offers countless creative things to do in the face of depression without trying to conquer it or win battles and wars. The intelligence in this book is deeply satisfying. * Thomas Moore, author of Care of the Soul and Dark Nights of the Soul *
Essential reading for anyone who suffers from depression. The wisdom in these pages speaks directly to each individual, as if O'Connor knows exactly what we're going through. MDSG runs dozens of support groups each week and at our literature tables this is always the bestselling book. Packed with the latest research and fresh ideas, this new, updated edition hasn't lost the engaging style and compassion of the original. * Howard Smith, Director of Operations, Mood Disorders Support Group *
This up-to-date, clearly written and illuminating book about the nature and treatment of depression is just plain wonderful. I view it as a gift to us all. * Maggie Scarf, author of Unfinished Business, Intimate Partners, and Intimate Worlds *

Richard O'Connor is the author of five books, Undoing Depression, Active Treatment of Depression, Undoing Perpetual Stress, Happy At Last, and Rewire. For fourteen years he was executive director of the Northwest Center for Family Service and Mental Health, overseeing the treatment of almost a thousand patients per year. He is a practicing psychotherapist, with offices in Canaan, Connecticut, and New York City, and he lives with his family in Lakeville, Connecticut.