Living in the Light: How to Fight the Darkness of Depression and Anxiety
Authors: Lacey A. West, BSN, RN; Gary L. Anderson, MS, CMHC
Publisher: Cedar Fort
Published Date: January 2013
Paperback; 144 pages
Genre: Religious Self-Help
ISBN# 978-1462111480
Reviewed by: Shanda
FTC FYI: received a free digital copy in exchange for an honest review
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Summary
Living in the Light provides readers with step-by-step methods to overcome depression and anxiety. It offers solutions through a combination of cognitive techniques and gospel-centered principles that will empower readers with the ability to regain their peace and happiness through eliminating all aspects of darkness from their life, embracing a life full of light.
Review
Living in the Light focuses on using the scriptures, prayer, service and a relationship with the Savior to help chase away darkness and encourage a life filled with the light of Christ. There are also mental and physical activities to help cope with negative thoughts, encourage positive self-talk, and promote health and balance.
Other than a small bout with post-partem depression that ended being related to a health condition, I haven’t suffered from any serious forms of depression. Because of this, I can’t personally say how effective I think this book might be in helping others with depression or anxiety. However, I still found a lot that would be useful in dealing with everyday stress and the discouragement that can affect anyone. Satan does want us to think ourselves unworthy and allow doubt to keep us from fulfilling our potential. Everyone can benefit from seeking out and maintaining the light of Christ in their lives.
The authors make some great analogies regarding certain scriptural events and how they can be applied in our lives today. These included the obvious example of Job, but also others such as the brother of Jared, the Lamanites who repented and were encircled by fire, and Joseph Smith.
The largest chapter of the book is Chapter Three: Self-Mastery. This is where the exercises in overcoming negative self-talk are located, as well as evaluating expectations of yourself and others, how lack of sleep and good nutrition affect mood and body, and the effects of hugs and music.
Every section ends with “Take Action” directives on how to adopt the previously discussed principles in to the reader’s life. The authors have included a handy Appendix that contains the title and page numbers to each of these which I was happy to find at the end of the book. There are a number of worksheets and note pages included in the back of the book as well.
If you or a loved one suffer from depression or anxiety, Living in the Light might be a good resource and provide some much needed encouragement.
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