Frequently asked questions answered for Christians

Andrew and Elizabeth Procter
SPCK 2012
£8.99 Pb 110pp
ISBN 978 0 281106 472 4

Included among the 20 questions covered by the authors are: Does my depression stem from my lack of faith? I must have done something wrong? Am I being judged? Why doesn't God heal me? and Why do I find worship/fellowship difficult and struggle to go to church? A chapter for carers is entitled: What can I do to help? And one for church leaders: How can my church help?

It is written by a husband (a pastor) and wife (psychiatrist). Each question is answered using the same format. The chapter starts with 'Information' about the question being addressed. Then the 'Inspiration' section gives a testimony or quotation for encouragement. The 'Meditation' section gives helpful Bible passages. The 'Perspiration' provides useful, simple exercises.

Occasionally the authors made statements which do not have scientific validity such as 'Depression particularly strikes those who have high expectations of themselves and depression is the 'curse of the strong'. It hits generous, good hearted people who care about others.' Overall it gives valuable insights for those suffering with depression.

Dominic Beer is a retired psychiatrist in London.