Friday, October 5, 2007

Archimandrite Spyridon Logothetis' "Depression: A Spiritual Guide"

"Depression: A Spiritual Guide", by Archimandrite Spyridon Logothetis (Abbot of Holy Transfiguration of our Savior Jesus Christ Monastery in Nafpaktos, Greece), ISBN 960-86639-1-1.

This book is a valuable resource for those suffering from depression. We are redirected to the Great Physician for healing, rather than the typical medication route, and the book offers "spiritual therapy and medicines for depression", as well as "preventative medicines" for depression, and lists the main causes of depression. Depression isn't anything new; the Holy Desert Fathers themselves (who lived in the 300's) spoke about a kind of depression which is called "accedia" ("spiritual weariness or distress of heart"), and for sure, depression even preceded them. As it is often true, ancient remedies are often superior to the modern day "new and improved" ones.

A great accompaniment to this book is "Conquering Depression", published by the St. Herman of Alaska Brotherhood (ISBN 0-938-635-6). It is quotations from Holy Fathers and Mothers from the Church as well as the story of a saint who is termed "Healer of Depression", New Martyr St. Maria of Gatchina (+1930, commemorated January 26/February 8).

There is also a brief but very helpful article here on depression.