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Breaking Down the Barriers
Perceiving Depression is an intellectual journey that prompts readers to consider new perspectives on mental illness and look at a mix of historical, religious, and scientific approaches to understanding human experiences. Why was this an important book for you to write?
To try to know myself, in moments of deep emotional crisis, or in short, to know in depth what is happening to me and the possibility of controlling myself, with the help of people who in my opinion represent the greatest moral authority or the truth of the things that can be applied in my life.
What were some of the goals you set for yourself as a writer in this book?
The exploration of the things that so intensely affect me, but in the realm of self-knowledge, even though such inquiry terrified me, nevertheless at the same time I felt protected by the promise of the truth in which I always believed if I stuck to Socratic philosophy through reading the classical Greek Plato. In order to regain the security of which I felt I had lost in a resounding way; due to the intense and morbid fears to which he suffered daily.
Did you find anything in your research of this story that surprised you?
Yes, because unexpectedly, without really intending to, I discovered the thoughts that violently subjugate me and arouse intense fear, and above all, to be able to see them in their essence or reality, that is, as senseless or merely absurd thoughts.
What do you hope readers take away from Perceiving Depression?
May they allow themselves to know themselves by breaking down the barriers or fears that often prevent us from seeking the truth, that is, that under solid guidance it is possible not to fall into deviations or misdirection for all those who, out of necessity or interest, wish to cross the oceans of thought; which, like a sailboat, is carried by the prevailing winds where we do not want to go. However, this knowledge, of diseases due to psychiatric imbalance, does not promise a cure without specialized medication, but it can contribute powerfully to helping us not to fall into the downward spiral of uncontrollable fears. And I want to add that, for me, it allowed me to conclude my working life, after 32 years of work, of which almost 27 were developed in harsh work environments (as an operations engineer on offshore oil platforms), a period in which, for various reasons, I experienced strong relapses, which I, not without little difficulty, overcame and even more, allowed me to conclude in a normal way with the end of my working life.
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It is not the product of an inspiration or state of mind, nor is it the product of a set of observations only, nor is it yet the product of arriving at reason, nor is it reason itself. It is the product of a method attached to the desire for the search for truth, which makes it a scientific method with unexpected and impersonal conclusions that end with the reality of the path to the stillness of thought.
PERCEIVING DEPRESSION
Domingo David Franco Assad’s Perceiving Depression presents a multifaceted exploration of depression. Assad skillfully intertwines Greek mythology elements, Plato’s philosophical musings, and historical figures such as Dante, offering a distinctive reading experience. The book delves into the complex interplay between depression, neuroscience, and various stimuli that influence our thoughts and feelings. Notably, it also examines the role of religion in understanding and coping with mental health challenges.
Assad’s narrative navigates the terrain of mental struggles and religious beliefs, examining how these aspects intersect in the context of depression. A particularly striking element in the narrative is the protagonist’s confrontation with suicidal thoughts, set against the backdrop of his religious beliefs that view suicide as a sin. This conflict leads to a journey of self-reflection and self-awareness, demonstrating the profound impact of personal faith in mental health—a connection often overlooked in traditional discussions.
The book’s style is dynamic, predominantly adopting a dialogical form reminiscent of Plato’s works. This stylistic choice enriches the narrative, introducing a diverse range of references, from ancient civilizations like the Persians and Macedonians to contemporary Nobel laureates in neuroscience. Such a wide array of references adds depth and historical context to the exploration of depression. Assad skillfully navigates the book’s rich tapestry of ancient, mythological, and religious references, making them more accessible and engaging, especially for non-native English speakers. His simplification of these complex concepts ensures that readers from diverse backgrounds can appreciate and connect with the book’s themes, enhancing the reading experience for a broad audience.
Perceiving Depression is an intellectual journey that prompts readers to consider new perspectives on mental illness. It may particularly resonate with those who appreciate a blend of historical, religious, and scientific approaches to understanding human experiences. The book invites diverse interpretations, likely to vary based on individual life experiences. It’s an intriguing read that offers insights likely to linger with readers long after the last page is turned, recommended for anyone seeking a fresh lens through which to view mental health.
Pages: 158 | ASIN : B0CQQCMPDR
LITERARY TITAN 