The Stress Answer: Train Your Brain to Conquer Depression and Anxiety in 45 Days

In a deceptively simple style, author and psychologist Lawlis (Mending the Broken Bond, The ADD Answer, etc.), best known as a consultant on TV's Dr. Phil, offers a sophisticated overview of the latest neurological research, and how it can be integrated with cognitive therapy to treat mental and emotional disorders in ways ""light-years ahead of current methods."" Key is the discovery of ""brain plasticity,"" the organ's ""amazing capacity for creating backup systems that can renew lost functions""; as such, the brain can be re-wired for better functioning through exercises (imaging, breathing, ""thought-stopping techniques"") and lifestyle changes (setting aside 30 minutes a day to relax). Lawlis maintains a useful focus on reigning in what he calls ""stress storms,"" when overloaded brain circuits lose their capacity for ""logic and rational thinking,"" leaving one ""stuck in a mental ditch, with the engine revving and wheels spinning, but no forward movement."" Including several useful tools for self-diagnosis, in-depth looks at various kinds of ""storms,"" and a 45-day program to apply his method, this guide to de-stressing will help those willing to put some effort into mental healing.