Dysfunction Interrupted: How to Quickly Overcome Depression, Anxiety and Anger Starting Now

Those tired of suffering the negative consequences of a dysfunctional family upbringing will find this handbook by Sherman, a psychologist, to be full of useful ideas. Sherman’s primary message is simple: “Once you have identified a problem, it is much easier to fix.” Treating clients who were dealing with troubled pasts and who felt stuck in destructive patterns, Sherman developed a strategy: challenge them to examine their underlying beliefs and investigate the beliefs’ origins in order to address those issues and move past them. The first part of the book provides intimate case studies of individuals plagued by the impacts of negative parenting styles. The second part identifies the many mental-health symptoms that can result from an unhealthy childhood. The third part delivers Sherman’s recommended tools for change, such as distracting oneself, engaging in a hobby, and meditation—just to name a few. Toward the end, unfortunately, the book loses focus and presents suggestions regarding time management and vehicular decluttering that have seemingly little or nothing to do with the overall premise. Nonetheless, this user-friendly guide should be welcomed by its target audience; an extensive and informative section on different parenting styles should prove particularly invaluable to readers. (BookLife)