Depression is more common than we want to believe. Bates ‘s heartwarming message is that clear and compassionate thinking helps build self-esteem and gives us back a trust in ourselves that gets lost when we become depressed. UNDERSTANDING AND OVERCOMING DEPRESSION is a useful tool that helps sufferers and their families understand and cope with depression. Included are strategies for:Removing obstacles to recovery.Doing one thing at a time.Changing your self-image.Living with a depressed person.