What is depression? What is bipolar disorder? How are they diagnosed and
how are they treated? Can a small child be diagnosed with depression and
treated with antidepressants - and should they be?
Covering depression, manic depression, and bipolar disorder, this Very
Short Introduction gives a brief account of the history of these
concepts, before focussing on the descriptions and understanding of
these disorders today. Jan Scott and Mary Jane Tacchi look at the
introduction of modern treatments for people suffering from depression,
recounting the stories behind the development and introduction of
antidepressants and mood stabilizers. They examine the symptoms and
signs of the different disorders, as well as the association between
physical disorders and depression.
Exploring the importance of depression and bipolar disorder in society,
they also look at the link between creativity and mood disorders. Scott
and Tacchi conclude by discussing treatments and the future for those
with depression.
ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford
University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject
area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new
subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis,
perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and
challenging topics highly readable.
