Alex Riley Livres

'Boldly ambitious, deeply affecting, and magisterial in scope' Steve Silberman, author of Neurotribes 'Expansive and thoughtful, it illuminates the complexity and elusiveness of his subject' New Statesman Depression is a leading cause of disability around the world today, a growing health crisis that affects us all. It is a complex and diverse condition. But it is also highly treatable. In this profound and sweeping history, Alex Riley charts the macabre, ingenious, and often surprising developments in the science of mental healthcare over the last 2000 years. In the pursuit to understand his own experiences with mental illness, Riley interweaves his own family history with fascinating stories of biological and psychological treatments which illuminate the past, question the current state of diagnosis, and investigate the hype and hopes for future treatments. From the re-emergence of long- forgotten therapies to a group of grandmothers who stand at the forefront of a revolution in mental healthcare, A Cure for Darkness is an essential exploration of one of the most pressing problems of our time.

This book offers a comprehensive exploration of depression, blending personal experience with scientific inquiry. It raises critical questions about the nature of depression: Is it a persistent low mood or a complex array of symptoms? Is it a singular diagnosis or a spectrum of mental disorders that require varied treatments? As a depression sufferer himself, science writer Alex Riley reflects on his own journey through antidepressants and cognitive behavioral therapy, questioning their effectiveness and the future of treatment options for those who do not respond to standard therapies. The narrative traces the evolution of treatments over centuries, from the 'talking cure' to electroconvulsive therapy and even the use of psychedelics. Riley's investigation into global mental health encompasses its colonial history and current innovations, highlighting unique approaches, such as the role of grandmothers in leading a mental health revolution. This gripping account not only delves into the science behind mental health but also uncovers new hope at the forefront of treatment, making it a vital resource for understanding one of the world's most widespread disorders.