Diane E. Hough, MS, LMHC, NCCa brain spect experts opinion of Anxiety and Depression The latest release by Dr.Amen is his best synthesis of applying a brain system approach to the symptomatology manifesting as clincial anxiety and depression.
Emerging research in the cognitive neurosciences adds increasing support to his experience using SPECT. The current tools used at the university level are more sophisticated (Functional MRI, Transcranial Magnetic Imaging and PET )but are not in conflict with his findings.
The graphic and concise presentation of brain images and text allows both the novice and more familiar reader of Amen's works to understand the overlapping features of these disorders. An advantage of his style is that a reader may begin the book from any section or chapter. I found this benefit very useful for myself and amongst my patients in our search for the chapter that is most " Us ".
I highly recommend this book as an addition to the bookshelf of the American public.
www.brain-spect.com
'Healing Anxiety and Depression' is a contribution to the general public as well as the scientific world. Dr. Daniel Amen is responsible for many scientific advancements in psychiatric neuroimaging and this book continues to teach us about his innovative research. There is no reason why mental disorder should be treated any differently than other medical disorders: one must know what is going on before offering treatment. Dr. Amen and Dr. Roth allow us to 'see,' by virtue of brain SPECT imaging, what is truly going on in the brain. With the knowledge gained from this book, we as clinicians are now better equipped in treating the anxiety and depression SPECIFIC to each individual. At the same time, this book teaches the general public how to better deal with these issues that invariably face them at some point in their lives.
For those acustomed to Dr. Amen's breakthrough research, this book is a treat. For those new to the field of psychiatric neuroimaging, this is a great place to start!
This book contributes in two path-blazing ways: 1). It "de-stigmatizes" depression and anxiety-- something everyone suffers, in various degrees, at one time or another. 2). He presents natural strategies for treatment-- something most Americans want and have had difficulty finding. It is always uplifting to find a book that makes the world better and a little less dark.