Down, Not Out

Down, Not Out

This book unpacks many aspects of depression and anxiety, and brings our gospel identity to bear on each one Depression can lead to self-condemnation—and yet the gospel tells us there is no condemnation in Christ. Anxiety leads us to inner turmoil—but the gospel assures us of the love of God and the peace that comes with knowing him. Whether you have experienced mental illness yourself, or want to understand depression and anxiety to care for somebody you love, this book provides a personal and theologically-thoughtful reflection on the challenges facing Christians in this area. Written by a pastor from his own experience of depression and anxiety. Short accessible chapters with reflection questions for each one. Anxiety and depression are two of the most common struggles according to statistics. Some say 20% of the population for each. Given the amount of uncertainty and tragedy in our world, this is not surprising. But what are we to do with this reality? Do the Scriptures provide any hope for us? With compassion, clarity and humility, Chris walks the reader through a refreshing look at how God's grace in Christ is the most important antidote for anxiety and depression. As I read " Down, Not Out ," I was personally encouraged. I found myself growing in compassion for so many people I know who struggle in significant ways. Chris is realistic as he captures the multi-dimensional aspects of anxiety and depression and cautions us against simplistic quick-fixes. Rather, he offers a personal, gracious God who walks with us, encourages us, and provides hope and comfort along the path. Each carefully written chapter exudes comfort and hope. I can't think of anyone who doesn't need that! -- Dr. Tim S. Lane , President, Institute for Pastoral Care Mental health is an important issue that is often overlooked or misunderstood in the church. Down Not Out is a step in the right direction an encouraging book for those of us suffering from anxiety and depression, and a helpful guide for those who do not. -- Adam Ford , Founder, The Babylon Bee This book is beautifully straightforward, deeply honest and consistently profound. Chris Cipollone not only gives us a gentle yet compelling insight into the world of depression and anxiety, but consistently and winsomely points us to the Lord Jesus Christ, in whom real and ultimate answers are to be found. It may not take long to read this book, but the time invested will change the way you think about and respond to mental-health issues, whether in your own life, your family or the church. -- Gary Millar , Principal, Queensland Theological College Chris has written a book the church needs. With the authentic gentleness of his own experience, depression and anxiety are accurately described and examined in the light of Scripture, and Scripture is probed in the light of these turmoils. The result is winsome and wise Biblical counsel which honours Christ profoundly and will help sufferers and carers alike to navigate these hard paths towards him. I ve already been helped; now I ll be using this book, and commending it widely. -- Dr Andrew Nicholls , Director of Pastoral Care, Oak Hill College For followers of Christ who live with mental illness, this book acknowledges the reality and pain of that suffering, and points to the sweet solace that can be found in our gospel identity. Chris shares wisdom from the Bible, and from his own personal experience with depression and anxiety, to offer genuine comfort, compassion, and trustworthy hope for those facing similar struggles. --- Tanya Ling , Blogger at GoThereFor.com and patientreflections.wordpress.com Chris "gets" mental illness. He has been in the dark places and openly shares his personal experience. We hear of the help that can be gained from medical and psychological treatments and the difference that a supportive community can make. But with a pastor s heart, Chris main aim is to speak biblical truth into this difficult context to gently correct false patterns of thinking and feeling, and above all, to point the reader to the joy and refreshment that is found in knowing that our acceptance, security and hope depend upon God s unchanging love, not the quality of our mental health. -- Keith Condie , Co-Director, Mental Health and Pastoral Care Institute, Anglican Deaconess Ministries, Sydney, Australia Chris Cipollone combines insightful intelligence with the real grit of lived experience to bring perspective and hope to those living with mental health difficulties. -- John Burns , Clinical Psychologist Down not out " is a wonderfully helpful book for anyone struggling with mental illness or seeking to better love and understand those who face this challenge. It speaks insightfully of the realities of life with a mental illness with great theological and biblical thoughtfulness and care for those reading. God s immense kindness, faithfulness and goodness in Christ is powerfully proclaimed throughou