C. Irwin Resources

Irwin, C. (1998). Conquering the beast within: How I fought depression and won...and how you can, too. NY Times Books, Random House.

OVERVIEW

When Cait Irwin was 13 years old, she began struggling with depression. She had reached the point of considering suicide, but fortunately, she told her mom. At this point, she was hospitalized. She wrote and illustrated her process of recovery in a journal which has now been published. This creative technique was her way to visualize the battle with depression. This book provides readers a metaphorical glimpse of what it means to struggle with depression.

Irwin identified depression as a beast which allowed her to see the depression as separate from herself. She also described it as the "broken leg" theory. These metaphors reminded her that depression was not her; instead, it was an illness separate from herself which prevented her from participating normally in her life. By using these metaphors, she was able to cope with the feelings she was experiencing.

Throughout the book, Irwin illustrates her feelings and thoughts. She illustrates the process, from initially experiencing the symptoms of depression through treatment to "leashing the beast." Her pictures describe her otherwise indescribable feelings.

At the conclusion of the book, Irwin’s family writes their own thoughts and feelings about living and coping with a family member who had depression. Their letters provide a sense of support for others who face this difficult struggle. This book also includes several pages of organizations that specialize in depression and other mental disorders. It is a very helpful resource for people who are trying to understand depression.

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION AND DISCUSSION

IMPLICATIONS

• If you have experienced depression, do you feel this book adequately describes your experience?
• If you know someone who has experienced depression, does this book help you understand his/her struggle?
• What questions about depression have been answered? What questions do you still have?
• How could you use this book with youth who are depressed?

1. For the person who is depressed: treatment is possible and effective. Do not believe that you are the depression. Enlist the help of those around you.
2. For the family, friends, and youth workers: depression is a real illness. It is not simply a state of mind. Supporting a person with depression is difficult, but they need you. Seek a support network which includes professionals.