Reviews

“An inherently fascinating and impressively informative medical history of treating chronic depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and related psychological ailments, Fighting Chance: How Unexpected Observations and Unintended Outcomes Shape the Science and Treatment of Depression is a truly seminal study that is exceptionally well written, organized and presented.” — MIDWEST BOOK REVIEW (Read the full review here.)

“‘People have to know this!’ Fighting Chance: How Unexpected Observations and Unintended Outcomes Shape Science and the Treatment of Depression is a unique resource for professionals and non-professionals interested in depression research. Zabel has interviewed many outstanding internationally renowned leaders in the field of research on depression and integrates complex information ranging from basic molecular findings to the most recent clinical treatments including rapid-acting antidepressants that show efficacy within days contrasted to the 2-8 week delay in clinical response time typically associated with conventional antidepressants. Zabel’s book is a product of three years of research and provides a comprehensive yet simplified perspective into the potential underlying causes of this prevalent disease. Globally, suicide accounts for about 800,000 deaths per year, many of which are associated with depression. Depressive illness is listed by the World Health Organization (WHO) as the leading cause of lifetime disability worldwide of all medical diseases. Fighting Chance is an essential resource, particularly for those including law enforcement, physicians, social workers, educators and others who encounter depressed individuals who may be at high risk for suicide.  In my view, Sarah Zabel’s selection of the top researchers in the field and their willingness to provide direct quotes about the current and future directions of research, makes this book an excellent resource.  It is unusual to find a book on depression that is so well written, with clear takeaways of where the field is today and future directions.”
— Blynn Garland Bunney, Ph.D.
Executive Director, UC Irvine/Pritzker Tissue Bank
Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior
School of Medicine
University of California, Irvine

“In this encyclopedic examination of the studies and research into this problem, science writer Sarah Zabel recaps the investigations, therapies, theories, and some brief case histories of this distressing disorder… This scholarly probe into the current status of this depressive condition and the numerous studies provides the general reader with insight into its complexity.” (4.5 of 5 stars)
— SAN FRANCISCO BOOK Review (Read the full review here.)

“A comprehensive study of the history and science of depression, FIGHTING CHANCE examines the causes, symptoms, and treatments of this disease as research and understanding have evolved over time. Providing the perspectives of clinicians, researchers, and patients, Sarah Zabel deftly illustrates the physical and emotional toll of depression on those who suffer from it. An essential addition to the library of anyone impacted by this disease.” — INDIE READER (Read the full review here.)

“FIGHTING CHANCE approaches its subject with hope, taking an expansive look at the underlying science to suggest the possibility of a less troubled future.”
— Foreword Clarion Reviews (Read the full review here.)

“Well-researched, engagingly written and informative… will interest anyone seeking a better understanding of depression.”
— BlueInk Reviews (Read the full review here.)

“A meticulous and thoughtful scientific exploration.”
— KIRKUS Reviews (Read the full review here.)