Down, Not Out

Gary Millar

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.

Keith Condie

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.

“Brilliant- beat biblically informed book on mental health I have ever read”

This book is not written by a theologian referencing scripture, but a pastor who has lived expert mental illness AS WELL as referencing scripture.

Well written, an easy read, re reading chapters of this book has helped me immensely by pointing me back to Jesus, my identity and hope in him. Highly recommended.

“Gentle, encouraging and easy to read”

(Disclaimer: I'm not an expert!)
I found this book easy to read. The chapters are only a few pages long, and they don't end with a massive list of questions to think about, just a short reflection.
It's gentle and encouraging - running through it is a theme of "This is me - and God is there with me."
It's positive (but realistic) about the value of medical and psychological treatments. It offers hope for relief from depression, and also hope in God in the deepest pit.

“Excellent for believers suffering depression.”

A very honest look at depression in believers and also helpful for carers, but I'd like someone to address the problem of dealing with a lapsed believer, who suffers from depression but is not ready for such a Bible-based approach. I think it's wonderful that Chris Cipollone stresses that the believer's worth is based on Christ and not on their own perceived sense of self-worth or worthlessness, but where does this leave the person who has lost their faith? I bought two copies, one for my son, but didn't give it to him as I felt it was inappropriate in his case.

“Direct and accessible”

Very good tool for those beginning to grapple with depression and anxiety. Straightforward and easy to read. Very sensitive to the potential reactions of sufferers. Very balanced on the sources of help available. Bible focussed and God honouring.

“Brilliant”

Brilliant! God honouring, reality respecting, personal and powerful. I bought two copies and gave them away before I even finished reading it. Will buy and give away more too!