Down, Not Out

Andrew Nicholls

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.

Timothy Lane

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!

“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!