I suffer from both clinical depression, and profound suicidal ideations. Contrary to the assertions of a previous reviewer, Solomon points out the difference between depression that is a chronic mental illness, as opposed to being a little weepy about "Sex & the City" ending its run. This is not a "psycho-babble" book. Solomon is critical of the ignorant view that people suffering from depression need to just "get over it" or "cheer up" or "think positive." Depression is much more than that: It is an illness. Telling someone who is clinically depressed to "cheer up" is like telling someone who is near-sighted to just concentrate harder, and you will see clearer. While both are possible, do not bet on either working.
Solomon also attacks those irresponsible authors who contend that medication to address mental illness is not necessary. While certainly there may be some mild forms of mental illness that can be treated with "potatoes, not prozac" (to coin a phrase), to say that medication is not necessary is not only wrong, but insulting.
Still, while mental illness does has its origins in biochemical reactions, the "disease" model is an imperfect fit. That is where Solomon's book really provides a service: People suffering from depression do need medication. Nevertheless, your doctor is committing malpractice if you only take medication, and do not pursue a program of talk therapy.
About two years ago, I had a significant tumble. A friend read a review for Solomon's book, and encouraged me to read it. I did. From Solomon's careful, and helpful explanation of the different medications, and their history, I was able to sum up the courage and strength to talk to my doctor about my suicidal urges. Still, I was afraid--afraid that my doctor would either scoff at me, and tell me to "grow up" and "stop being such a baby." Or the other extreme: Call the police, and have me dragged away to a padded room for the next five years. Fortunately, neither of those things happened. Instead, I got a perscription, and sought out a counselor on a friend's recommendation. Today, I still struggle with my depression, and have to be careful--but it is not as consuming as it was before.
Suicidal ideations and depression are not exactly the same, but connected, like the rails of a railroad track. If you are suicidal, I urge you to find something--anything--you would miss if you were no longer here: blue sky, good food, your favorite song, a relative who loves you. Hang on that. Then remember that you are not alone: Many other people feel the same way. You are not weak, or strange. But you do need (and deserve) help. If you don't trust or feel comfortable with your doctor, then find another doctor you do trust. But do something--You don't need to suffer alone.
This book is a good place to start. Begin with the introduction, and skip to the chapter on suicide.
Another book that helped me (in addition to the above mentioned book by Jamison) is "The Savage God: A Study of Suicide" by A. Alvarez. Both are available through Amazon.com, but should also be available at your local bookstores--if you need help right away.
Solomon has battled depression for much of his life. Through his research and studies, he has gained valuable knowledge on the subject which he openly shares with his readers. Of the vast number of books written on depression, "Noonday Demon" is definitely one of the most complete, accurate and informative ones to be found. I also enjoyed his easy manner, occasional wit and positive approach to an affliction that for a multitude of individuals can be a disabling, life-long illness.
I think sometimes the author's reach exceeded his grasp, and the book could have been trimmed without losing its impact. It's a good book to dip into rather than plow straight through, if you're depressed that is.