In contrast many books on depression, this text takes the view that those most susceptible to depression are people with strong personalities. Being naturally conscientious and reliable, they tend to carry on under great stress, where weaker people would simply give up. In the end the burden becomes too much and they succumb to depression rather like a rubber band which will snap if stretched too far. The work attempts to explain the cause of depression and how it can be treated - by looking after yourself, antidepressant treatments and talking therapies.