Positive Psychology Courses, Coaching, Consultancy, Communication

It’s happened! Two years after starting work on the first book worldwide to show you how to beat the blues using evidence-based tools from the science of happiness, ‘Positive Psychology for Overcoming Depression; Self-help Strategies for Happiness, Inner Strength & Well-being’ has been published. Twelve strategies to lift your mood naturally, support you on your journey out of depression, boost your positivity and protect you from further episodes of the blues. It may be a long title but this is intentional as the book is not only for people dealing with chronic low moods but also for those of you who want to master the scientifically-proven techniques that build happiness, resilience and well-being. 1 in 2 people in the developed world will experience an episode of depression in their lifetime, others find that the black dog casts a shadow over them from time to time, some would simply like to experience more frequent positivity and others are actively engaged in developing their capacity for happiness (40% of which is under your voluntary control). The 12 strategies work across all these situations.

Praise for the book: “Miriam Akhtar introduces a major breakthrough in the treatment of depression.” Dr Chris Johnstone, GP & Psychologist

“My advice is to give this book a go. If I was going to buy one book on positive psychology to treat depression, I’d choose an author who’d been properly trained as a positive psychologist, who knows how to write in an engaging and accessible way, and who understands, first-hand, the challenges of depression. In short, I’d choose Miriam.” Dr Phil Hammond, GP & Comedian

“A wonderful set of ideas and techniques that can help reduce depression and build happiness. They’re simple, engaging, practical and – most importantly – they’re all based on evidence from the latest positive psychology research, so we know they really work.”  Mark Williamson, Director, Action for Happiness

“For many years I have recommended “Mind Over Mood,” to my clinical psychology trainees as the psychological treatment manual of choice. Miriam Akhtar has now written a very credible depression treatment manual, based on the principles of positive psychology. I am sure that this book will go on to become one of the few other classics in this field, along with Beck and Wolpert. Highly recommended!” Dr Jerome Carson, Clinical Psychologist in Independent Practice, London

“The first to apply positive psychology solutions to depression, Miriam’s book is clear, engaging and enlightening. In fact it is so good that despite all my existing knowledge, I borrowed a few tips for myself! I love the summary tables and the first-aid kits – they really bring positive psychology to life.”  Dr Ilona Boniwell, Principal Lecturer and Programme Leader for the first MSc in Applied Positive Psychology in Europe, UEL

“This book is a joy. Miriam Akhtar clearly demonstrates that positive psychology is both practical and effective. The book will be a vital tool in our work supporting people in recovering their wellbeing.” Amanda Williamson. Director of PHEW (Devon) – Promoting Health and Emotional Wellbeing

Please support your local bookshop where you can. You can also access the book through Amazon, Waterstones, Barnes & Noble and Borders.  I’d love to hear about your experiences of using the techniques – please get in touch. There are other ways to master the tools  – a block of one-to-one coaching, the Happiness Training Plan CD/download or come to one of our Positive Psychology Masterclasses. I’m also planning a one-day workshop – the 7 highly effective habits of happy people which is also a coaching programme. Watch this space! In the meantime please like the Facebook page for the book where you can access the latest information.