1 SENTENCE SUMMARY: This inspiring memoir of resilience and recovery illuminates the struggles faced by those living with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and provides an intimate look into the healing journey of one woman’s battle with depression.
“No matter what life throws at you, never give up.”
Quick Info

Category: Depression
Publish Date: 2007-09-06
# Pages: 304
ISBN: 1583332839
Where to Get It:
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Table of Contents
Overview
Kitty Dukakis and Larry Tye’s book Shock: The Healing Power of Electroconvulsive Therapy is a comprehensive and intimate look at the science and practice of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).
The authors provide firsthand accounts of patients who have found success with the therapy, as well as candid conversations with leading psychiatrists and researchers regarding the history, efficacy, and ethical considerations of ECT.
The book is a must-read for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of this controversial but potentially life-saving treatment.
4 Key Lessons from Shock by Kitty Dukakis and Larry Tye
1. Take Action
One of the most important lessons from the book Shock is to take action when it comes to managing mental health challenges.
This can include seeking professional help and taking medication if needed.
It also involves learning to recognize and address the signs and symptoms of mental illness, such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
Taking action can help to reduce the severity of symptoms and increase the chances of successful treatment.
2. Build Healthy Support Systems
Another important lesson from the book Shock is to develop and maintain a strong support system.
This can include family members, friends, and even online support groups.
Having a strong support system can help to reduce the effects of mental health challenges, as well as provide much-needed emotional support.
3. Strive for Balance
Shock also emphasizes the importance of striving for balance in life.
This includes finding ways to make time for self-care, relaxation, and leisure activities.
It also involves setting realistic expectations, managing stress, and finding healthy outlets such as exercise and hobbies.
Striving for balance can help to improve overall mental health and wellbeing.
4. Seek Professional Help
Finally, Shock encourages readers to seek professional help if needed.
This can include seeing a mental health specialist, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, and taking medication if prescribed.
Professional help can provide an individual with the necessary skills and resources to better manage mental health challenges.
Who Should Read It
This book would be of particular interest to individuals who are interested in mental health and how it affects the lives of those who suffer from it, as well as their families.
It is also a great resource for mental health professionals who want to learn more about the condition and how to best help their patients.
Additionally, those who are interested in the personal stories of resilience and recovery will find inspiration in Kitty Dukakis’ story.
Where to Get It
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About Kitty Dukakis and Larry Tye
Kitty Dukakis is an author and public speaker who advocates for the rights of the mentally ill and for mental health awareness.
She is the wife of former Massachusetts Governor and US Presidential candidate Michael Dukakis.
Larry Tye is an author and journalist who has written for The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Boston Globe, and other publications.
He has written several books, including Home Lands: Portraits of the New Jewish Diaspora and Bobby Kennedy: The Making of a Liberal Icon.
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Other Depression Books you may Like:
- Best Books on Depression
- Shoot the Damn Dog by Sally Brampton
- Spark by John Ratey
- The Anatomy of Melancholy by Robert Burton
- The Antidote by Oliver Burkeman
Over to You
If you already read Shock by Kitty Dukakis and Larry Tye, please take a moment to rate it and maybe write your feedback in the comments. You’ll help other readers make the best choice.
Thanks a lot,
Simon

Welcome to DailyBitsOfWisdom.com, my passion project inspired by my own battle with depression. Here, I share resources on journaling, positive affirmations, self-help insights, and book summaries, creating a nurturing space where we can connect, learn, and grow together on our journey to self-discovery and personal growth.