Living with a Black Dog: His Name Is Depression

The dog days of depression... LIVING WITH A BLACK DOG poignantly illustrates a debilitating condition and offers hope and strength for better days ahead.

One in four women and one in six men suffer from depression at least once in their lifetime. Ever since Winston Churchill coined the term "Black Dog" to describe the bouts of depression he experienced much of his life, it has become the nickname for the condition that affects millions. Matthew Johnstone’s thoughtful Living with a Black Dog: His Name is Depression (Andrews McMeel Publishing, LLC, $9.95) provides moving and uplifting insight into what it is like to suffer from depression.

Unlike many books on the market, Living with a Black Dog gets to the heart of depression through illustration and simple text. Its message is undeniable: Depression is a debilitating condition but there is hope:

Through his artwork and words, Johnstone discreetly offers advice on coping, including yoga, meditation, professional help, and journaling. Living with a Black Dog ends with the words "The Beginning," delivering understanding, hope, and the assurance that Black Dog days are not forever. Whether you’re a sufferer yourself or know someone shadowed by a Black Dog, this title is easy to relate to and reassures the reader that he is not alone.

About Matthew Johnstone

Matthew Johnstone is a highly regarded artist, writer, and exhibited photographer who has worked to train his own "Black Dog" for more than 20 years. New Zealand born, Matthew worked in advertising in San Francisco and New York before moving to Sydney, Australia, where he now lives with his wife and two daughters.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — Contact: Shelly Barkes, (800) 851-8923, sbarkes@amuniversal.com