The Mental Abyss is written by James Sandefer, who personally endured and eventually emerged from a gruelling and nearly tragic personal depression. His account is offered from personal experience rather than as a generic reproduction taken from a variety of psychology textbooks. He knows firsthand the feelings of hopelessness and desperation that accompanies depression. James is bipolar, which complicated his treatment and recovery. Nonetheless, he learned how to survive and is courageously offering his invaluable insights to those searching for hope of recovery. His candid experiences resonate true with anyone wrestling with the demon illness called depression. James says, "Depression does not have to be a terminal illness." Reading, understanding and employing his discoveries presented in the Mental Abyss may prove to be among the most important actions a person ever initiates for regaining their self-respect, confidence and a comfortable quality of life.