Descriptions And Prescriptions: A Biblical Perspective On Psychiatric Diagnoses And Medications
If you are a Christian who has ever struggled with a mental health issue or advocated on behalf of a friend or family member, then you know that a diverse range of opinions exists within the church regarding how various psychiatric conditions should be treated.
Do certain conditions indicate spiritual conditions that can (and should be) successfully treated through pastoral counseling alone? Or, if a doctor recommends medication as the prescribed treatment in response to a diagnosis, how can you be sure that this is the right approach to take?
Michael R. Emlet – a family physician turned Christian counselor – answers these questions in Descriptions And Prescriptions: A Biblical Perspective On Psychiatric Diagnosis And Medications.
Descriptions And Prescriptions provides an insider’s view to the world of psychiatry, with information on the history of psychiatric diagnosis, how psychiatric problems are diagnosed, and the value of psychiatric diagnosis in ministry. The book also provides an overview of psychiatric medications, explaining the different classes and what they can and cannot do.
The author does not find it contradictory to be a person of faith and to use medication when needed to treat a psychiatric condition:
I believe it is right to view the development of psychoactive medications as a good gift from God, and extension of the ruling and stewarding function he gave to humanity at creation (Genesis 1:26-28). .. We should receive medications gracefully and humbly, but not forgetting the One who has given the necessary gifting and wisdom to scientists and physicians to discover such remedies. Ultimately, He alone upholds all things with His righteous hand. (Isaiah 41:10)
While Descriptions And Prescriptions is somewhat technical in presentation, thereby giving the book more appeal to professionals and those in ministry than the general public at large, this book is definitely worth exploring if you have a vested interest in this topic.
I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars.
About The Author
Michael R. Emlet, MDiv, MD, practiced as a family physician for over ten years before becoming a counselor and faculty member at the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation (CCEF). He is the author of the book CrossTalk: Where Life & Scripture Meet; the mini-books Asperger Syndrome; Chronic Pain, Angry Children: Understanding and Helping Your Child Regain Control, and Help for the Caregiver: Facing the Challenges with Understanding and Strength; and many counseling articles.
Resources
For More Information
- Visit Michael’s Website.
- Visit the Descriptions And Prescriptions Blog Tour Page.
- Descriptions And Prescriptions is available on Amazon.
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Disclosure: I received this book though Litfuse Publicity. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
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Thanks for the review! Sounds like an interesting read on a timely topic.
-Rachel (Literacy Musing monday link up) ;M
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