Alex Riley's book A Cure for Darkness explores the history of depression treatment. The book traces the evolution of understanding and treating depression, from ancient humoral theories to modern biological and psychological approaches. It examines key figures like Freud, Kraepelin, and Beck, highlighting pivotal discoveries such as antidepressants and cognitive behavioral therapy. Riley also addresses the social and cultural contexts shaping depression's perception and treatment, including global disparities in access to care. Finally, the book concludes by exploring promising new avenues of research into the treatment of depression, including the use of psychedelics and the role of the microbiome.
