Editorial Review:

Vagus nerve stimulation is the only FDA approved long term treatment option for chronic or recurrent depression. After twenty years of chronic depression, countless antidepressants, electroconvulsive therapy, the author was included as a study subject in the investigational trial of vagus nerve stimulation as a treatment for chronic depression. The treatment completely changed his life and inspired him to write Out of the Black Hole to help other patients who suffer from the grips of this agonizing disease. This all inclusive book prepares you to make an informed decision about the procedure by providing an easy-to-understand explanation about the ninety-minute out patient procedure, the side effects and benefits, insurance codes and the reimbursement process. Vagus nerve stimulation is not related to ECT or brain surgery and is more effective than traditional antidepressants drugs. Neurostimulation is the next frontier in the treatment of depression. If you or a loved one suffer from chronic or recurrent depression, this book will guide you through this remarkable, life-saving, life-altering procedure.

Customer Reviews:

Avg. Customer Rating: 4.5 / 5.0

I WONDER IF CHARLES DONOVAN GETS A KICK BACK FROM CYBERONICS...:

I bought this book when my psychiatrist suggested this implant 2.5 years ago. I was reluctant, as usual because nothing up to that point had worked. I was diagnosed with Major Depression when I was 17. I am now 38. My depression is now classified as refractive or treatment resistant. So, after reading this bright shiny missive, I HAD SO MUCH HOPE. I agreed to the procedure, the insurance agreed, etc. 2 years post op, with the stimulator on full blast, I have been suicidal for the past six months, and am... more info

Excellent information ... hope:

People with treatment-resistant depression need to explore all their options. _Out of the Black Hole_ presents one of those options in a way laypeople can understand. Charles E. Donovan's story will be familiar to many people who have suffered from chronic depression. It can also help the friends and families of people with depression to better understand the illness. No one should have to struggle with an illness that can be treated, even if the treatment might seem extreme. There is nothing in this world... more info

Great Resource for Anyone Considering VNS:

I am a candidate for VNS and am pursuing the surgery avidly.
The good thing about the book is it collects a lot of information that a person could find on his/her own and puts into a "handbook" format.
For example, I did a lot of research on VNS prior to reading this book and only in Mr. Donovan's book did I learn that the battery needs surgical replacement after a period of time.
I think it is an excellent resource for amyone who has drug resistant depression.
As more information about... more info

Donovan understands depression. He gets it. Very few do.:

Mr. Donovan articulated wonderfully and insightfully what all depression sufferers are only able to barely explain or even share. This is a story that marries a very personal subject, with this new FDA approved treatment. Buy his book and don't leave home with out it.

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