The Story behind the "Anonymous" Books (Dr. Dennis Ortman) - Depression Anonymous, Anger Anonymous, Anxiety Anonymous,
Dr. Ortman writes -
I wrote three “Anonymous” books for recovery from anxiety,
depression, and anger. I view these mood states as similar to drug addictions
that can be relieved by working the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous.
The seeds for these books were planted in my childhood. I
was raised in an alcoholic family where I learned about the tragedy and power
of addiction. As an adult, I sought healing and growth through therapy and
participation in Adult Children of Alcoholics and Al-Anon groups. In graduate
school, I wrote my dissertation on treating those with a dual diagnosis, that
is, with both a substance use and mental health problem.
Working with my patients in private practice for the past
thirty years, I observed that many suffered from chemical dependencies and
process addictions, such as gambling, shopping, and sexual acting out. I
further noticed that many of my patients who suffered from anxiety, depression,
and anger felt possessed by their moods and powerless to overcome them. They
both loved and hated these moods. Their struggles for recovery were similar to
those of my other patients who were addicted.
Another seed for my approach to therapy was planted in my
career as a Catholic priest for fourteen years. When I left the active ministry
to be married, I began my studies in clinical psychology. As a psychologist, I
felt that the psyche (soul) was missing in my conventional psychodynamic
approach. I sought to unite the first and second halves of life, marked by
theological and then psychological pursuits, in my treatment approach. I
discovered the richness of the Eastern and contemplative traditions (mindfulness)
as a path to uniting them. I also came to see the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics
Anonymous as the most original American spirituality for healing and growth.
This last seed blossomed into the three books of essays I
wrote during the pandemic. Meeting with my patients throughout that period, I
learned of the devastating physical, emotional, and spiritual toll it took on
them and our society. In these books of essays, I reflect on various
controversial topics using the insights of both modern psychology and time-honored
spiritual wisdom.
BOOK OF THE YEAR FINALIST
For more posts about Dr. Ortman and his books, click HERE.
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