Shadows in the Sun: Healing from Depression and Finding the Light Within Paperback – February 11, 2014

Overall, I enjoyed reading this memoir, but in many ways, it could have been improved. The caption on the front cover, “Healing from depression and finding the light within,” signals that the primary focus of the book is to guide the reader in his/her struggle with depression. Instead, the book is a description of one person’s struggle. A better caption would have been “My struggle with and victory over depression.”When advice is given, it is shallow. Chapters 12 and 13 outline some steps that can be taken to overcome depression. The epilog (page 253) gives worldwide statistics on the prevalence of depression. Also included is a three-page classification of disorders on the depression continuum, according to the American Psychiatric Association. However, there is no discussion of the causes of depression. I was disappointed that there was only a brief reference to substance-induced depression (page 267), even though there are thousands suffering from drug or alcohol induced depression during the current opioid epidemic (42,000 died in 2016 – many from suicide).Presentation also could have been better. I didn’t realize that I was pronouncing the author’s name, Gayathri, incorrectly until page 172, when the correct pronunciation was given, and then, for the remainder of the book, I was constantly correcting myself. In the Glossary of Indian Words, correct pronunciations also could have been included.I became frustrated with the wordiness of the descriptions and with unnecessary detail. I didn’t need a 5-page description of an Indian wedding or to know how many saris of which colors were given to the bridal party or what clothes and cooking utensils were packed for the journey to America or later on, that Montessori schools have more appeal for certain children.So, read this book only if you want to hear the story of one person’s struggle with the disease, but do not read it if you want solid help and guidance in overcoming it. If you do read the book, you will be taken on an incredible, enlightening journey into the culture of India as seen by a young Brahmin girl with a mental health issue and you will gain an understanding of the tremendous damage that cultural stigma does in impeding progress of those struggling to overcome depression and other mental diseases.

Gayu has an idyllic childhood as the oldest daughter in a respected Indian family. Her parents are fairly Americanized (especially her father) and believe that Gayu should focus on her education in preparation for emigrating to America one day. However, that doesn't mean that her family has moved beyond many deeply held Indian beliefs - and this tug of war between cultures is part of what made Shadows in the Sun an interesting memoir.I loved learning about the differences in Indian and American culture - and there are many! Indians believe in arranged marriage (Gayu's marriage is arranged), a patriarchal household and society (women's role at home is to serve the men - the women even serve the men dinner and only eat their own dinner once the men have finished!), dependence on extended family, and, most importantly for Gayu, and that mental illness brings shame and dishonor on the family. Gayu, like her father, is independent and "Americanized" and is constantly trying to be a "good daughter" according to both sets of cultural norms. This tension is part of what exacerbates her depression.In addition to the cultural differences, I loved seeing America through Gayu's eyes when she first arrived from India. She shares her childlike wonder at mundane things like quiet neighborhoods, escalators, and orderly parking garages.I liked reading about Gayu's recovery from depression, particularly her focus on overall wellness to manage her disease after drugs proved unsuccessful. And, her focus on general wellness is a good guide for both those living with and without depression.With this memoir, Ramprasad increased awareness of the Indian attitude toward mental illness and how damaging it is to those suffering with it. In India, mental illness is rarely acknowledged, much less treated appropriately. Many families resort to "prayer" and ancient rituals to "cure" a family member's depression - and that's if the family acknowledges the depression at all.While I wouldn't recommend Shadows in the Sun to everyone, it's a hopeful book for those suffering from depression (and their loved ones), particularly those who are not responding to drugs.For more reviews, check out my blog, Sarah's Book Shelves.

As a person living with depression I was curious if this memoir would be yet another positive think your way well story. Instead it is a compelling account of one woman's experience with depression and an honest critique of the burden of stigma and lack of mental health care in the world as a whole. Interspersed amidst Gayathri's personal story facts and statistics tell the other story about mental illness and the challenge in overcoming it. The cross cultural difficulties she faced are dealt with both honestly and sensitively. Excellent read.

Gayathri takes us on a beautiful journey from her life as a young girl in India, to her eventual inability to cope with the depressive disorder which almost derailed her life. However, she amazingly triumphs over adversity and heals herself from the darkest of dark corners that depression can bring. She has become a tireless advocate for others like her who suffer from mental illness. Her book will inspire and motivate anyone who has ever dealt with clinical depression. It is well written, and takes the reader on a spellbinding journey through life in both India and the U.S., and the difficulties faced from stigmatizing attitudes. This is a real page turner, and will give you hours of reading pleasure. I couldn't put it down. Whether you are a mental health provider, a family member, or a consumer, you will be riveted and informed by this memoir!-- Selina I. Glater, Mental Health Advicate, Speaker & Author

Arrived in less than 24 hours. I bought it for a friend so I cannot review the book itself, but all I can say: good quality and print + very fast delivery with amazon prime.

Amazing book written from the heart. Gayathri leaves out no facts in describing her struggle with depression. She lays bare the good , bad and ugly without restraint. A must read for those suffering from depression in India as it is still a stigmatized disease. I was bawling my eyes out reading some pages as her story hit close to home. I too suffer from the same disease and can identify with the South Indian context Gayathri speaks from. Hats off to Gayathri for coming forth with this.

Given 3 stars because while reading this book felt like watching an 80s movie and the author seem to be obsessed with America...This book is not for me I guess 😐😐😐😐

Good book worth reading

Such a wonderful book!! While reading this book u feel lyk u r living with the author!! Anyone whu has been through such phase in life should definitely read this buk!!