Up The Down Ladder: Simple Ideas to Overcome Depression

by Dolores Ayotte

... I've noticed something else in my travels. At times, the recollection of what happened to us to cause our depression can be skewed. It can build up in our minds as being much worse than what really occurred. It is only human to want to "pay back" others for what we think they did and for the grief that they caused.

If someone was really mean spirited toward you and caused you nothing but grief, I repeat, the best way to "get even" is to "get better". Remove your invisible "kick me" sign and don't allow anyone to get the better of you. Stop... and I do mean stop allowing people to put you down. It seems to be a human flaw that if someone feels lousy, someone else will capitalize on it. I hope that you read me loud and clear on this matter because I can't stress it enough. Work everyday at building up your self-esteem and your self-confidence. Make this the basis of your "new you" structure.

Genres: Inspirational

148 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 14, 2012

About the author

I am a wife, mother and grandmother. I have a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in psychology as well as teacher certification in Canada. I also have taken courses in human relationships and communication. Although, my primary focus has always been that of wife, mother and now grandmother, I have had a variety of jobs.

In my early thirties, after two severe bouts with depression, I first attempted to write a self-help book. I realize now, on looking back that I needed more experience in order to do so. My books are not fiction, but rather, they are books based on fact and my own personal healing journey.

http://www.amazon.com/Not-Perfect-Its...

The baker’s dozen (13 steps to a happier self) that I refer to in the subtitle of I’m Not Perfect And It’s Okay are based on the actual skills I developed along the way to better cope with my life. These steps are the best recipe I know to do just that because I have lived them and I know that they work. Both of my books are written in a more “do as I do” philosophy based on my own travels and figuring out how to cope with life’s trials and tribulations.

Each step that I have recommended, I have actually incorporated into my life. When I have an off day, as we all do, I still browse through my own recommendations. They continue to revive my drooping spirits when necessary. My greatest desire has always been to share my ideas so that others may benefit as well, if only in part, as they choose the steps that may apply to their lives.

I have now published three additional inspirational books.
http://www.amazon.com/Growing-Up-Liki...
http://www.amazon.com/Up-The-Down-Lad...
http://www.amazon.com/Womans-Voice-In...

I am now retired and spend half the year with my husband in a retirement community in Arizona. For the remainder of the year, I enjoy our children and grandchildren.

Reviews

[Uvi Poznansky · Rating 5 out of 5]

In UP THE DOWN LADDER, Dolores Ayotte reflects on her own lifelong learning, and aided with a great literary knowledge--as evident by the extensive bibliography at the end of the book--she offers the best, most compassionate advice for getting out of the rut. She does it with faith in the human spirit, and in the most gentle, tender way, which allows you to open up to her, and take it in.

With great understanding she encourages you, as a first step, to honestly admit what you are experiencing. Is it your job that is causing you grief? Is there an imbalance in the relationship between the husband and wife, particularly as they compare the sharing of family duties? In every difficulty you experience, the author suggests the first step in your journey toward personal fulfillment: instead of just spinning your back wheels, it is wiser to make some smaller life altering changes in order to get out of your negative situation. She proposes an honest question-and-answer session with yourself, to pinpoint the problem areas in your life and focus attention on finding a solution.

By design, each chapter begins and ends with a quote, both of which crystallize the ideas she has expressed here, and allows you to linger on them, to taste the words and with them, take yourself a step forward. The quotes also suggest that the wisdom here is more than one single woman, but rather the careful channeling of aggregate sagacity, belonging to many writers and philosophers. My personal favorites: Chapter 1, Little Things, ends with "Put the uncommon effort into the common task... make it large by doing it in a great way." Chapter 5, Dare to Dream, opens with "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams."

Five Stars.

[M.A. Comley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've had the pleasure of reading Dolores's wonderful work before and jumped at the chance to read and review this book knowing that I would not be disappointed in this woman's excellent prose.

Yes, this book is about depression but I never anticipated it being a dark and uncomfortable read, not with this lady writing it.
To be honest I didn't realise that Dolores I have so many similarities. I too have suffered with depression in the past and have battled hard over the years to find something meaningful that would chase away the darkest of clouds overhanging my head, thankfully my writing has cured me of all my depressive thoughts.

As Dolores states so eloquently throughout the book, you, and you alone, can change your life for the better.

I don't have a faith in God as such but Dolores has it in abundance, however I didn't feel in the least that her book was preaching at me.

Great read with some wonderful tales incorporated for both men and women to identify with.

Thank you, wonderful lady, for a terrific and inspirational read.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful Advice About Happiness and Contentment!

This book is about finding true happiness and contentment no matter what your life circumstances are. Once again, Dolores Ayotte shares her wisdom and life advice through personal stories, warm writing style, and humor.

It is aimed at everyone who wants to get "into the positive cycle of life" – and shouldn’t that be everyone? Advice from Dolores Ayotte can make anyone’s life more complete and happier, and this book has specific sections aimed at different kinds of people and different life problems.

A part of this book seemed to be written specifically for people who, like the author herself, have battled with (or are still facing) depression. Dolores Ayotte describes that time in her life as “drowning in my own despair” and talks about effective ways to take charge of your own life and your depression and start the healing process with self-awareness and with the evaluation of different aspects of your life, such as job and home life to see if they are causing you unhappiness.

This book does not offer any quick fixes that are guaranteed…to fail. Instead, it offer lots of good, thoughtful advice tested by life experience, such as about the dangers of comparing and competing with each other in a marriage – actions that can lead to nothing but resentment and grief.

Dolores Ayotte book also addresses issues of stay-at home vs. working moms of today’s generation. With more choices that women have today about the course of their family lives and careers comes more responsibility and sometimes more opportunities for…unhappiness since making the wrong choice is now one’s own responsibility and not that of society. I really like Dolores Ayotte’s definition of happiness as a combination of creative effort and the satisfaction of achievement.

From seeing problems to opportunities to the discussion of leadership, including corporate leadership, the book has a lot to offer its readers. Great advice. Highly recommended.

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although this book was meant to be a self-help sort of thing for people with depression, I found that I was able to take a lot out of it. I do not suffer from depression, but rather, severe anxiety issues. Many of the issues discussed in this book hit home hard for me. I've felt like I was at the bottom of the ladder, as if there were nothing more I could possibly do, and at times, I was ready to give up. I'm glad that I was able to read this book, because a lot of the advice and inspiration contained within it's pages were things I needed to hear right now. Although I honestly did not think I would walk away from this book feeling any better about myself or doing more with my life, I have been proven very wrong. I feel much better about myself, and I've decided to do some things to make myself feel even better. This book, actually, spurred me on, as silly as it seems, to deep clean my house. It's something that I have been meaning to do for months, and although I don't particularly enjoy the cleaning itself, I have always loved the feeling of sitting back and looking at the work I have accomplished. I am also going to begin riding my bike again because it's something I so enjoy- and, as a stay at home mom, it is something that gives me that half hour or an hour to myself, to do something I enjoy, and to stay fit while I'm at it! Although this book is geared towards those suffering from depression, I highly recommend it to everyone with even the smallest inkling of self doubt, or even the tinniest of burdens. It's an inspiration work I am very happy I read, and I believe that you feel the very same way.

[Cynthia Willow · Rating 5 out of 5]

This wonderful motivational book focuses mainly on depression, but even if you're not depressed, there is still a lot you can take from it. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and I wasn't sure if I'd get anything out of it since I'm not depressed. I have been depressed in my past though, and I wish I'd had a good positive read like this one. I love the way the author used stories to illustrate her points. I also like that it felt like she was just sitting down talking to me instead of giving a motivational speech. The other thing I really loved was the use of quotes. There were some really awesome quotes that fit in nicely with the sections of the book. Sure, any of us can look up motivational quotes on our own, but this author has taken the time to organize them and put them all in one place. Plus, she's been there and done the depression thing. She's been a stay-at-home mom and a work-away-from-home mom. She's educated and has worked in her profession, but she's also worked a job at a bank. What I mean is that she is relatable to just about anyone. She's down to Earth. This book has a very mild Christian theme, so even if you are not a Christian, you will still benefit from the tips in this book as they are universal. I really have nothing negative to say about this author's writing or about the book itself. Not every idea she had was a new one, but there is noting wrong with hearing something again. If you need a pick-me-up motivational type of book that is an easy read, give this one a shot. Kudos to Dolores Ayotte!

[Christine Hornback · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wholeheartedly endorse and recommend Up the "Down" Ladder written by Dolores Ayotte as a necessary read! Although Dolores is writing about a very serious issue called depression, she also delves into an array of issues that we all as human beings face. This book is not one of those analytical books that spews out a bunch of facts without solutions, instead, Dolores gently offers a number of proven suggestions to help stir us in the right direction. I believe that she sincerely desires to see broken lives mended.
I loved Up the "Down" Ladder as Dolores frankly places a mirror up to the reader's face so that they can see themselves. She doesn't "sugar coat" the fact, that if we do not like what we see in our own lives that the choice is all ours to change it. She also doesn't leave us without proven ideas and methods to help us make small steps toward the changes that must be made in order to come out of darkness into light. She encourages us to take small steps until we can take large strides.
I loved the honesty, wisdom, and experience that Dolores reveals about her own life. As you read the pages of her book, I hope that you will feel about Dolores as I did. I felt as though she was being a good friend to me because she simply and plainly showed me the truth about myself.

[Joyce Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

A most compelling read from beginning to end! Dolores Ayotte, author of Up the “Down” Ladder, gently takes you by the hand and takes you along for a ride on her roller coaster of emotional highs and lows of depression.

In a day when it’s hard to discuss some subjects, it’s encouraging to read a book that dives right into the heart of the dreaded sickness, DEPRESSION. In this book the reader is encouraged to look at the subject with a new look at life and a new relationship with God. The reader will learn that they are not alone in their condition and there is indeed help and hope for all who are afflicted. The words of the book seem to come from one who has first hand knowledge and some heart-felt advice for all who suffer in this condition. Whether the reader is depressed or not the book is an encouragement to look at the right sources for help in a world twisted and unsettled.

I enormously enjoyed reading this outstanding 5-star book. Thank you Dolores for your significant contribution to the world!

~“Life is like a bicycle. To keep your balance you must keep moving.”

~“Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it.”

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Up the "Down" Ladder is more than just another self-help read. It is insightful, inspiring, and uplifting, and very well written. It has humor and it also gives one pause, especially if you have never experienced depression. Having been diagnosed clinically depressed myself years ago, I can certainly relate to the author and was able to do so without being ashamed of my condition.

I especially enjoyed the chapter which spoke about being on the job and trying to change because the company's culture was changing; in order to move ahead in the bank they had to show that they had the wherewithal to do so -- they weren't just "picked" for promotions anymore, and what she learned from the experience:

"...However, leaders can be born or they can be created by having the opportunity to become one. Not all leaders remain leaders for their entire lives nor do all followers remain followers. Situations and opportunities can have a huge effect on any given individual’s choices."

Really good stuff here. I recommend this book.

[Ginae Lee Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

In author, Dolores Ayotte, self-help book, Up the Down Ladder, you will find a real life story that most people will be able to relate too. I loved the title of this book and it is perfect for the author's real life story. In each chapter the author brings out real wisdom and insight into our everyday life. Whether you have suffered from depression or not, each reader will be touched and moved by the honesty here and be encouraged by the truth of what she points out in life. The read is easy and will keep you taking notes all along!

Merged review:

In author, Dolores Ayotte, self-help book, Up the Down Ladder, you will find a real life story that most people will be able to relate too. I loved the title of this book and it is perfect for the author's real life story. In each chapter the author brings out real wisdom and insight into our everyday life. Whether you have suffered from depression or not, each reader will be touched and moved by the honesty here and be encouraged by the truth of what she points out in life. The read is easy and will keep you taking notes all along!

[William O'Brien · Rating 5 out of 5]

Up The "Down" Ladder by Dolores Ayotte

Blessings given!

We have all been in dark places from time to time - some more than others and it is reassuring to know many others experience similar events. Ayotte offers an abundance of help throughout the pages of 'Up The "Down" Ladder' in a friendly and comforting heart-felt manner.

I have read other works from the author, "I'm Not Perfect and It's Okay", and, "Growing Up and Liking It", which both were wonderfully inspirational for life's path and again, this book is superb.

Many of the words written are realistic, engaging and informative to help the reader cope with the multi-faceted aspects we all encounter on our journey.

The message is clear, 'never let life get you down - enjoy and appreciate the wonderful gift you have been given'.

It isn't always easy, but this book may make it a little easier. So, use the blessings given and remember why we are here in this beautiful world. Respect, motivate and reap the rewards you deserve!

Highly recommended 5*****

[Diana Montgomery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Up the Down Ladder by Dolores Ayotte

Suffering depression most people go through sometime in their life. Now how we handle it is another story. Dolores helps out by telling what she went through and what she did to get her out of it. I personally had a bad time with this it was not doctors who helped. Number one is what is your spiritual walk like. I found mine wasn’t where I thought. I realized I wasn’t letting God have the control in my life. Once I got this right and a wonderful husband who set and talked to me all ours of the night I got through it. Phil: 4 I read and read it. I liked that Dolores had a spiritual take on this. I liked the part if you put Effort in you will get results, No effort equals no results, and some effort will give you some results. Our life is what we put into it. It really is up to ourself what will be in our life. Liked the easy terms no medical terms. I think best thing for me was someone to talk to me. Really enjoyed the book.

[Reg Shell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Insightful





Having a little understanding depression, and who doesn’t at some stage of their live, I found Up The "Down" Ladder: Simple Ideas to Overcome Depression Kindle Edition by author Dolores Ayotte insightful and helpful. I highly recommend it.
He enjoyed reading a book on an issue so personal as depression that has been written in a personal narrative style. This is not a book filled with clinical advice dished out in an impersonal manner to which someone touched by depression might reject. In emphasising with the author’s pain and personal efforts to overcome her own setbacks, it is easier to take in the advice she has gained from her own experience and be prepared to use it.

This too, might be an ideal gift was someone you know we’re suffering from depression now.

[Sheryl Seal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Up The "Down" Ladder by Dolores Ayotte is yet again another wonderful and heartfelt read!
I have read previous work by this author, ' I'm Not Perfect and It's Okay' which I just loved and found very helpful in my life. As with that book, I find that I have many similar experiences in Up The "Down" Ladder and once again felt a deep connection. Always a strong faith and great inspiration, you can't help but enjoy this very creative writing style which the author has developed in her lifetime.
This is valuable information that everyone can benefit from and as always with Dolores Ayotte, she uses her own experiences spiced with humor which is always endearing.
Seriously, you will feel as if she is a dear friend sitting right beside you holding your hand.

[Cassandra Baker-Durham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Up the Down Ladder by Delores Ayotte, was written in a daily devotional type manner. Each chapter had a specific topic to help those that were dealing with depression find, strength and encouragement along the way. I specifically appreciated her personal testimony of things that had occurred in her life. It is through that lens in which we (the reader) are able to fully comprehend the greatness, grace and mercy of God. The book is written in such a manner that even those that do not suffer from depression will still be able to pull away instrumental life lessons. I loved it. Pick up your copy today!!

[Karen Ingalls · Rating 5 out of 5]

5.0 out of 5 stars Giving Hope, February 22, 2015
By KAREN INGALLS
Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: Up The "Down" Ladder: Simple Ideas to Overcome Depression (Kindle Edition)
This is a wonderful and insightful book about things we can do to improve our outlook on life. The reader does not have to suffer from depression to find helpful information. For those with depression this is the kind of book that would be most helpful as part of helping to live a healthier and happier life. There are many quotes from great philosophers, famous people, poets, and scholars.
Well done, Ms. Ayotte

[Simon Okill · Rating 5 out of 5]

A perfect title to a perfect book. Thank you Dolores for giving me the chance to read your book on coping with depression. There will always be a special place in my thoughts for you. For many years now I have suffered PTSD induced depression and Up The Down Ladder truly helped me come to terms with my problems. Some days I was Up and some days I was Down as if the ladder was purposely greased and against me. Now I have spiked boots and gloves to stop me slipping back down. This book is an absolute essential read to all sufferers of depression and sufferers of other anxiety based symptoms. Eternally grateful to Dolores Ayotte. Very highly recommended.

[Walter Rouzer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is valuable to anyone going through difficult times who desires a happier and more fulfilling life. There are many notable tools, real life examples, and valuable quotes. It teaches us to identify underlying problems, which oft times are hard to discover, and find ways to effectively deal with them. If anyone is willing to put forth the effort to implement some of the tools and teachings in this book I believe they can and will equate to real positive life changes. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone going through difficult times wishing to attain greater happiness and success in life.

[D.K. Cassidy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This inspirational book was a quick read, full of important information. I enjoyed the author’s use of motivational/thought provoking quotes at the beginning of each chapter. My favorite of these quotes is, “Life is like a bicycle. To keep your balance you must keep moving” ~Albert Einstein

Although intended for those who suffer from depression, I think it would be useful for anyone. The personal stories the author shares are uplifting. The author states, “This book is written fro those of you who really want to move into the positive cycle of life.”

[Julie Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was sent this book for review and found it to be inspiring and honest, as it comes from the very real thoughts and feelings of someone suffering depression.

Although I don't have the same beliefs, I certainly appreciate the integral message, to believe in and like oneself and face the world with hope and determination to do well whatever the circumstances.

A well written account which, in my opinion, could help others suffering from difficult times.

[Brandt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Depression is a tough and silent force in so many lives – more than we know. Often people close to us are battling without our knowledge. Up The "Down" Ladder by Dolores Ayotte addresses this topic in an authentic and inspiring way using her own life and stories to make her points. This is a wonderful work that leaves the reader positive and with a full heart.

[Allison Kohn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a short book full of a lot of wisdom and insight. When she says, "take the responsability for your own happiness," they aren't just empty words; she makes it easy to understand how to take her advise. Dolores ayotte is a wise woman to have for a frioend, and a good onversationalist. You will enjoy her company as you reqad and go away richer for the experience.