Abstract

*Highly Commended in the Psychiatry category at the 2012 British Medical Association Book Awards*

A near-death experience (NDE) is a phenomenon whereby powerful physical and emotional sensations and visions are experienced by someone who is either close to death or has been declared clinically dead.

This is an accessible guide to the theory and evidence underlying the phenomenon of NDEs. With contributions from leading international experts in the field, it provides an overview of the research into NDEs, the nature of NDEs and how they have been experienced around the world, and the physiological, psychological and medical bases of the phenomenon. The book also discusses children's NDEs, NDEs from a religious perspective, the role of light in NDEs, the assessment and management of NDEs, and the future of research into the phenomenon.

This essential handbook will provide all those who may encounter someone who has had an NDE with the knowledge and understanding they need, including nurses, doctors, palliative care workers, psychologists, psychiatrists and pastoral workers.

Making Sense of Near-Death Experiences is an invaluable resource for clinicians and other health care professionals who need to inform themselves about the nature and profound personal significance of NDEs. Presenting the latest research and clinical findings representing over 30 years of work, leading experts in the field provide a comprehensive and illuminating overview of one of the most important and transformative experiences of modern times, one that has affected many millions of people. For everyone who comes into contact with such people and hopes to help and understand them, this book is a must.
Kenneth Ring, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus of Psychology at the University of Connecticut, Co-founder and past President of the International Association for Near-Death Studies

*Highly Commended in the Psychiatry category of the 2012 BMA Medical Book Awards*

'This book is particularly strong on cross-cultural comparisons. It can be warmly recommended.'

Journal of the Society for Psychical Research
Undergraduates, journalists and healthcare providers all point to the need for resources that familiarize and inform about NDEs. Making Sense of Near-Death Experiences offers readers just such a resource. ... [R]eaders will come away from this book with not only an understanding of diverse viewpoints about NDEs but also an awareness of the complexity of the field of near-death studies and an appreciation for the value of continued research in the field.
From the Foreword by Janice Holden, Editor, Journal of Near Death Studies and Chair, Department of Counseling and Higher Education, University of North Texas, USA
This is a truly thought-provoking read.
The British Journal of Psychiatry

This book is subtitled "a handbook for clinicians", but it is going to be welcomed by anyone who is seriously interested in the scientific research into NDEs, particularly clergy and those with a pastoral ministry.

This is a collection of essays or papers, and this is both a strength and a drawback. For people who wish to look at specific aspects of the research, whether it is to compare NDEs in the East and West, or different cultures, religious affiliations, or those of adults and children, these are topics covered here.

The Sign
it is illustrated throughout by case vignettes from people who have had near-death experiences. This brings the book alive and makes it accessible for non-clinical specialists as well as for those with a more academic interest in the subject.
The Journal of Health Care Chaplaincy