It’s been a tough few years and It’s fair to say that most of us need a little help to stay afloat. The great news is that you are not alone on this daily journey. Whether is bearing the unbearable on tough days, looking for a little inspiration on the “in-between” days, or experiencing an aha-moment on a good day … books provide more than just comfort. For those looking to learn new skills outside of therapy, books written by experts and licensed professionals actually offer help.
Research shows that reading has the power to change your brain and create different patterns within it. Books can aid your mental health toolkit by providing different techniques, scientific research, and stories of others who have faced the same hurdles. Need a book rec?
We’ve handpicked a few inspirational books worth mentioning:
- “Calm The F*ck Down” by Sarah Knight is must-read. It get’s into what’s considered productive worrying and how to accept things that you cannot control.
- “What Happened to You” by Bruce Perry and Oprah Winfrey is a book that help us look at the trauma we’ve endured that lead us to our reactions. It’s a shift from wondering “What’s wrong with you?” to “What’s happened to you?”
- “The Courage to be Disliked” by Khiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga is advice on how to break free from others’ expectations and move past the limitations we put on ourselves.
- “Set Boundaries, Find Peace” by Nedra Glover Tawwab. Can’t say no? This one’s for you.
- “I Thought it Was Just Me” by Brene Brown is about struggling with perfectionism, people pleasing, and anxiety about what others think.
- “Good Enough” by Kate Bowler and Jessica Richie is a compassionate daily reflection laced with humor and gentle encouragement.
- “You’re Going to Be Okay” by Madeline Popelca shows you the upside of a devastating experience to shift your perspective, comfort you, and help you feel less alone.
- “Kind of Coping” is an illustrated look at life with anxiety by Maureen Wilson. Who said you need a serious book about mental health? Hilarious and relatable cartoons on coping with anxiety will lighten your load.
- “Make Your Bed” by William H Mcraven is about the little things that make you feel empowered.
- “Let That Sh*t Go” by Kate Petriw and Nina Purewal shows you how to put your life into perspective by stealing moments of calm amid the chaos.
Although mental health books offer advice and inspiration to the casual reader, there is no substitute for professional help. If you need help, contact a mental health professional sooner rather than later.
Happy reading everyone!
Source: wellnessroadpsychology.com, healthline.com, amazon.com, womenshealthmag.com, sadag.org, penguinrandomhouse.com
