Ok, I’m going to be honest. When it comes to “self help” books, especially ones about mental health, I am the WORST person. They all seem to say the same thing and then I just feel horrible about myself because I’m not doing the things I “should” be doing to feel great. Ugh.
But I love being able to offer resources to others that have helped me. And fortunately, along the way, I have found some gems that seem to work for me. They’re books I feel great talking about and sharing. That’s not to say they’re the best or the only—just that I got something out of these books in a way that finally resonated, and I felt like I could DO something with them. You know? So here’s my list in no particular order:
5 Self Help Book Recommendations
The Art of Communicating by Thich Nhat Hanh
Mr. Hanh is a Buddhist monk who has written many books that I’ve found helpful and simple to read. The Art of Communicating was different from other self-help books in that, within the first two pages, I found information I’ve been able to actually apply to my thinking over and over. And as the book goes on, he talks about how to live in healthier situations too. Really though, this book is worth it to have on hand just for those first few pages alone, at least for me. I can reread those pages whenever I get a little lost in my thinking about people.
Flow by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi
I totally admit it— I copied and pasted his name from Google. But the complexity of his name for me is in complete contrast to the straightforward nature of his writing. His research on happiness and what it takes to be truly happy is so applicable and so simple. I’m able to use the information to question what I’m doing and why, and if it is working towards my goals in life. He also has follow-up books to this one so if you really love it, they are available.
Quiet by Susan Cain
As an introvert who has learned to function in an extroverted world, this book was a balm to me when I was being criticized for staying home too much. She advocates for the introvert, explaining why we are just as important as the much-valued extrovert. She also explains introversion in a way that was helpful for me to use with my loved ones so they could know I’m not rejecting them… it’s really how I re-fuel. Again, this is a simple, straightforward read that feels like you are reading a fiction book.
Learned Optimism by Dr. Martin Seligman
Seligman is the father of positive psychology, which is a branch of cognitive behavioral therapy. What I loved about this book is that it gives a clear outline of four ways you can challenge negative thoughts. I have used these four options with clients and they have found some success with it. While it definitely reads more like a textbook, it isn’t too dry—kind of how people describe white wine!
Memory Rescue by Dr. Daniel Amen
This selection is definitely the most scientific sounding of them all. He includes brain scans to show how our brains are able to recover from a variety of traumatic events that we often cause to them. The other thing about it is that it’s very hopeful. It shows how our brains can evolve well into our elderly years and that, if we do things to help it now, we may never have to face the challenges that come with dementia or Alzheimer’s. When I saw him speak, the projected odds of people in the US experiencing these diseases were horrific in the next few years. So I experimented with his approaches for a year. Let’s just say I’m continuing to follow much of his advice because I noticed many positive results, and I believe it has helped me to not have a lot of the overwhelm I would usually feel going through the significant stresses of the last two years.
This one is more of an addendum: Untamed by Glennan Doyle
In all fairness, I haven’t read it. But I hear about it almost once or twice a month from clients about how awesome it is. So I had to add it.
So there you have it: five self help books that resonated with me. Ultimately, the best self-help book is one that you get something from. As long as that happens, then it is a great book!
If you’re looking for some support that offers a more personal connection, Dochas could be the perfect fit for you. Send us an email at info@dochaspsych.com and let’s chat about how we can help you.
Until next time, take care,
Kim
About Dóchas Psychological
Dóchas Psychological Services is a well-established and trusted therapy clinic located in Spruce Grove, Alberta. At Dóchas we value the idea that everyone deserves a safe space. Through connection and education, our team works hard to build a trustworthy relationship with each of our clients. It is our goal to create a community for our clients to feel like they belong.
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