The 11 Best Mental Health Books

Maintaining good mental health requires various tools, such as exercising, therapy, and maintaining a healthy diet. Another valuable tool that can contribute to your mental well-being is reading. Books can provide insights, understanding, and practical tools to navigate difficult times and manage your mental health effectively. 

How to Choose a Good Book?

When choosing a mental health book, it's important to consider the following recommendations:

Variety

Opt for books that cover a wide range of mental health topics. Mental health is a complex and multifaceted subject, and exploring different perspectives and approaches can provide a more comprehensive understanding of your own mental well-being.

Author

Many mental health books are written by doctors, therapists, psychologists, neuroscientists, and other mental health professionals. Choosing books authored by experts in the field ensures that you receive accurate and reliable information.

Popularity

Some mental health books gain popularity and recognition through recommendations from mental healthcare professionals and readers. Considering popular books can provide you with a good starting point in your mental health journey.

Integrity

Select authors who genuinely aim to offer helpful and evidence-based information. It's important to choose books that prioritize the well-being of readers and provide actionable advice rather than promoting quick fixes or unsubstantiated claims.

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By considering these factors, you can choose a mental health book that resonates with you and provides the support you need on your mental health journey.

Read and Be Well: The 11 Best Mental Health Books

Reading is an effective way to gain insight into mental health and learn practical techniques to improve your well-being. Here are 11 highly recommended mental health books that offer valuable perspectives and tools:

Stop Overthinking by Nick Trenton

Stop Overthinking is an insightful and practical book that delves into the complexities of overthinking and offers effective strategies to overcome this debilitating habit. Through a compassionate and understanding approach, Trenton guides readers on a journey of self-discovery and self-empowerment, helping them understand the root causes of overthinking and how it impacts their lives. 

The book begins by unraveling the reasons behind overthinking, acknowledging that it is a natural response to stress and uncertainty. Trenton then skillfully dismantles the misconceptions surrounding overthinking, revealing it as a thought pattern that can be managed and controlled. By doing so, he reassures readers that they are not alone in their struggles and that change is possible. 

Throughout the book, Trenton combines insights from psychology, neuroscience, and personal experiences to provide a well-rounded perspective on the topic. He avoids overwhelming readers with technical jargon and instead offers practical advice that can be easily integrated into daily life. 

Who Should Read It: 

If you want to break free from the cycle of overthinking, reduce anxiety, manage stress, and cultivate a more balanced and peaceful mindset, Stop Overthinking can be a great book for you. It is also relevant for those who feel their perfectionism is doing more harm than good, procrastinators, individuals seeking personal growth, and mental health professionals.

Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents by Lindsay C. Gibson

Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents is a compelling self-help book written by Lindsay C. Gibson, a licensed clinical psychologist. Drawing upon her extensive experience and expertise, Gibson offers profound insights into the dynamics of dysfunctional parenting and the lasting impact it can have on adult children's emotional well-being. 

The book acts as a guide for individuals who grew up with emotionally immature parents, helping them understand and navigate the challenges they face. Through vivid case studies about childhood trauma, relatable anecdotes, and practical exercises, Gibson explores various types of emotionally immature parents, including those who are narcissistic, controlling, dismissive, or enmeshed. 

Gibson also highlights the common patterns and dynamics that exist within these parent-child relationships and provides valuable strategies for healing and personal growth. She emphasizes the importance of setting healthy boundaries, developing self-awareness, cultivating emotional resilience, and healing of trauma. 

The book helps readers recognize the emotional wounds inflicted by their parents and encourages them to embark on a journey of self-discovery and recovery. It offers a supportive framework for unpacking the complexities of their upbringing, processing unresolved emotions, and ultimately breaking free from destructive patterns. 

Who Should Read It: 

Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents is highly recommended for individuals who grew up with parents who were emotionally immature or exhibited dysfunctional behaviors.

It is particularly beneficial for adults who may still be grappling with the lingering effects of their upbringing, such as relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, or difficulty regulating emotions. 

Ultimately, anyone seeking to explore the impact of their upbringing, gain self-awareness, and embark on a journey of healing and personal growth can find Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents to be an invaluable resource.

What Happened to You? by Bruce D. Perry and Oprah Winfrey

What Happened to You? is a powerful and insightful book written by Dr. Bruce D. Perry, a renowned psychiatrist, and Oprah Winfrey, a prominent media personality. Together, they explore the profound impact of trauma on individuals' lives and provide a compassionate and science-based understanding of how experiences shape our brains, behaviors, and emotional well-being. 

In this book, Dr. Perry and Oprah Winfrey emphasize the importance of shifting the focus from asking, "What's wrong with you?" to "What happened to you?" They delve into neurobiology and offer compelling stories and examples to illustrate the ways in which adverse experiences can alter the development and functioning of the brain. 

Through a blend of personal narratives, scientific research, and practical guidance, the authors shed light on the long-lasting effects of trauma and highlight the importance of empathy, compassion, and resilience in fostering healing and growth. They offer strategies for developing self-awareness, building healthy relationships, and engaging in trauma-informed practices. 

By exploring the neurobiological underpinnings of trauma, the book promotes a sense of self-compassion and reduces self-blame. It fosters a greater understanding of how trauma can manifest in various mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, addiction, and interpersonal difficulties. This understanding can contribute to increased self-acceptance and improved overall well-being. 

Who Should Read It:

What Happened to You? is recommended for individuals who have experienced trauma or adverse life events and are seeking a greater understanding of their impact on their mental and emotional well-being. It is valuable for survivors of abuse, neglect, violence, accidents, or any other form of trauma. 

This book serves as a guide for individuals seeking to heal from trauma, professionals working in the mental health field, and those interested in fostering empathy, understanding, and resilience in themselves and others.

Permission to Come Home: Reclaiming Mental Health as Asian Americans by Jenny Wang 

Permission to Come Home goes through an empowering journey for Asian Americans toward reclaiming their mental health. Taking from her personal story as a Taiwanese American combined with her insights as a clinician and evidence-based tools, Dr. Jenny T. Wang explores a range of life areas that call for attention. Through this book she offers readers the permission to question actions, feel rage, say no, take up space, play, fail, and grieve. For Asian Americans, this book is a tool on the journey to wholeness. 

Who Should Read It:

Permission to Come Home is highly recommended for individuals who are Asian Americans, immigrants, and other minorities and marginalized people to practice mental and emotional self-care.

Are u ok? by Kati Morton

Are u Ok? is an essential and compassionate book written by Kati Morton, a licensed therapist and mental health advocate. With a warm and approachable style, Morton provides practical guidance and expert advice on navigating and caring for one's mental health by tackling topics like anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationships, boundaries, and self-care. 

Morton combines her professional expertise with personal anecdotes, creating a relatable and empowering guide to better understand and manage mental well-being. Through Are u Ok?, readers are encouraged to normalize conversations about mental health, destigmatize seeking help, and develop practical strategies to cope with various challenges. 

Morton's compassionate approach fosters a sense of self-acceptance, empowerment, and resilience as readers explore their own experiences and learn how to care for themselves and support others.

Who Should Read It:

Are u Ok? is a valuable resource for people of all ages and backgrounds who are interested in learning about mental health, caring for their own well-being, and supporting others. It is especially relevant for individuals who may be experiencing mental health challenges, seeking guidance on coping strategies, or looking to deepen their understanding of mental well-being. 

Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottlieb

Maybe You Should Talk to Someone is a captivating and deeply insightful book written by Lori Gottlieb, a psychotherapist and New York Times bestselling author. With honesty, warmth, and humor, Gottlieb takes readers on a journey through the world of therapy, sharing both her professional experiences as a therapist and her personal life journey as she seeks her own therapy. 

The book offers a unique perspective on mental health as it weaves together stories of Gottlieb's clients, her own therapy sessions, and her interactions with her therapist. Through these narratives, readers gain a deeper understanding of the human experience, emotional struggles, and the transformative power of therapy. 

Maybe You Should Talk to Someone highlights the universal nature of human emotions, reminding readers that seeking help is a courageous act that can lead to growth, healing, and a greater sense of self-awareness.

Who Should Read It:

Maybe You Should Talk to Someone is recommended for anyone interested in mental health, therapy, and personal growth. It is particularly relevant for individuals considering therapy or curious about the therapeutic process. The book offers a realistic portrayal of therapy, helping potential clients understand what to expect and the benefits it can bring. 

Be Calm: Proven Techniques to Stop Anxiety Now by Jill P. Weber

Be Calm: Proven Techniques to Stop Anxiety Now is a comprehensive and practical guide that can help readers effectively manage and alleviate anxiety in their lives. Drawing on the latest research and clinical insights, the author presents a step-by-step approach to understanding anxiety, its triggers, and how it manifests in different aspects of life. 

Through techniques used in cognitive-behavioral therapy,  mindfulness practices, and relaxation exercises, the book empowers readers to take control of their anxiety and develop a sense of calm and emotional resilience. 

With clear explanations and relatable examples, Be Calm equips readers with practical tools that can be integrated into daily routines, fostering long-term mental well-being.

Who Should Read It:

Be Calm: Proven Techniques to Stop Anxiety Now is recommended for those who experience anxiety and want to learn effective methods to manage it. If you or one of your loved ones are dealing with  anxiety-related conditions like generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, panic disorder, or specific phobias, this could be the book you’re looking for. 

The book is written in a reader-friendly manner, making it accessible to those with or without a background in psychology.

Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle by Emily and Amelia Nagoski

Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle is a transformative book written by two experts in the field of psychology and stress management. With a blend of scientific research, practical advice, and personal anecdotes, this book provides readers with a comprehensive guide to understanding and effectively managing stress in their lives. 

The book explores the nature of stress, its impact on mental and physical well-being, and offers strategies to break free from the cycle of stress. It introduces readers to the concept of completing the stress cycle by engaging in specific activities that help release and process stress in a healthy way.

Through relatable stories and relatable examples, readers gain insights into common stressors and learn how to identify their own unique stress response patterns. The book provides a range of evidence-based techniques and practices, including physical activity, mindfulness, self-care, and seeking support, that empower readers to take control of their stress levels and enhance their overall well-being.

Who Should Read It:

Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle is recommended for individuals who experience stress in their lives and are seeking effective strategies to manage and release it. It is relevant for anyone facing high levels of stress, such as work-related stress, relationship challenges, or life transitions. The book is suitable for individuals who want to deepen their understanding of stress and its impact on mental health. It offers practical techniques that can be integrated into daily routines to reduce stress levels and promote overall well-being.

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People is a renowned self-help book written by Stephen R. Covey. With timeless wisdom and practical guidance, this book presents a holistic framework for personal and professional development. It offers readers a set of powerful habits that can transform their lives, enhance their effectiveness, and improve their overall mental well-being. 

Covey's book is divided into seven core habits that cover various aspects of life, including self-awareness, goal setting, time management, effective communication, and fostering healthy relationships. The habits are rooted in principles of integrity, proactivity, and continuous growth. 

Through relatable examples and real-life stories, Covey illustrates how these habits can be applied in various areas of life, leading to greater productivity, improved relationships, and a deep sense of fulfillment. The book encourages readers to take responsibility for their choices and develop a proactive mindset in order to create positive change.

Who Should Read It:

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People is recommended for individuals who are seeking personal and professional growth and want to enhance their overall well-being. It is relevant for anyone looking to improve their effectiveness, productivity, and communication skills. 

The book is particularly valuable for those who feel overwhelmed, lack direction, or struggle with work-life balance. It offers practical tools and insights that can empower individuals to take control of their lives and align their actions with their values.

The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Dr. Bessel van der Kolk

The Body Keeps the Score is a groundbreaking book written by renowned psychiatrist and trauma expert, Dr. Bessel van der Kolk. Drawing on decades of research and clinical experience, this book explores the profound impact of trauma on the mind, body, and spirit, offering a deep understanding of the complex nature of trauma and its effects. 

In this book Dr. van der Kolk sheds light on the ways in which trauma can disrupt the body's natural healing processes and contribute to a range of mental health issues, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and dissociation. 

The Body Keeps the Score delves into the various therapeutic approaches that have proven effective in healing trauma, such as neurofeedback, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), somatic experiencing, yoga, and mindfulness practices. It explores the significance of integrating mind, body, and spirit in the healing journey and provides hope for recovery and restoration.

Who Should Read It:

The Body Keeps the Score is recommended for individuals who have experienced trauma and want to understand its impact on their mental and physical well-being. It is relevant for survivors of traumatic events, abuse, neglect, or those experiencing symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, or depression. 

The book is also valuable for mental health professionals, therapists, counselors, and healthcare providers who work with people impacted by trauma. It can deepen their understanding of trauma and provide evidence-based approaches to trauma treatment. It can inform their therapeutic interventions and contribute to more effective and compassionate care.

The Unexpected Joy of Being Sober by Catherine Gray

Drawing from her journey of overcoming addiction, Catherine Gray shares her transformational experience of embracing sobriety and the unexpected joys that come with it in this powerful and inspiring book. 

The Unexpected Joy of Being Sober offers a refreshing perspective on living an alcohol-free life and the positive impact it can have on mental health and overall well-being. Through candid storytelling, practical advice, and scientific insights, Gray dismantles the societal norms and myths surrounding alcohol. She explores the complexities of addiction, challenges commonly held beliefs, and presents a compelling case for choosing sobriety as a path to true happiness and fulfillment. 

The book provides readers with tools, strategies, and personal anecdotes to navigate the ups and downs of sobriety. It delves into various aspects of life affected by alcohol, including relationships, self-esteem, socializing, and self-care. Gray empowers readers to redefine their relationship with alcohol and embrace a life filled with authenticity, self-discovery, and genuine connections.

Who Should Read It:

The Unexpected Joy of Being Sober is recommended for anyone seeking a fresh perspective on alcohol, addiction, and how to lead a fulfilling life without substances. It is relevant for individuals struggling with alcohol addiction, and  anyone interested in exploring a life of sobriety. 

The book is particularly valuable for individuals who have experienced negative consequences related to their alcohol consumption and want to improve their mental health and overall well-being. 

Conclusion

While these 11 books cover a wide range of mental health topics, it's important to note that individual preferences and needs may vary. If you feel that another book resonates with you more or addresses specific mental health concerns you have, feel free to explore it as well.

By engaging with these insightful and informative books, you can gain valuable knowledge, tools, and perspectives to enhance your mental well-being and lead a more fulfilling life.

Remember, if you require professional support or further guidance, The Lanby is available to assist you. We provide comprehensive medical consultations and offer expertise in the areas of medicine, wellness, and coordination to support your mental health journey. If you'd like to learn more about our services you can book a free consult call.