11 Best Books for Anxiety
Did You Know?
40 million adults in the United States aged 18 years and above (about 18% of the total population) suffer from anxiety disorders every year. Yet, only 36.9% of these individuals actually seek treatment despite anxiety disorders being highly treatable. A large percentage of people still struggle with anxiety. It’s totally okay to feel anxious occasionally, especially in response to stressful situations or events. That’s normal. It becomes a problem when you have anxiety for a long period of time. It can start to affect your response to situations or triggers, and overall, interfere with your daily functioning.
Anxiety disorders can make it really difficult to get through the day or even complete tasks at work or school. It includes a variety of symptoms such as racing heart, rapid breathing, chest pain, nausea, stomachaches, diarrhea, difficulties concentrating, feelings of dread or panic, irritability, difficulty sleeping, and changes in appetite. Anxiety disorders can also present in different ways based on the type of disorder. For example, people with a social anxiety disorder (a type of anxiety disorder) tend to avoid social situations like using public toilets, eating in public, or shopping. They have an intense fear of talking with a stranger and excessively worry about embarrassing themselves. Other types of anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, separation anxiety disorder, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder, agoraphobia, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Thankfully, you don’t have to live with anxiety because anxiety is treatable. It’s up to you to find what treatment works for you. Whether it’s adopting a healthy lifestyle, meditating every day, practicing deep breathing exercises, cognitive behavioral therapy, or trying out other forms of talk therapy. You may have to combine most of these approaches for the best results. While they are not a substitute for therapy, reading self-help books for anxiety could help you on your treatment journey.
Can reading books help anxiety?
I could write an entire book on how helpful and enjoyable reading is. The impact of reading books in the personal development and self-help space spans far beyond what it could do for anxiety and depression. Other than the fact that reading is enjoyable, it is also good for your emotional and mental health. The words by Joseph Addison pretty much sum it up: Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body. In this post, I will focus on books that I’ve found to be helpful for overcoming anxiety.
There are many studies to back up the many benefits of reading.
Reading books can help you overcome stress and relax effectively. When you open a book, especially fiction, you suddenly get sucked into the perspective of another person. Your attention is completely fixed on what you are reading. Your mind is being engaged, and your imagination is opened. It won’t be long before you begin to relax, your muscle tension eases, and you’re less stressed. One study at the University of Sussex in 2009 revealed that reading for just six minutes can help reduce your stress levels, heart rate, and muscle tension by up to 68%. It does it even better than listening to music, going for a walk, or drinking tea. “It really doesn’t matter what book you read, by losing yourself in a thoroughly engrossing book, you can escape from the worries and stresses of the everyday world and spend a while exploring the domain of the author’s imagination,” says the study’s co-author and neuropsychologist David Lewis.
Reading books has also been proven as an effective coping strategy for mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression. Through bibliotherapy, mental health professionals are recommending reading to patients to help them recover. Reading can also make you feel more compassionate to yourself and others. Being exposed to several characters in a fictional book can give you an understanding of people and can help you improve your relationships.
- Lower blood pressure
- Improve your quality of sleep
- Open you to new ideas, thoughts, and perspectives
- Boost your social skills
- Improve your overall health
Self-help books, too? Even better. I know that there is a lot of skepticism around reading self-help books. A lot of authors make false claims and even do more harm than good. But there is still good that can come out of reading self-help books. Reading self-help books can help you see things in a positive light. It can help you understand better how anxiety works and what role your brain plays in all of it. Plus, it’s a great way to expose yourself to different approaches and practical techniques that work for others. A good self-help book can actually inspire you to change your mindset, adopt a new behavior, and motivate you. One study found that guided self-help and CBT books resulted in lower levels of depression after one year compared to patients who used treatment as usual. Another study that used self-help books on mindfulness discovered that it effectively reduced stress, anxiety, and depression. While self-help books may offer good advice and recommendations about what you should and should not do, they must not take the place of an expert or professional’s diagnosis, treatment plan, or advice. Want to start reading? Here are the best books on anxiety and stress, according to experts.
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This read by Elizabeth Karle and Catherine Pittman Ph.D. offers an understanding of how and why anxiety came about in the first place, as well as evidence-based strategies to overcome anxiety.
The author, Bessel van der Kolk, reveals how trauma alters certain areas in the brain and how these areas can be restored through proven alternative treatments.
In this pick, the author empowers readers to take control of their choices and focus on doing what really matters.
The creator of EMDR therapy, Francine Shapiro, reveals why people act the way they do and offers practical techniques to improve their relationships and overcome emotional barriers through the lens of trauma treatment.
Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway
A practical guide that empowers readers to push through their fear and create the life that they envision.
This pick by Dr. Claire Weekes is a result of techniques she has seen work for her patients.
The author shares his own experience with anxiety and panic issues and communicates in simple terms ways to recover.
Fear: Essential Wisdom for Getting Through the Storm
Buddhist Zen Master and author, Thich Nhat Hanh, explores the roots of fear and offers powerful tools to help overcome chronic fear and anxiety.
With this pick, discover the origin of anxiety and explore ways to treat anxiety using scientifically-proven functional medicine combined with a ketogenic low-carb approach.
The Anti-Anxiety Food Solution
This guide may help you discover anti-anxiety nutrient therapy and a diet that could help you address the root causes of your anxiety.
The author, Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride explains the link between Gut and Psychology Syndrome (GAPS), learning disabilities, and nutrition and shares what diet is appropriate and is not for those who suffer from GAPS.
Bonus: Forward Facing Freedom
This book shows you how to have freedom from anxiety, stress, self-criticism, and despair by teaching simple techniques for self-regulation.
The 11 Best Books on Anxiety and Stress of 2021, According to an Expert
Rewire Your Anxious Brain: How to Use the Neuroscience of Fear to End Anxiety, Panic, and Worry
Pros
- Easy to read and understand
- Very informative
- Effective techniques
Cons
- Techniques require lots of practice
This pick gives readers a deep understanding of how anxiety is formed in the brain while highlighting practical ways to overcome it. Psychologist Catherine Pittman and author Elizabeth Karle highlight neuroscience and research-based strategies for responding and overcoming anxiety. Using the practical exercises and evidence-based techniques provided in this book, tap into the brain processes underlying your fear.
The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma
Pros
- Based on lots of research
- Very informational
- Effective techniques
Cons
- Specific focus on PTSD
- May trigger unwanted memories
- May be overwhelming for some
- Very lengthy book at 466 pages
Renowned psychiatrist, trauma expert, and researcher Bessel van der Kolk introduces readers to the basics of trauma, opening their understanding to how trauma shapes the brain and body. He also gives insights into how trauma changes our ability to enjoy things we used to enjoy, build trust and relationships, and take control of our lives. This read is heavily based on many years of the author’s research and other top specialists. It offers numerous treatment approaches, including meditation, yoga, and neurofeedback that can aid recovery.
Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less
Pros
- Very informational
- Quite practical
Cons
- Requires lots of practice in real life.
Greg Mckeown invites readers to the “Way of the Essentialist,” a way out of overload, overwhelm, and underproductivity. The author highlights the necessity of pursuing to encourage productivity in only the right things. In this book, you will be empowered to take control of your life and make decisions about spending your time and energy on what really matters.
Getting Past Your Past: Taking Control of Your Life with Self-Help Techniques from EMDR therapy
Pros
- Easy to understand language
- Conversational and practical
- Scientifically proven techniques
Cons
- Lots of exercises
- Quite lengthy at 352 pages
A practical user’s guide designed by the creator of a scientifically-backed form of psychotherapy – Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Francine Shapiro PhD, to empower readers to break through limitations and begin to see real transformation in their lives. This pick explains how and why we act the way we do, using detailed examples and exercise, and equip readers with the tools to get emotionally unstuck.
Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway
Pros
- Easy to read and understand
- Practical
Cons
- Strategies may require lots of practice
American psychologist Dr. Susan Jeffers offers readers a chance to break free from fear in this detailed guide. She empowers readers with powerful concepts and effective techniques that help them face their fears and create a life of meaning, peace, and freedom.
Hope and Help for Your Nerves: End Anxiety Now
Pros
- Simple, practical step-by-step guide
- Easy to understand
Cons
- Uses outdated language
- Originally published in 1969, maybe thought as outdated and irrelevant
- Takes practice to implement strategies
Based on her many years of experience and successes in treating her patients, Dr. Claire Weekes offers a practical guide to understand your anxiety symptoms and empower you to break the cycle of fear, panic, and anxiety in your life.
Available on the Kindle store for $14
At Last A Life
Pros
- Easy to read and understand
- Very informative and practical
- Readers who suffer with anxiety feel understood and supported in many of their experiences
Cons
- Strategies may take practice
- Short book at 148 pages, may be thought to be ineffective as a full answer to many
This read is a result of the author’s experience with anxiety and how he was able to recover from anxiety, panic, and depersonalization. As someone who has had his fair share of anxiety, the author, Paul David, goes beyond anxiety and talks about all of the symptoms that are usually associated with it.
Fear: Essential Wisdom for Getting Through the Storm
Pros
- Easy to read, understand, and practice
- Effective techniques
- Addresses the origins of fear and anxiety
Cons
- Techniques would require lots of practice
- Short book at 172 pages, may be thought to be ineffective.
In this simple yet powerful guide, Vietnamese Buddhist Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh, drawing on his years of experience, explores the root cause of our fear and empowers readers to find joy and freedom. This read offers tools like meditation, mindfulness, and breathing exercises to eliminate anxiety from your life.
The Anti-Anxiety Diet: A Whole Body Program to Stop Racing Thoughts, Banish Worry and Live Panic-Free
Pros
- Easy to understand language
- Well organized
- Very detailed and informational
Cons
- Very technical and can be overwhelming
- Recommendations may be difficult to practice
- May be difficult to stick to a restrictive diet
This read explains in simple terms the influence of diet on your brain and how it can affect your emotions and mood. Using a functional medicine approach, the author has created a system that uses a keto diet plan to help you heal from anxiety. In this read, integrative dietitian and food-as-medicine guru, Ali Miller, provides readers with quizzes and lab and supplement recommendations to help you identify the origin of imbalances in your body so as to address them. This book offers you access to 50 different recipes that will help balance your stress chemicals and hormones, make you feel relaxed, and at the very least satisfy those cravings you may have.
Available on the Kindle store for $12 and $18 on Audible
The Antianxiety Food Solution: How the Foods You Eat Can Help You Calm Your Anxious Mind, Improve Your Mood, and End Cravings
Pros
- Easy to use index
- Clearly written and easy to understand
- Very informative
Cons
- May take a lot of practice implementing recommendations
- May be difficult to stick to food restrictions
Food Mood Expert and Certified Nutritionist Trudy Scott believe that the food you eat can have an impact on your brain’s chemistry and affect your moods, thoughts, and behavior. With the Anti-anxiety Food Solution, you’ll be empowered to address nutritional deficiencies which may be the source of your anxiety, identify foods and drinks that trigger your anxiety, and discover the best foods that result in chemical and emotional balance in your brain. Discover a natural way to heal from anxiety and enjoy an improved mood, better sleep, and overall health.
Gut and Psychology Syndrome: Natural Treatment for Autism, Dyspraxia, A.D.D., Dyslexia, A.D.H.D., Depression, Schizophrenia
Pros
- Very informative
- Suitable for people looking for natural treatments for learning disabilities and certain mental health issues like depression and schizophrenia
Cons
- It’s not easy to implement
- Requires you to follow strict diet recommendations that may eventually become difficult to keep up with
- Quite lengthy at 392 pages
- Especially focused on learning disabilities
This book by Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride is a result of her knowledge and experiences on learning disabilities and digestive disorders. She has first-hand experience of what it’s like to suffer from learning difficulties as the parent of a child diagnosed with it and thus is able to help other parents like her. She believes that a link exists between what we eat or drink, learning disabilities, and the state of our gut. The author believes that all diseases result from GAPS and shares gives recommendations on how to heal them. This book offers a natural cure for depression, autism, gut disorder, dyslexia, ADD/ADHD, or schizophrenia.
Bonus Recommendation:
Forward-Facing(R) Freedom: Healing the Past, Transforming the Present, A Future on Purpose
Pros
- Very informative
- Trauma no longer needs to be revisited, and healing can occur in the present without flashbacks, reliving the moment, or talk therapy
- Everyone can implement the techniques at any time, and for free
Cons
- Techniques are simple, but not always easy
- Requires practice and commitment
This book by J. Eric Gentry with Jenny Brackman gives practical advice on overcoming trauma to live a life aligned with your own morals and values, and no longer be a prisoner to your own trauma responses. Dr. Eric Gentry’s work has been expansive in educating patients, clients, caregivers, and professionals in resilience and trauma therapy. This is the first book of his with an emphasis on practice within a peer-to-peer context, teaching the skills that any person can begin using to heal themselves, today.
What to Consider Before Buying Books to Calm Anxiety
When you’re looking to buy self-help books for anxiety, you might be overwhelmed by the sheer volume of books to choose from. I mean, there are tens of thousands of books to select from…all promising something grand. Every year, more and more authors publish their opinions and works, and it can get confusing to know which book would be most helpful for you and your current situation. If you’re looking to select the best books on anxiety and stress, here are some things you should watch out for:
1. The Writer’s Credentials
There are a lot of self-help books for anxiety out there. Everyone is saying something about anxiety, even those without experience, so it becomes easy to buy a book that may not be authentic and credible. The most technical books on anxiety and stress are written by people with advanced degrees and years of research and experience in their fields. When buying a book on anxiety, consider sticking to authors who are professionals or experts in the medical or mental health field.
Look out for the following mental health professionals:
- Psychiatrist (MD or DO)
- Psychiatric nurse
- Psychologist (PhD or Psy.D.)
- Mental Health Counselor (Licensed or Professional)
- Mental Health Coaches/Trauma Informed Coaches
- Licensed Independent Social Workers (LICSW)
- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
- Family Nurse Practitioners (M.S. or PhD)
- Pastoral Counselors
Also, look out for books published through university presses.
2. Scope
Another thing to consider when buying a book is the extent covered by the book. You don’t want to buy a book that just talks about everything and doesn’t delve into the specifics of the topic. One study showed that the most effective books for anxiety and depression were those that targeted something specific, like social anxiety or generalized anxiety disorder, rather than something promising to generally “Change Your Life”. A book with a narrow scope with a focus on specific issues allows the author to offer a deep understanding of the topic and give specific advice.
3. Scientific research and evidence backing the information provided in the book.
Before buying that book, make sure that the information and techniques recommended in the book are backed by scientific research. While a person’s personal journey may help guide you on your own path of recovery, recommendations based on scientific evidence can be helpful to a larger demographic. You can be sure that the information given by the author is pretty trustworthy and credible. Look out for books based on evidence-based techniques for anxiety, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), etc.
4. A book that targets your specific symptoms so as to provide specific advice.
A good self-help book should be able to help you realize what you’re feeling and empower you to push through.
5. Techniques
Consider buying books offering techniques that are clear and easy to implement. Books that allow you to keep track of your progress and help you tackle your specific issues. Buying a book that offers solutions that you can’t apply to your own life would just be a waste of time and money. It should be a book that contains some sort of guide or step-by-step instructions and worksheets that motivates you to take action and help you monitor your progress rather than leave you confused and wondering what to do next.
6. Easy to Read and Understand
A self-help book doesn’t have to be technical and boring to read. Consider buying a book that you can relate to, understand, and apply.
7. Length
The length of the book is something you should consider when looking for the best books on anxiety and stress. Short doesn’t necessarily mean ineffective. It may even be better for you if you have a lot going on in your life. But if you’re willing to sit through a book of 350+ pages, then that’s awesome.
8. Credible
Avoid books that make grand claims – books that promise to “change your life in 14 days” or promise “miracle cures.”
9. Relatable
There are thousands of self-help books to choose from, but there will usually be a couple that resonate with you and is specific to your needs or tastes. Consider buying a book that you relate to, even if it isn’t the most popular. So, before you pick up that book to buy, think about it. Does it motivate you? Do you think you’ll be willing to apply the advice given?
10. Reviews
I know it can be difficult taking in reviews with all their hook, line, and sinker language, probably made up by some bot or paid reviewer. Nonetheless, they cannot be totally ignored. Checking out the reviews on a book can help you decide on whether you should buy the book or not. If a particular book or author has several glowing reviews, then it’s very likely that the book might be worthwhile for you. Consider using Goodreads or Amazon to read reviews.
11. Format
Another thing to consider when buying a self-help book is the format. Is it available in a Kindle or ebook format, audio format, paperback, or hardcover version? Think about and select which one suits you more.
Checklist for buying a self-help book on anxiety
- Writer’s credentials
- Specific content scope
- Scientifically-backed
- Targets your specific issues
- Actionable and effective techniques
- Easy to read and understand
- Not too lengthy
- Credible and trustworthy
- Relatable
- Glowing reviews
- Format
In addition to reading books for anxiety, journaling could actually be a big help. Countless studies have shown the positive effects journaling has on mental and emotional health. Often underappreciated, journaling is actually very effective in reducing anxiety symptoms, especially when used with meditation and mindfulness. Most people actually shy away from journaling because they don’t know how and where to start, they don’t think it’s effective and are too “busy” to sit still for it. I have been in this camp myself!
Journaling is a simple yet powerful tool that can help you:
- Write down your experiences and challenges
- Clears your mind
- Release those anxious or angry feelings
- Improve your mood
- Keep track of your progress
Thinking of buying an anxiety workbook or journal? Here are my top picks.
A guided journal designed to help you release negative thoughts and embrace positivity and happiness using writing exercises based on scientifically-backed therapies.
Designed to help you release false beliefs that do not align with who you really are, using guided prompts and meditations and a 30-day tapping practice.
Ideal for those constantly fixated on others, this book contains exercises, self-assessments, and journaling to empower you to build resilience and strength to take care of yourself.
A timeless workbook containing exercises that help you “draw the line” and take control of your life.
The 4 Best Anxiety Workbooks, According to an Expert
Getting to Good: A Guided Journal
Pros
- Step-by-step instructions
- Easy to understand and implement
- Beautiful layout and design
- Insightful
- Effective techniques
Cons
- Lots of exercises
- Can be time-consuming to complete
- Requires lots of dedication
- Not made specifically for anxiety
This pick created by author and Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Elena Walsh, will empower you to think positively and practice gratitude. And build the life you really want using writing exercises and prompts, which are rooted in evidence-based therapies, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing, as well as strategies that motivate you to continually express positive feelings and thoughts, and practice gratitude. When you’re feeling unhappy or fulfilled, this journal will lead you to a place of happiness and appreciation and empower you to live the life of your dreams. This journal is 198 pages long, and features writing prompts to help you focus on the good in your life along the way.
Judgment Detox Journal: A Guided Exploration to Release the Beliefs That Hold you Back From Living a Better Life
Pros
- Contains prompts, meditations, and exercises
- Allows you to monitor and celebrate your progress
- Inspirational
Cons
- Limited writing space
- Does not target anxiety specifically
New York Times bestselling author Gabrielle Bernstein believes that judging others and being judged lies at the core of our discomfort. Designed as a companion journal to her book, Judgement Detox, it follows the steps outlined in the Judgment Detox to guide you to release beliefs that do not align with who you really are and empower you to live a better life. From guided prompts and meditations, exercises in self-acceptance and forgiveness, to a 30-day tapping practice for improving and practicing your emotional freedom technique, this journal sets you up for healing and transformation. This journal contains 240 pages and guided prompts for reflection around specific themes.
Codependent No More Workbook
Pros
- Practical
- Very Informative
- Contains exercises and self-tests
Cons
- Lots of exercises and activities
- Not much writing space
- Not focused on anxiety
For codependents, being in a relationship with someone who has depression, an eating disorder, an addiction, or makes unhealthy decisions can be extremely toxic, slowly chipping away at one’s own self-esteem. This workbook is designed to offer insights, hope, and empower you to heal and be the best version of yourself and connect the dots of codependence. Complete with exercises, self-assessments, and hands-on guided journaling to help you implement strategies as outlined in the book, Codependent No More, help you set healthy boundaries, build a support system, and detach from other’s harmful behaviors. This is a practical workbook that is 200 pages long.
Boundaries Workbook: When to Say Yes When to Say No to Take Control of Your Life
Pros
- Expert Authors
- Insightful
- Practical
Cons
- Not specific to anxiety
A companion guide to the book, Boundaries, this workbook was designed by Psychologists and New York Times bestselling author Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend to provide you with practical exercises that help you set appropriate limits with your family, friends, coworkers, and technology. It draws on biblical principles to answer questions you may have about setting boundaries. If you want to know how and where to draw the line, and want to stop feeling guilty about it, then this pick is for you. This workbook is 219 pages long.
P.S. Don’t forget to grab a pencil when buying, cause you’re going to be doing a couple of exercises in these workbooks!
What to Consider Before Buying Workbooks for Anxiety
Before you buy an anxiety workbook or journal, look out for the following:
- Clarity
It’s easy to get confused or lost when it comes to journaling, especially if you’re a beginner. Having some sort of guidance will go a long way in encouraging you to write or complete exercises. When buying a workbook or journal for anxiety, consider one that has clear prompts or guidelines to motivate you to keep writing and thinking positively every day and help you sustain the habit for a long time.
2. Techniques
Another thing to watch out for when buying a workbook or journal for anxiety is the techniques. Are they backed by science or based on evidence? Are they effective? For example, one of the most effective treatment approaches for anxiety is the cognitive-behavioral technique. CBT helps identify negative thoughts patterns that contribute to your anxiety and depression and replaces them with positive and “realistic” thoughts.
3. Get the one you really want
In the end, all that matters is what type of workbook or journal you prefer and what suits you. Do you love one with lots of colors or designs? Or one that has writing space appeals to you more? Or maybe it’s a journal with prompts that encourage you to reflect each day? Whichever it may be, decide on what you want and go for it.
If you think you’d be too busy to journal, you can go for something that allows you to write a couple of sentences. Or something that has guided meditations or gratitude prompts to help you track the positive impacts that happen in your day.
Checklist for buying an anxiety journal or workbook
- Clear guidelines and structure
- Contain guided prompts and exercises
- Effective techniques
- Your style
Reading self-help books for your anxiety is awesome! Again, I could go on and on about the importance of reading and how much you stand to gain from it. But it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis or advice from your doctor or mental health professional. Talk to your health professional on how, together, you can create the best treatment plan for you.
Now that you’re done reading this blog, why not start reading one of the recommended books?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is anxiety?
Anxiety is your body’s normal reaction to stressful situations that can result in fear, racing heart, or heightened alertness. However, anxiety can become a problem when you have an intense and constant fear, worry, or nervousness. You may have an anxiety disorder if it persists and interferes with your daily functioning, and affects your ability to enjoy your life.
What are the symptoms of anxiety?
- Having an intense feeling of fear and nervousness
- Restlessness
- Having a sense of panic or doom
- Rapid breathing
- Increased heart rate
- Sleep difficulties
- Being unable to concentrate
- Excessive worrying
- Fatigue
- Digestive issues (constipation, diarrhea)
- Panic attacks, a sign of panic disorder
- Obsessing over certain things and repeatedly performing a behavior is a sign of obsessive-compulsive disorder.
- Experiencing fear in social events and avoiding social interactions, a sign of social anxiety disorder.
What causes anxiety disorders?
Researchers believe anxiety disorders are complex and result from a combination of factors, including:
- Stressful events (death of a loved one, conflict/war, child abuse)
- Genetics (Family history)
- Brain chemistry
- Drug abuse
- Certain health problems (heart and thyroid issues)
- Personality (Shyness)
There are also a couple of factors that could put you at risk of developing an anxiety disorder, including trauma, having another mental health issue like depression, childhood abuse, constant worry over your health or that of others, etc.
What are the common types of anxiety disorders?
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
- Separation anxiety disorder
- Phobias
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Agoraphobia
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
What is the best book for anxiety and stress?
There are many great books out there to help people with anxiety and stress. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Rewire My Anxious Brain
- The Body Keeps the Score
- Essentialism
- Getting Past Your Past
- Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway.
- Hope and Help for Your Nerves
- A Life at Last
- Fear: Essential Wisdom for Getting Through the Storm
- The Anti-Anxiety Diet
- The Anti-Anxiety Food Solution
- Gut and Psychology Syndrome
What are the best anxiety workbooks?
- Getting to Good
- Judgment Detox Journal
- Codependent No More Workbook
- Boundaries Workbook
Does reading help anxiety and depression?
Reading has been shown to help reduce stress and help you relax. It also lowers your racing heart and eases muscle tension, all of which are associated with anxiety.
Reading helps your brain focus on one task and actively engages your mind and imagination, thus distracting you from what you’ve been worrying about. Reading can also increase your self-awareness and make you feel more compassionate towards others and yourself. Overall, reading helps your emotional and mental health.
Note that reading will not treat your anxiety, it can only help you cope well and educate yourself about treatment possibilities or anecdotal evidence. It should not be a replacement for your doctor’s or mental health professional’s treatment and advice.
Can self-help books help with anxiety?
Reading self-help books for anxiety is actually a thing – it is an approach called bibliotherapy. It can help with anxiety and depression. Many mental health professionals are integrating reading as part of the treatment process for patients with anxiety and depression. A self-help book can equip you with skills and techniques that help you move through difficult situations and feelings and encourage you to transform your life and live the life of your dreams.
What do I look out for when buying a self-help book for anxiety?
- Writer’s credentials
- Narrow or focused scope with targeted advice
- Evidence-based
- Specific to your issues
- Effective techniques
- Easy to understand
- Length fits into your current schedule
- Trustworthy
- Resonates with you
- Reviews
- Format
What do I look out for when buying an anxiety journal or workbook?
- Clear guidelines
- Provide prompts and exercises
- Scientifically-backed techniques
- Suits your writing style
How do I use an anxiety journal or workbook?
There is no right or wrong way to use a workbook or journal. Well, except if you’re not using it at all. It’s all based on your preference: Would you like to write long notes and express all your emotions, thoughts, and experiences? Then do it. Or would you prefer bullet points? Whatever the case may be, make sure you write in the way that you’re most comfortable with.
What should I write in my anxiety workbook?
Most, if not all, workbooks contain guided prompts, writing exercises, or techniques that will direct you. The main purpose of an anxiety journal or workbook is to help you realize thoughts and situations that may be contributing to your anxiety and empower you to replace those fearful and negative thoughts with healthy and rational ones using exercises, prompts, techniques, and tools that help you stay present, set boundaries, and take control of your life.
Enjoy your reading, and leave me a comment letting me know what self help book you'd like to add to the list!
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Michelle Holmes is a Performance Consultant who supports teams and individuals to increase their performance, resiliency, and creativity so that the individual AND the organization can FLOURISH. She provides workplace wellness workshops + corporate consulting, speaking engagements, and personal coaching.