Mental illnesses have been around just as long as humans have. Thankfully, we are now living in a society that is beginning to understand the importance of discussing these issues and offering acceptance to the individuals in our lives who struggle with their mental well-being. Improved psychological health means an improved quality of life. Many therapists, psychologists, and mental health professionals have accepted the responsibility of continuing our mental health education with books that discuss everything from daily stresses to depression. Here, the best mental health books for improved well-being. Her take on the topic is not only founded in research, but her use of stories shared by patients also provides real-life examples for anyone experiencing depression in their own life. This book is a necessary guide for anyone who faces depression—whether their own or a loved one’s—in their life. Price at time of publication: $18 These stories, while in many cases hard to stomach, shed light on experiences of overmedication, electroconvulsive therapy, involuntary hospitalization, and other traumatic events that can forever alter someone’s life. Their discussion of the systemic problems within mental health care educates readers, empowers writers, and breaks stigmas. Price at time of publication: $18 Price at time of publication: $22 With down-to-earth discussions, Williams tackles emotional pain and how it uniquely affects the Black experience, encouraging women and men to seek the help they need without feeling ashamed. Having experienced depression first-hand after overworking herself as the head of a demanding public relations company, Williams knows what it takes to finally come to terms with your inner sorrow. She reminds us that we are brave, not cowardly, for facing our traumas head-on and finding solutions with the help of others. Price at time of publication: $19 With research to back her up, she lays out how to identify factors, find transformative emotional opportunities, and find ways to heal your mind from within. Dr. Brogan believes that when there is a prioritization of self-care, individuals will find themselves with clearer, sharper mental health. Price at time of publication: $27 In her witty, endearing story of self-discovery, she discusses the truths and lies we all tell ourselves, examining the harm they can cause when allowed to be out of control. “Maybe You Should Talk to Someone” will make you feel heard while encouraging you to open up and reach out to the people who are there to listen. Price at time of publication: $28 She provides a self-assessment model to help individuals identify what their depression is, and she offers 16 self-help tools that help them overcome it and find happiness. “Your Happiness Toolkit” is a guide for both those experiencing psychological issues and loved ones trying to help them along the way. Price at time of publication: $20 Price at time of publication: $16 Each section takes the main anxiety symptom an individual finds themself facing and provides an explanation for that symptom, techniques to control it, and a path to finding inner calm. It’s easy to read, understand, and apply to your life, no matter what situation you find yourself in. Price at time of publication: $19 Instead of viewing anxiety as a disorder to be ashamed of, Brass encourages readers to look at their anxiety as an intimate aspect of who they are—to be shaped, not hidden. He combines medical research and personal experiences to provide a resource that leads readers toward a healthier, happier life. Price at time of publication: $17
Expert Insights
Our recommendation is to prioritize mental health books that are either written by credentialed experts or lean heavily on insight or research from renowned figures in the field. Doing so provides you with a well-rounded, scientifically-backed reading experience versus a book of mostly opinion or personal experiences. Books with expert insight also often teach you effective methods to improve your mental health.
Sensitive and Empathetic
Feeling judged or unseen are the last things you want to deal with when reading a mental health book. Instead, you want to feel like the author understands, and is sensitive to, your thoughts and personal experiences. Even books that utilize humor to help you remember important ideas and insights should come across as kind and empathetic.
Why Trust Verywell Mind
As a previous fitness coach, long-time wellness enthusiast, and current health editor, Lily Moe understands the importance of prioritizing your mental health. She not only encourages those around her to speak out about their own mental health, but she walks the walk with open discussions, sharing of resources, and advocating for organizations that help us all to learn how to conquer obstacles placed before us. Most importantly, Lily always looks for research and first-hand reviews when it comes to deciding on a product. They can also teach you effective techniques to cope with and mitigate complex feelings such as stress, anxiety, anger, sadness, and grief. Finally, mental health books help you think about things in new ways, broaden your perspective, and improve your overall well-being. Research shows that positive mental health is linked with a higher quality of life, including improved productivity, a fulfilling social life, closer relationships, and higher educational achievements. In some cases, you may realize that you would benefit from speaking with a professional who can help you work through deeper issues or provide a diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. Another reality is that sometimes it can be difficult to finish a book. Choosing a mental health book that’s easy to read and keeps you engaged will help. You can also try creating a set schedule where you read a certain number of pages per day or week to stay on track. Speaking with others—such as friends, family, or a therapist—about what you’re reading can help cement the concepts and get you thinking even deeper about your mental health.
