Books About Depression

If you are looking for books about depression, either to read yourself or to recommend to a friend, here is a list of some great titles. These books offer insights into what it's like to live with depression, how to manage it, and how to support someone who is dealing with it.

They also provide information on the latest research and treatments for depression.

Whether you are just starting out on your journey with depression or have been living with it for years, these books can offer hope and guidance.

Books about Depression

1. Feeling Great: The Revolutionary New Treatment for Depression and Anxiety

Feeling Great

Written by: David Burns

Published: 2020

Pages: 499

Depression is a debilitating condition that can make everyday tasks seem impossible. But what if there was a new treatment that could help you feel better quickly and safely? Recent studies have shown that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an effective option for those struggling with depression. Even better than just CBT, this revolutionary approach uses Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy to help you overcome negative thought patterns and regain your sense of joy in life.

Written by one of the premier psychiatrists in the USA, David Burns has over 40 years of experience helping thousands and thousands of clients. If you are looking for an alternative to medication or traditional therapy, consider giving Feeling Great a try. You may be surprised at how much it can improve your quality of life.


2. Lost Connections: Uncovering the Real Causes of Depression - and the Unexpected Solutions

Lost Connections

Written by: Johann Hari

Published: 2018

Pages: 322

Depression is one of the most common mental health disorders in the United States, with an estimated one in six adults experiencing it each year. While there are many possible causes of depression, researchers have traditionally focused on biology and psychology as the root causes. However, journalist Johann Hari has another theory: that depression is often caused by disconnection from other people, the environment, and our sense of purpose in life.

In his book Lost Connections: Uncovering the Real Causes of Depression and the Unexpected Solutions, Hari explores this idea further and offers ways to address these underlying causes. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, this book may provide some valuable insights.


3. The Noonday Demon: An Atlas of Depression

The Noonday Demon

Written by: Andrew Solomon

Published: 2001

Pages: 576

Depression is a mental illness that affects millions of people worldwide, no matter their economic status, gender, or culture. It can be challenging to live with and even more difficult to understand. In his book, The Noonday Demon: An Atlas of Depression, author Andrew Solomon attempts to shine a light on this often-misunderstood condition.

Drawing on his own experiences with depression and research and interviews with fellow sufferers, doctors, psychiatrists, and others, Solomon provides an in-depth look at all aspects of depression. This book is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about depression, its causes and treatments, and how to best support loved ones suffering from it.


4. The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health: Navigate an Unequal System, Learn Tools for Emotional Wellness, and Get the Help you Deserve

The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health

Written by: Rheeda Walker PhD

Published: 2020

Pages: 232

It's no secret that Black people experience a disproportionate amount of mental health disparities in the United States. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), African Americans are 20 percent more likely to experience serious mental health problems than the general population. Despite this, there remains a significant lack of dialogue around the issue in and about mental health in the black community. In this groundbreaking book, author and mental health advocate Rheeda Walker seek to change that.

Drawing on her personal experiences and those of others, Walker provides a much-needed platform for a frank discussion about the unique challenges faced by black Americans when it comes to mental health. With candid writing and hard-hitting insights, Walker offers readers a powerful look at the often-taboo topic of black mental health—and lays out a roadmap for healing that is original and very compelling.


5. Solutions and Other Problems

Solutions and Other Problems

Written by: Allie Brosh

Published: 2020

Pages: 519

When it comes to books, one size does not fit all. While there are several different genres to choose from, no two books are exactly alike. This is undoubtedly the case with this book as it relates stories from Bosch’s life. Instead of just run-of-the-mill self-help, readers will find that most of the text is devoted to exploring various problems in an engaging and often humorous manner.

There are over 1,600 illustrations that go along with the stories, and they are remarkable and poignant. Therefore, this graphic novel can be best described as a collection of essays that deal with life's challenges. Whether you're looking for advice or simply need a good laugh, this book is sure to provide both.


6. Undercurrents: A Therapist's Reckoning with Her Own Depression

Undercurrents

Written by: Martha Manning

Published: 1995

Pages: 224

Admitting that you are struggling with a mental health disorder can be difficult for anyone. But when you are a therapist, it can feel like you are letting your clients down and not living up to their expectations. In this compelling book, Martha Manning offers an honest look at her own struggles with depression and how they have affected her work as a therapist.

With bravery and vulnerability, she shares the story of her journey from diagnosis to her treatment, which included horrible electroshock treatments, and finally, her recovery. Using her skills as a therapist and as a patient, she offers hope and insight to others who may be suffering. This powerful book will inspire hope in anyone affected by depression.


7. How to Change Your Mind: What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression, and Transcendence

How to Change Your Mind

Written by: Michael Pollan

Published: 2018

Pages: 480

Michael Pollan takes a deep dive into the world of psychedelics, exploring their potential benefits for mental health and addiction treatment. Through personal stories and scientific research, he makes a compelling case for the therapeutic use of psychedelics.

 Pollan's well-researched and thoughtful book provides a much-needed look at this misunderstood topic.

Psychedelics may not be suitable for everyone, but they hold tremendous promise for those struggling with addiction or mental health issues. As we better understand how these substances work, we can begin to unlock their healing potential. If you're curious about psychedelics, even if you aren’t dealing with any type of mental health issue, this is an excellent place to start.


8. Conquering Depression and Anxiety Through Exercise

Conquering Depression and Anxiety Through Exercise

Written by: Keith Johnsgard

Published: 2004

Pages: 305

Depression and anxiety can be debilitating conditions that make everyday life seem impossible. However, studies have shown that exercise can effectively treat depression and anxiety. Exercise releases endorphins, which improve mood and help to fight against negative thoughts. In addition, exercise can help to reduce stress levels and enhance the quality of sleep.

Written when Johnsgard was in his 70s and still running constantly, he believes that exercise can be just as valuable as any other type of therapy. Therefore, he suggests you should consider adding exercise to your treatment plan. There are many different types of activities that you can try, so find something that you enjoy and stick with it. Amazingly, many people see a difference in your mood and outlook on life within just a few weeks.


9. Shoot the Damn Dog: A Memoir of Depression

Shoot the Damn Dog

Written by: Sally Brampton

Published: 2008

Pages: 336

Shoot the Damn Dog is a memoir of depression that candidly discusses one woman's battle with the illness. It is written by Sally Brampton, the founding editor of ELLE magazine in Britain. The book recounts Brampton's experiences with therapy, medication, and her suicidal thoughts.

This book will help to break down the stigma attached to mental illness. She also provides insight into how depression affects relationships with friends, family members, and partners. This is an honest and raw portrayal of depression, which she calls “The elephant in the room” since so many people have it but hide it. If you have ever felt depressed or know someone that has, Bramptons’ story will touch you.


10. Retrain Your Brain: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in 7 Weeks: A Workbook for Managing Depression and Anxiety

Retrain Your Brain

Written by: Seth J. Gillihan

Published: 2016

Pages: 236

Cognitive-behavioral therapy, or CBT, is a form of talk therapy that effectively treats a variety of mental health issues. CBT can help you understand and change your thoughts and behaviors that may be contributing to your problems. In Retrain Your Brain: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy 7 Weeks, Dr. Seth Gillihan provides a step-by-step guide to CBT that will help you get the most out of this practical treatment approach.

The beauty of this book is that you will have a perfectly laid out workbook with many exercises and examples to help you figure out what is the right step for you. This workbook focuses on depression and will help people dealing with anxiety, OCD, or another mental health issue; CBT may be the proper intervention for you. This is a great book to check out since it has been clinically proven to help people achieve better mental health!


11. The Wisdom of Insecurity

Wisdom of Insecurity

Written by: Alan Watts

Published: 1968 (1951)

Pages: 152

Insecurity and depression can be tricky when you are stuck in them. We all feel it at times, but wisdom often comes from learning to work with and through our insecurities. In his book, The Wisdom of Insecurity, Alan Watts offers a unique perspective on insecurity's role in our lives. Instead of just focusing on what we own or have, we can learn to be more secure with just us in the present time.

According to Watts, insecurity can be a powerful tool for growth when we learn to use it in the right way. He argues that rather than trying to escape our insecurity, we should embrace it as a natural part of the human experience. If you're struggling with feelings of insecurity, this book may offer some valuable insights.


12. Reasons to Stay Alive

Reasons to Stay Alive

Written by: Matt Haig

Published: 2015

Pages: 266

When you're feeling down, it can be hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. But what if that light is a train coming straight for you? In this book, Matt Haig explores the reasons why it's worth staying alive, even when life is tough. Despite being written from a personal perspective, Haig's book offers universal truths that are relevant to everyone.

Haig's book provides encouragement and hope, whether you're struggling with depression or just experiencing a difficult time. He writes about seeing your life second by second instead of long-term, which can seem overwhelming. So, if you're feeling like giving up, read this book, and it may just keep you alive.


13. Feeling Good Together: The Secret to Making Troubled Relationships Work

Feeling Good Together

Written by: David Burns

Published: 2008

Pages: 288

It's no secret that relationships take work. However, many people believe that if a relationship is troubled, it's not worth saving. One of the only writers mentioned twice in this list, Dr. David Burns, challenges this way of thinking and offers readers a roadmap to restoring harmony in their relationships.

Drawing on over thirty years of experience as a psychiatrist, Burns provides clear and concise advice for addressing the most common problems couples face. Whether you're struggling with communication issues, fighting constantly, or feeling disconnected, this book can help you get your relationship back on track.


14. Depression Hates a Moving Target: How Running With My Dog Brought Me Back From the Brink

Depression Hates a Moving Target

Written by: Nita Sweeney

Published: 2020

Pages: 258

In How Running With My Dog Brought Me Back From the Brink by Nita Sweeney, the author recounts how running with her dog turned her life around. After hitting rock bottom, Sweeney found herself on a path to recovery guided by fresh air, endorphins, and the companionship of her loyal pup, Morgan.

Whether you're an avid runner or just getting started, there's something to be learned from this heartwarming story about the transformative power of exercise and friendship. When Sweeney began running, she could barely go for 60 seconds…but because she worked with her doggie to support her, she's now running marathons. So, what are you waiting for? Get moving!


15. You Can Heal Your Life

You Can Heal Your Life

Written by: Louise L. Hay

Published: 2008 (1984)

Pages: 253

Are you tired of feeling unhappy, unfulfilled, and stuck? If so, you're not alone. According to bestselling author Louise L. Hay, we all have the power to heal our lives - no matter what's going on. In this groundbreaking book, Hay outlines a powerful self-healing program that can help you overcome any obstacle or challenge in your life.

According to Hay, we can heal ourselves by changing our thinking and attitude. Using affirmations, visualization, and other simple techniques, Hay shows how you can change your thoughts and emotions for the better. She provides case studies and examples of how people have cured themselves using her techniques in her book.


16. Body Full of Stars: Female Rage and My Passage into Motherhood

Body Full of Stars

Written by: Molly Caro May

Published: 2018

Pages: 272

Female rage is often dismissed and misunderstood. As a result, it can be difficult for women to express their anger healthily. This is particularly true for mothers, who are expected to be always nurturing and supportive, which is incredibly difficult when they are hit by post-partum depression.

This book explores the history, meaning, and potential of female rage. She also shares her own journey into motherhood, which was marked by anger and frustration. Because of this, she learned that anger could be a powerful motivator - leading to deeper levels of self-awareness and personal growth. If you're curious about female rage or struggling with your own


17. The Depression Cure: The 6-Step Program to Beat Depression without Drugs

The Depression Cure

Written by: Stephen S. Ilardi, Ph.D.

Published: 2009

Pages: 304

Depression is a widespread problem that many people struggle with every day. While antidepressants can be helpful for some, they often come with undesirable side effects. Instead of just using medications and therapy, Dr. Stephen Ilardi outlines a plan to help you overcome your depression with many modalities.

His program is based on extensive research and draws on cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness meditation, and exercise elements. If you're looking for an alternative to antidepressants, this book is worth checking out.


18. Accessing the Healing Power of the Vagus Nerve: Self-Help Exercises for Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, and Autism

Accessing the Healing Power of the Vagus Nerve

Written by: Stanley Rosenberg

Published: 2016

Pages: 224

The vagus nerve is a powerhouse of healing potential, and new research shows that we can access this power by deliberately stimulating the nerve. This cutting-edge science offers us a whole new way to look at health and healing and points to the possibility of true transformation. Stanley Rosenberg provides an in-depth exploration of the latest findings on the vagus nerve and how to use it for our own healing.

Drawing on scientific research and personal experience, Rosenberg offers a wealth of information on this little-known but immensely powerful nerve. If you're interested in exploring the healing possibilities of the vagus nerve, this book is worth reading!


19. Your Voice in My Head

Your Voice in My Head

Written by: Emma Forrest

Published: 2011

Pages: 224

We all have voices in our heads. The ones that tell us who we should be, what we should do, and how we should look. They are the ones that make us doubt ourselves, question our decisions, and paralyze us with fear. For most of us, these voices are overpowering and unrelenting. Forrest decided that she needed help and found a therapist who would do that.

However, she discovers that her therapist has died from a heart attack and decides to help herself. Forrest's story is one of courage and resilience in the face of impossible odds. She shows us that it is possible to overcome even the darkest moments and find victory in simply surviving another day. Her story is impressive and powerful.


20. Learned Optimism: How to Change Your Mind and Your Life

Learned Optimism

Written by: Martin E. P. Seligman

Published: 2006 (First written in 1990)

Pages: 319

Are you happy with your life? If not, what's stopping you from making the changes necessary to achieve the level of happiness you desire? Martin Seligman offers a three-step plan for achieving satisfaction and becoming a more positive person.

According to Seligman, most people think that circumstances outside their control determine their happiness. However, Seligman's research has shown that pessimists are more likely to become depressed, while optimists are more likely to be successful and happy. It is one of the older books on this list but still worth reading as it is just as influential today.


21. Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience

Flow

Written by: Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

Published: 1990

Pages: 303

Do you ever feel so lost in what you're doing that time just seems to fly by? Or have you ever been so engaged in a task that you lose all sense of time and place? If so, then you've experienced flow, a term coined by psychologist Martin Csikszentmihalyi. Initially published in 1990, it has since been updated. He explores the concept of flow and its role in optimal human experience.

According to Csikszentmihalyi, flow is characterized by complete involvement in an activity, with a loss of self-consciousness and a sense of ecstasy or happiness. For many people, achieving flow is the key to happiness and success.


22. Hello I Want to Die Please Fix Me: Depression in the First Person

Hello I Want to Die Please Fix Me

Written by: Anna Mehler Paperny

Published: 2019

Pages: 352

In this book, Paperny reports on her personal experience with depression and anxiety, as well as insights gleaned from conversations with mental health professionals. The book is a frank and insightful exploration of one woman's descent into mental illness, suicide attempts, being stuck in a failed mental health system, and so much more. All the while trying to find a way to contentment and happiness.

This book is an essential contribution to the public dialogue about depression and mental illness. Anyone who has experienced depression or knows someone who has will find much to appreciate in Paperny's frank writing. Because Paperny is Canadian and writes about it, this book gives a different view than the standard U.S. version of the mental health system.


23. The Pursuit of Perfect: How to Stop Chasing Perfection and Start Living a Richer, Happier Life

The Pursuit of Perfect

Written by: Tal Ben-Shahar

Published: 2009

Pages: 246

There's no question that we live in a perfection-obsessed society. We're constantly inundated with images of impossibly perfect people and perfect lives, and it's easy to start believing that if we just had the ideal body, the perfect job, and a beautiful house, then we'd finally be happy. But chasing perfection is a fool's errand.

As a psychologist, Harvard professor, and author Tal Ben-Shahar explains in his book, striving for perfection actually has the opposite effect: anxiety, dissatisfaction, and unhappiness. Instead, he suggests meditation, self-reflection, and looking at how you blame yourself for “failures” that are just learning experiences in life.


24. Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear

Big Magic

Written by: Elizabeth Gilbert

Published: 2015

Pages: 288

Are you living a creative life, or are you living in fear? In her latest book, author Elizabeth Gilbert offers a guide to overcoming fear and unlocking your creative potential. The beauty of this book is that, unlike many, it is spiritual and evidence-based. If you're feeling stuck creatively or if fear keeps you from pursuing your dreams, this will help you break free of those bonds.

Drawing on her own experiences as a writer and artist, Gilbert provides inspiration and advice for cultivating a creative lifestyle based on joy and curiosity rather than perfectionism and self-doubt. If you're ready to let go of your fears and start creating the life you want to live, this will be an excellent book for you.


25. Declutter Your Mind: How to Stop Worrying, Relieve Anxiety, and Eliminate Negative Thinking

Declutter Your Mind

Written by: S. J. Scott

Published: 2016

Pages: 156

Worrying and anxiety can take a toll on your mental wellbeing, resulting in negative thoughts and feelings. If you're looking for ways to declutter your mind and relieve some of that stress, this books provides many helpful tips.

Scott talks about how you can start by identifying the things that cause you worry or make you anxious, and then work on developing strategies to deal with them.

Mindfulness meditation and positive self-talk are also great ways to keep your mind clear and focused. With a little practice, you'll be able to declutter your mind and enjoy a more peaceful state of mind.


26. The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment

The Power of Now

Written by: Eckhart Tolle

Published: 1997

Pages: 193

Everyone has moments in their life when they feel entirely at peace and in harmony with the world. For some, these moments are fleeting, while others find a way to maintain this sense of peace throughout their lives. If you're looking for a way to achieve spiritual enlightenment, you will definitely enjoy this book. And, even if you aren’t spiritual, Tolle’s words will resonate with you as they help you look at self-realization.

In this book, Tolle discusses the power of living in the present moment and how to connect with your inner self. If you're ready to start living a more fulfilling life, this book is a great place to start. Tolle is also famous for his TED Talks, so you can see him there if you are interested in learning more about him and his style.


27. Toxic Parents: Overcoming Their Hurtful Legacy and Reclaiming Your Life

Toxic Parents

Written by: Susan Forward and Craig Buck

Published: 2002

Pages: 308

If you're like most people, your relationship with your parents is one of the most important in your life. But what if your parents were toxic? What if they were emotionally or even physically abusive? How do you overcome their hurtful legacy and reclaim your life? In this book, Dr. Forward offers guidance and support to those who are seeking to heal the wounds inflicted by their toxic parents.

Drawing on her own experience and case studies from her practice, she provides concrete steps that readers can take to break free from the chains of toxicity and finally start living their lives on their terms. It is a great book, so you can heal yourself, parent yourself, and be a better parent to your children at the same time.


28. How to Do the Work: Recognize Your Patterns, Heal from Your Past, and Create Your Self

How to Do the Work

Written by: Nicole LePera

Published: 2021

Pages: 320

Recognizing your patterns and understanding how they developed can be a decisive step in healing your past. Nicole LePera offers guidance on how to do just that. Drawing from her own experience and the work of therapists and other professionals, LePera provides readers with an overview of the most common psychological patterns. She explains how these patterns develop and their effects on our lives.

And instead of just using therapy or medicine, she examines how depression is a total body experience that needs to be corrected. Because of that, she began part of the holistic therapy movement. Ultimately, she provides tools for readers to begin healing their pasts and creating new, healthier lives for themselves.


29. The Power of Vulnerability: Teachings of Authenticity, Connections and Courage

The Power of Vulnerability

Written by: Brené Brown

Published: 2013

Pages: 240

Do you ever feel like you're not good enough? That you have to put on a persona or face in order to be accepted by others? If so, you're not alone. According to Brené Brown, many of us struggle with feelings of inadequacy and insecurity. But what if we could learn to embrace our vulnerability instead? Instead of limiting us, maybe try to make us more welcoming to ourselves and others by allowing it?

Brown discusses the power of vulnerability and offers teachings on living more authentically. Her message is both inspiring and empowering, and it can help us all learn to step outside our comfort zones and embrace who we are. Brené Brown also has numerous presentations on TED Talks worth watching.


30. The Mindful Way through Depression: Freeing Yourself from Chronic Unhappiness

The Mindful Way through Depression

Written by: J. Mark G. Williams, John D. Teasdale and Zindel V. Segal

Published: 2007

Pages: 273

If you're feeling down, there's a good chance that you've been told to " snap out of it." While that might work for some people, it can be challenging to just will yourself to be happy. If you find that traditional methods of coping with depression aren't working for you, it might be worth considering trying something new: mindfulness.

Mindfulness is a type of meditation that helps you focus on the present moment rather than letting your thoughts wander. And while mindfulness may seem like an odd treatment for depression, research shows that it can be incredibly effective. In this book, numerous writers offer a step-by-step guide to mindfulness to overcome chronic unhappiness and regain control of your life. If you’ve never tried meditation before, this is a fantastic guidebook.


31. Max the Miracle Dog: The Heart-Warming Tale of a Life-Saving Friendship

Max the Miracle Dog

Written by: Kerry Irving

Published: 2020

Pages: 288

If you're looking for a heartwarming tale of life-saving heroism, look no further than Max the Miracle Dog. After living through a brutal childhood, Irving was rear-ended and barely survived. Being stuck at home, sitting on a couch instead of riding the over 500 miles a week he used to, depression set in. Instead of just giving in entirely, his wife suggested he go for a walk.

It is a book about getting out of depression and into love between a man and a dog that will bring tears to your eyes. As he walked to the store, he noticed the cutest dog named Max. As they became closer and closer, through the days when Irving would get out, Max helped save his life. And in reality, Irving helped save Max's life also.


32. Hardcore Self Help: F**k Depression

Hardcore Self Help: F**k Depression

Written by: Robert Duff

Published: 2016

Pages: 150

As you can guess, Duff doesn’t mess around or mince words when dealing with depression or how to deal with it. Though the title, while attention-grabbing, is also a little jarring. As it turns out, the book is both an engaging and informative read on the topic of depression. Duff breaks down the different types of depression in clear, concise language and offers helpful tips for managing depressive episodes.

Drawing on his personal experience with depression and research and interviews with experts, Duff offers a comprehensive guide to understanding and managing depression. In this book, he decides to advise that anyone could use and with a sense of humor. Being that he gets down to the basics, the worksheets and help you want are easy to access and use, and you can start your journey towards happiness right away.


33. Depression & Other Magic Tricks

Depression and Other Magic Tricks

Written by: Sabrina Benaim

Published: 2017

Pages: 75

This book is unlike any others on the list as it is primarily written as poems. The author tells her story of depression with openness, honesty, and an impressive amount of humor. She shares how she first discovered her depression was a trickster- one that would deceive her into believing that she was happy when in reality, she was anything but that.

Benaim's poetry is powerful and offers readers a glimpse into the thoughts and emotions of someone living with depression. Her poetry also provides hope that things can get better. If you are struggling with depression or know someone, this book is worth reading. It may not offer a magical cure for depression, but it will help to remind you that you are not alone.


34. Stumbling on Happiness

Stumbling on Happiness

Written by: Daniel Todd Gilbert

Published: 2007

Pages: 263

Have you ever wondered what it takes to be truly happy? In his book, Stumbling on Happiness, Daniel Gilbert takes a scientific look at the topic. Gilbert's main point is that we often stumble onto happiness in ways we never expected. For example, he cites research showing that people are happier when they are engaged in their work than when they are taking leisure time.

The idea that we misperceive how much enjoyment things will bring us in the future often makes us depressed or unhappy is incredibly useful to temper our expectations and enjoy the moment. This might seem counterintuitive, but it makes sense when you think about it. When we are working, we are focused and absorbed in what we are doing. We aren't worrying about things like bills or our stressful relationships. Instead, we are in the moment, and that can lead to a sense of happiness and contentment.


35. Dopamine Nation

Dopamine Nation

Written by: Anna Lembke

Published: 2021

Pages: 291

We all know what it's like to be in the grips of dopamine. If you don’t know the name, it is a neurotransmitter that brings pleasure and happiness to your brain. It's that heady mix of excitement, fun, and anticipation that floods our brains when we do something we enjoy. Dopamine can become a powerful addiction for some people, leading to an out-of-control lifestyle characterized by over-indulgence and lack of self-control.

If this sounds like you, don't worry – there is hope. Anna Lembke offers strategies for reclaiming control and finding balance in your life. Drawing on years of personal experience and neuroscience research, Lembke provides tips for recognizing your dopamine triggers, setting boundaries, and creating a masterful book on handling it and staying in balance.


36. Night Falls Fast: Understanding Suicide

Night Falls Fast

Written by: Kay Redfield Jamison

Published: 1999

Pages: 448

It's a difficult task to talk about suicide. The very nature of the act makes it shrouded in shame and secrecy. And yet, as Kay Redfield Jamison points out in this book, suicide is surprisingly common. In any given year, almost 1,000,000 people worldwide take their own lives. Jamison knows this firsthand, as she has attempted suicide on multiple occasions.

In Night Falls Fast, Jamison takes a comprehensive look at suicide and its causes. She explores everything from the role of mental illness to the impact of stress and trauma. By understanding these factors, Jamison hopes we can begin to break down the stigma surrounding suicide and save lives, whether someone else's or our own.


37. The Upward Spiral: Using Neuroscience to Reverse the Course of Depression, One Small Change at a Time

The Upward Spiral

Written by: Alex Korb

Published: 2015

Pages: 240

You probably didn't just wake up one day feeling depressed and possibly suicidal. It took time, events, and built up little by little. Thankfully, new research suggests that there may be ways to reverse its course using neuroscience. Since it took time to get depressed, it may also take some time to get out of it. And that requires little by little steps that you can focus on and take pride in achieving.

Alex Korb outlines strategies to help people suffering from depression return to a more positive state of mind. Drawing on scientific evidence and case studies, Korb provides readers with an understanding of how the brain works during periods of depression and offers practical advice for overcoming it. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, this book will give anyone the small steps to get back to happiness and stay there.


38. The Antidote: Happiness for People Who Can't Stand Positive Thinking

The Antidote

Written by: Oliver Burkeman

Published: 2012

Pages: 236

It's no secret that a positive attitude is linked with success and happiness, but what if you're one of the people who can't stand positive thinking? Is it possible to be successful and happy without being positive all the time? According to Burkeman, the answer is yes. This book shows how it's possible to achieve happiness despite negative thoughts and emotions.

Some of these include the opposite of therapy or the positive life coaching that is usually prescribed. Instead is about ones that don't coddle or make every success magical. They tend to make them painful, so you get angry and grow stronger. He also freely attacks the gurus who think that mindfulness with cure everything. This may sound counterintuitive, and it is, which is why you will probably love it. Or hate it..which is just fine also!


39. Undoing Depression: What Therapy Doesn't Teach You and Medication Can't Give You

Undoing Depression

Written by: Richard O’Connor

Published: 2010 (1997)

Pages: 368

Therapy can be a great way to learn new coping mechanisms and skills to deal with your mental health. However, therapy doesn't always teach you everything you need to know. Medication can also be a great way to help manage your mental health, but it doesn't give you all the necessary tools. Instead of just using those strategies, O’Connor discusses the many things that therapy and medication don't cover.

She provides helpful information and strategies for managing your mental health, such as exercise, eating better, and how our environment and genetics play a large part in depression and how to get out of it. If you're looking for more resources and tools to manage your mental health, this book is worth a read. Newly revised and updated, this book continues to enthrall and help millions of readers.


40. Unbreakable: How I Turned My Depression and Anxiety into Motivation and You Can Too

Unbreakable

Written by: Jay Glazer

Published: 2022

Pages: 240

If you are a fan of MMA or pro football, you probably already know Jay Glazer's name since he is on tv. However, even if you aren't, you will still find his story inspiring and unforgettable. Looking at him from the outside, he seemed like a guy that had everything and was positive no matter what life threw at him. But that was the problem, and it was only on the outside.

Realizing that his life was meaningful and tired of "living in the grey," he decided to change and now shares his story with others. By giving of himself and helping others, he started to heal. He kept building on that and began to work on himself. We loved this autobiography because he doesn't pull any punches but still has a great sense of humor even in the darkest times. Once reading this, you'll never look at Jay Glazer again when you see him on tv.


41. Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain

Spark

Written by: John J. Ratey and Eric Hagerman

Published: 2008

Pages: 304

If you're looking for a comprehensive guide to the latest scientific understanding of how exercise affects the brain, look no further than Spark. In this groundbreaking new book, John Ratey offers an enlightening exploration of the incredible ways in which physical activity can boost cognitive function, improve the mental health of all types, and protect against age-related decline.

Whether you're a long-time fitness enthusiast or just starting to get interested in the topic, Spark is sure to provide plenty of insights that will change the way you think about exercise forever. So, hop off the couch, go outside, and start walking or running right now. You’ll feel better and more alive so quickly you won’t believe it!


42. Mind Over Mood: Change How You Feel by Changing the Way You Think

Mind Over Mood

Written by: Dennis Greenberger & Christine A. Padesky

Published: 2015 (1995)

Pages: 341

Dennis Greenberger, Ph.D., and Christine A. Padesky, MA, founded the Center for Cognitive Therapy in Newport Beach, California. In their more than thirty years of clinical experience, they have found that cognitive therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment for mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. Their book Mind Over Mood is a self-help guide to changing how you feel by changing your thoughts. The book has been translated into nineteen languages and has been reprinted thirteen times.

The goal of cognitive therapy is to help you identify and understand your "automatic thoughts" – the negative thoughts that pop into your head without any conscious input from you – and then to challenge and reframe them. This can help you break the negative thought cycle that often leads to depression and control the thoughts that lead you down to it.


43. Dog Medicine: How My Dog Saved Me from Myself

Dog Medicine

Written by: Julie Barton

Published: 2016

Pages: 256

When Julie Barton was 22 years old, she thought she was doing fine. That all changed in an instant when she fell to the floor, called her mom, and realized that she was horribly depressed. As childhood memories started to flood her mind and became worse, she slowly descended into suicidal thoughts.

As you'd expect, during this time, she tried therapy, medications, and anything else that could possibly save her; nothing worked. However, deciding to take her life into her own hands, she adopted a cute puppy named Bunker. Amazingly, because of the love they could share, she slowly started to climb out of her suicidal thoughts depression and found happiness in a way others wouldn't have even imagined. It is a lovely autobiography that will have you crying and smiling as she becomes herself again.


44. The Valedictorian of Being Dead: The True Story of Dying Ten Times to Live

The Valedictorian of Being Dead

Written by: Heather B. Armstrong

Published: 2019

Pages: 272

In what has to be one of the most incredible books about recovering from depression and suicide, The Valedictorian is almost beyond belief. Everything seemed okay with Armstrong until 2016, when a horrible depression hit her that nothing could cure. She basically gave up on everything and just wanted to die. However, she realized she needed to survive for the sake of her family.

However, unlike the other books in this list, she decided to enlist in an experimental clinical trial to alleviate those feelings and thoughts. How experimental? Armstrong would take propofol anesthesia ten times during the trial. Why was this experimental? Because the medication would cause her brainwaves to flatline for 15 minutes, which meant she was clinically dead. This happened ten times, and therefore the title, and she was entirely cured by the end of it. It is an incredible journey that you will never forget.


45. Yoga for Depression

Yoga for Depression

Written by: Amy Weintraub

Published: 2003

Pages: 285

Self-care is vital for anyone with a mood disorder, and yoga can be an immensely beneficial self-care tool. In Yoga for Depression, the author offers readers a comprehensive guide to using yoga to manage depressive symptoms. The book includes information on the different types of depression, yogic philosophy, and getting started with a yoga practice.

Weintraub provides personal stories from her own journey with depression and case studies of people who have found relief through yoga. This rich resource is perfect for anyone looking to start or deepen their yoga practice and find relief from depression and other mental illnesses beyond that.