Summaries of books about Mental Health & Wellness:
The DBT Deck for Clients and Therapists
101 Mindful Practices to Manage Distress, Regulate Emotions & Build Better Relationships
Lane Pederson
The book contains a collection of 101 cards, each featuring a distinct skill or activity based on Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) principles designed to help individuals manage stress, regulate emotions, and improve interpersonal relationships. It serves as a practical tool for therapists to use with clients, as well as for individuals seeking to practice mindfulness and emotional regulation techniques on their own.
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Essential Art Therapy Exercises
Effective Techniques to Manage Anxiety, Depression, and PTSD
Leah Guzman
The book provides a collection of therapeutic art activities designed to help individuals cope with mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD. It offers step-by-step instructions for engaging in creative exercises that aim to facilitate self-expression, emotional healing, and personal growth.
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Trauma and Recovery
The Aftermath of Violence--From Domestic Abuse to Political Terror
Judith Lewis Herman
The book examines the psychological impact of trauma on individuals, exploring the process of healing from personal and collective violence, including domestic abuse, sexual assault, and political terror. It outlines a framework for recovery, emphasizing the importance of recognizing trauma, establishing safety, and reconstructing the trauma story within a supportive environment.
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A Happier Hour
Rebecca Weller
The book chronicles the personal journey of a woman who confronts her problematic relationship with alcohol and embarks on a quest for sobriety and self-discovery. It explores the challenges and triumphs she experiences as she seeks to replace her nightly drinking habit with healthier routines and a more fulfilling life.
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My Lovely Wife in the Psych Ward
A Memoir
Mark Lukach
The memoir recounts a husband's journey as he navigates the complexities of mental illness after his wife's sudden psychotic break. It delves into the challenges of caregiving, the impact on their marriage, and the resilience of love amidst the trials of psychiatric emergencies and ongoing treatment.
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Alcohol Lied to Me
How to Stop Drinking and Get the Real You Back
Craig Beck
The book provides a personal account and practical guide for overcoming alcohol addiction, challenging common beliefs about alcohol and offering strategies to regain control. It includes techniques for breaking dependency, understanding the psychological aspects of drinking, and creating a fulfilling life without reliance on alcohol.
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The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health
Navigate an Unequal System, Learn Tools for Emotional Wellness, and Get the Help You Deserve
Rheeda Walker
The book provides an exploration of the unique challenges faced by African Americans in accessing mental health care, offering practical advice and strategies for overcoming systemic barriers and promoting emotional well-being. It includes culturally relevant psychological insights, self-care techniques, and guidance on seeking professional help tailored to the Black community's experience.
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Jog On
How Running Saved My Life
Bella Mackie
The book combines personal memoir with practical advice, detailing the author's journey of overcoming anxiety and depression through the transformative power of running. It explores the mental health benefits of the activity, offering inspiration and tips for readers to incorporate running into their own lives for better emotional well-being.
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This Is Your Brain on Food
An Indispensable Guide to the Surprising Foods that Fight Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and More
Uma Naidoo
The book explores the connection between diet and mental health, providing insights into how certain foods can affect conditions like depression, anxiety, and ADHD. It offers nutritional advice, backed by scientific research, to help readers improve their mental well-being through dietary choices.
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What Made Maddy Run
The Secret Struggles and Tragic Death of an All-American Teen
Kate Fagan
The book delves into the life of Madison Holleran, a promising young athlete at the University of Pennsylvania, who struggled with the pressures of academics, sports, and social media before tragically taking her own life. It explores the challenges faced by many young people today, examining mental health issues and the often hidden struggles behind seemingly perfect lives.
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