Dealing with anxiety can often be overwhelming, making it difficult for individuals to live freely in their everyday lives. Thus, it is crucial to explore resources that help in understanding and managing anxiety. Apart from therapy and medication, books can be an effective way for individuals to discover tools and learn new ways to cope with anxiety. In this article, we’ll explore a few books that help readers understand anxiety and also provide them with tools to manage it.
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Unwinding Anxiety
Link:https://www.amazon.in/gp/product/1785043633/ref=ewc_pr_img_5?smid=A1WYWER0W24N8S&psc=1
Dr. Judson Brewer is a psychiatrist and a neuroscientist. In his book ‘Unwinding Anxiety’,’ he combines 20 years of his experience and explores the root cause of anxiety with the help of neuroscience He also introduces the concept of the habit loop—trigger, behaviour, reward—as a crucial part of understanding and breaking the cycle of anxiety. He encourages the readers to find triggers for their anxiety and then goes on to provide solution-oriented strategies based on curiosity, mindfulness and other evidence-based techniques.
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The Worry Trick
Link: https://www.amazon.in/Worry-Trick-Brain-Tricks-Expecting/dp/1626253188#customerReviews
In ‘The Worry Trick’, the author explores the reasons behind chronic worry, a common feature of anxiety. He also explores how our minds ‘trick’ us into believing that constant worry is necessary for problem-solving and productivity. The book emphasises the importance of accepting uncertainty, challenging irrational thoughts, and cultivating a balanced perspective while providing practical strategies to overcome anxiety grounded in well-researched approaches such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). The easy-to-understand language also makes this book an interesting read.
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Cognitive Behaviour Therapy Made Simple
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy is one of the most common and well-researched approaches to dealing with anxiety. In this book, clinical psychologist Seth Gillihan starts by introducing readers to the foundations of CBT, emphasizing the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. He then proceeds to provide actionable steps and exercises so that readers can apply the principles of CBT to deal with anxiety in their lives. The book also offers clear instructions and real-life examples, which makes it relatable and easy to understand. If you are someone looking for actionable steps to overcome anxiety, this book might be a good fit. However, this book might not provide value to those who are already familiar with CBT.
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Don’t Feed The Monkey Mind
Link: https://www.amazon.in/DONT-FEED-MONKEY-Jennifer-Shannon/dp/1626255067/ref=sr_1_1?
In this book, the author, Jennifer Shannon, uses the metaphor of ‘the monkey mind’ to explain the anxious thoughts that often dominate our minds. The author also explains that certain actions or behaviours feed the cycle of anxiety and how we can overcome anxiety by identifying these behaviours and taking steps to control them. She also provides techniques from mindfulness and cognitive therapy to help readers overcome anxiety. The use of humorous language makes this book an entertaining read.
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When Panic Attacks
Dr. David Burns is a psychiatrist who firmly believes that anxiety can be treated without medications. In this book, he combines his extensive clinical experience with the principles of CBT to offer readers a comprehensive guide to understanding and addressing their panic symptoms. The book also educates readers about the nature of panic attacks while also breaking some common myths related to anxiety. It also explains the role of distorted thinking in anxiety and helps readers recognize and confront their anxious thoughts.
Conclusion:
The above-mentioned books aim to offer readers an in-depth understanding of anxiety while also providing them with practical tools and techniques to overcome it. While taking steps to overcome anxiety through self-help books can be empowering, sometimes anxiety might require further treatment. Consider consulting a trained mental health professional in case anxiety is causing an overwhelming disturbance in your everyday life.
References:
- The 10 Best Books to Help You Take Control of Your Anxiety. (n.d.). Verywell Health. Retrieved January 3, 2024, from https://www.verywellhealth.com/best-books-for-anxiety-7373428
- The Best 13 Books About Anxiety. (2017, July 11). Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/anxiety/best-anxiety-books
- What are some of the best books about anxiety? (2021, September 28). https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/anxiety-books
