Self-help Books
Books We RecomMend
By Yehudis Nechama S.
Although we’ve found these books to be helpful for us, please consult with your therapist before reading. We do not take responsibility for any possible negative effect of reading the books. Additionally, these books should not be considered as a substitute for therapy, just an additional resource.
The Fear Fix
By: Sara Chana Radcliffe
Although this book was written for parents to help their children with fears and anxiety, it has a wealth of information, more than any other book I’ve read! From understanding anxiety to breathing techniques to tapping this book has dozens of ideas to fight fears. If fact, I’ve found many of the ideas to be helpful with other strong emotions such as anger and depression. The book is full of relatable stories and examples. Although it was published and marketed for non-Jews as well as Jews, the author is frum and the book is very clean.
Write Your Way Home
By: Yocheved Rottenberg
This is a Torah-based guide to Journaling. It can be very helpful for processing trauma (again not instead of therapy, just in addition, if your therapist approves), anger, loss and a whole spectrum of emotions. Also, it can help you get to know yourself better. The book is also chock full of inspiration by Chaya Hinda Allen.
With my experience using it, I found that it worked best for me to do the exercises loosely. Once I figured that out, it helped me process various emotions and get to know different parts of myself. I look forward to Journaling. The book also inspired me to come up with some of my own journaling ideas.
Get Out of Your Mind and Into Your Life
By: Steven Hayes
This is my favorite self-help book! It teaches ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) which changed my life for the better. ACT revolves around following ideas: Pain is mandatory, Suffering is optional, Thought Diffusion: being able to look at thoughts without looking from the thought, thoughts can pass through our head and we can just let them be and not get caught up with them, Accept what you can’t change (including intrusive thoughts and feelings) and commit to living and life that you value.
The book has a few mentions of evolution but nothing else inappropriate. You can skip the beginning which you may find boring. The book is a literal treasure trove, but you have to be okay with a higher level of language and a slightly dry writing style. But this book can change your life!
Momentum
By: Mordechai Weinberger
This is a gem of a book, because anyone from an intellectual to someone who hates reading can gain. The chapters are short with cute cartoon type illustrations, but so deep and cover a wide range of topics. Scanning the book at any stage or moment you can find something that you’ll relate to and will propel you towards being your best self at that time.
Some chapters help motivate you, others teach how to set realistic goals. Some give advice on taking advice, others on trusting Hashem or Self-esteem.
Teen Power: Nine Secrets to Confidence and Success
By: Deborah Saunders
This book has great tips for deflecting comments of the immature people in your life and building your self- esteem. The examples are relatable. It’s an amazing book for teens or the teen at heart.
I enjoyed it and keep it in my closet to reread every so often.