In celebration of our new client library, we’re doing our year-end round up by selecting some books for you. We have books that complement our work with anxiety, depression, OCD, insomnia, relationship issues, and parenting. We think you’ll find something to read on our list!
If You’re Seeking Better Relationships:
Tsveta says, Wired for Love is an excellent primer on how to learn about your partner and the way you connect to them. Our “wiring” impacts our relationship dynamics.
101 Things I Wish I Knew When I Got Married is another great book on creating and maintaining a healthy relationship.
Jenya is reading The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work by John Gottman and Nan Silver. She likes that it is written in simple language and it has very clear and easy to understand scenarios that are applicable to your average couple. Gives concrete suggestions on how to initiate conversations with your partner in a supportive and non-critical manner. Feels like it would be beneficial to all couples, not just marriages that are in present turmoil.
Lindsey says Us by Terry Real is a game changer for couples work, and generally understanding all relationships. He takes on our individualistic society, isn’t afraid to call out ineffective approaches to couples work and difficult people like narcissists, and somehow manages to get us inspired to grow up and connect with each other.
If You Need Parenting Support:
Emmy and Marcus each suggested a Dan Siegel book! 👑
Emmy says, “The best book I read on parenting and discipline is No-Drama Discipline by Dan Siegel. This very dense book breaks down the key principles of discipline, focusing on what is important–connection, repair, learning, and embracing the messiness and imperfection of parenting for adults and growing up for children. This is a must-read for any parent struggling to figure out how to be both assertive and loving when it comes to setting boundaries and guidelines for their children.”
Marcus suggests Brainstorm by Dan Siegel and says, “I really appreciate the way he talks about adolescence. I think it’s a useful read for parents. For me it sparked empathy, curiosity and appreciation.”
If You Want Straight Talk On Teens Today:
There’s nothing like The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt. Expect this to top many other book lists, including the one from the Greater Good. We also wrote about it in our July blog post about Kids, Screens and Solutions. Haidt has clear recommendations and reasons behind his call for protecting our children from digital overuse and social media, and has mental health outcomes to back it up.
If You Are Grieving:
Tsveta says that The Fall of Freddie the Leaf shows us the delicate balance between life and death, and has helped readers navigate death and dying and the passage of time, and loss of a loved one.
Lindsey suggests Everything Happens For A Reason (And Other Lies I’ve Loved) by Kate Bowler. Kate is the real deal: a professor at Duke’s divinity school and living with stage 4 cancer. She’s hilarious, real, and speaks to all of us who have gone through hard times. Also the perfect book for anyone who wants to support someone going through a hard time; it even has suggestions of things to say at the back (hint: do not say “everything happens for a reason.”
If You Or Someone You Love Is Sensitive:
Jessica says, “The book Highly Sensitive Person by Elaine N. Aron offers a comforting and validating journey into the world of high sensitivity. This book helps you embrace your unique traits, manage sensory overload, and navigate social situations with confidence. It’s a powerful tool for living authentically and finding peace within yourself.”
If You’ve Been Run Ragged:
Jessica and Kim both recommend Set Boundaries, Find Peace by Nedra Glover Tawwab, which empowers you to create healthier, more fulfilling relationships. Through practical advice and compassionate guidance, you’ll learn how to prioritize your needs, communicate assertively, and set boundaries that honor your well-being. It’s a transformative read that will help you cultivate more joy and harmony in your life.
Tara is reading Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle by Emily Nagoski, PhD and Amelia Nagoski, DMA. Tara appreciates that it includes worksheets, which is great to make this personally useful.
If You Experience Loneliness:
Emmy suggests Platonic by Marisa Franco. This is an amazing book and the answer for anyone struggling with loneliness in adulthood. It is a great blend of practical suggestions and research that will help you feel empowered and more confident in all your social opportunities.
If You Get Emotional:
Christina suggests From Triggered to Tranquil by Susan Campbell . She says, “I like how this book normalizes being triggered and helps the reader understand where the triggers may come from, as well as ways to manage them in relationships.”
If You Are Discovering Yourself:
Breanne suggests The Defining Decade: Why Your Twenties Matter and How to Make the Most of Them Now by Dr. Meg Jay. She explains how “this is an essential read for anyone in their twenties, offering insights into career, relationships, and identity. Dr. Jay emphasizes that your twenties are a critical time for laying the foundation of your future and highlights the importance of being intentional and proactive. Backed by psychological research and real-life examples, the book provides practical advice for making the most of your twenties.
We hope to see you at our library soon!
