Mental Health resources - books, blogs and podcasts
Stress is becoming an inevitable part of many lives. With work and personal challenges, it's easy to feel overwhelmed.
One effective way to combat stress is through the power of literature, blogs, and podcasts.
Engaging with written or spoken content can offer valuable insights, strategies, and even comfort during trying times. Here you can find a list of valuable resources worth exploring to support your mental health.
BLOGS to explore
Blogs have emerged as a personalised platform for sharing experiences, tips, and coping mechanisms. From mindfulness practices to stress management techniques, bloggers offer a wealth of knowledge that is easily accessible and relatable. Reading personal accounts of overcoming adversity can inspire hope and resilience in readers facing similar challenges. These blogs provide valuable resources, support, and information for individuals seeking guidance, validation, and connection in their mental health journey.
1.Psych Central
Psych Central offers a variety of resources, including blogs covering different aspects of mental health, self-help, and psychology. The blog features articles written by mental health professionals, advocates, and individuals sharing their personal experiences
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2.The Mighty
The Mighty's blog section covers a wide range of mental health topics, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more. It features articles written by contributors who share their experiences, insights, and advice for coping with mental health challenges.
“Blogs offer a wealth of knowledge that is easily accessible and relatable.”
3.Tiny Buddha
While not exclusively focused on mental health, Tiny Buddha's blog offers articles on mindfulness, self-care, personal growth, and overcoming challenges. It provides practical tips and inspirational stories to help readers navigate life's ups and downs with greater resilience and well-being.
Tiny Buddha: Wisdom Quotes, Letting Go, Letting Happiness In
4. NAMI
NAMI's (National Alliance on Mental Illness) blog features articles written by mental health professionals, advocates, and individuals affected by mental illness. It covers topics such as stigma reduction, coping strategies, advocacy efforts, and resources for individuals and families affected by mental health conditions.
5. The Blurt Foundation
The Blurt Foundation's blog offers a mix of personal stories, practical advice, and informative articles related to mental health and well-being. It covers topics such as self-care, mindfulness, depression, anxiety, and navigating life with a mental health condition.
BOOKS to read
Books have long been hailed as a sanctuary for the mind. Whether it's diving into a fictional world to escape reality or delving into self-help books for practical advice, reading provides a sense of solace and perspective. The act of immersing yourself in a good book can transport us to a different place, allowing our minds to temporarily detach from stressors. The below books provide valuable guidance and inspiration for cultivating a positive mindset, overcoming obstacles, and living a more fulfilling life.
1. The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment
by Eckhart Tolle
This book explores the concept of mindfulness and living in the present moment. Tolle explains how embracing the present moment can lead to inner peace and a shift in consciousness towards a more positive outlook on life.
2. Mindset: The New Psychology of Success, by Carol S. Dweck
Carol Dweck introduces the concept of fixed versus growth mindsets and explains how our beliefs about our abilities can influence our success and happiness. She offers practical strategies for cultivating a growth mindset to achieve personal and professional goals.
“Books have long been hailed as a sanctuary for the mind”
3.The Happiness Advantage: How a Positive Brain Fuels Success in Work and Life, by Shawn Achor
Shawn Achor explores the connection between happiness and success, arguing that a positive mindset can lead to greater productivity, resilience, and overall well-being. He shares research-backed strategies for cultivating happiness and positivity in daily life.
4. Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert
Although not explicitly about positive mindset, this book offers valuable insights into embracing creativity and pursuing passions with courage and curiosity. Gilbert encourages readers to adopt a positive attitude towards their creative endeavors and to overcome fear and self-doubt.
5. You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life by Jen Sincero:
Jen Sincero combines humor, practical advice, and motivational insights to help readers overcome self-limiting beliefs and cultivate self-confidence. The book offers strategies for embracing a positive mindset, setting goals, and creating the life you desire.
PODCASTS worth a listen
Podcasts, with their conversational format and diverse range of topics, provide another avenue for stress relief. Tuning in to podcasts focused on mental health, mindfulness, or personal development can feel like having a supportive friend in your ear. Listening to experts discuss strategies for stress reduction or simply hearing stories of triumph over adversity can instill a sense of empowerment and reassurance.
The Mental Illness Happy Hour: Hosted by comedian Paul Gilmartin, this podcast offers candid and often humorous conversations about mental health, featuring guests sharing their personal experiences with mental illness.
Therapy Chat: Hosted by Laura Reagan, LCSW-C, Therapy Chat explores various topics related to mental health, therapy, and self-care. Each episode features interviews with experts in the field of psychology and counseling.
The Hilarious World of Depression: This podcast combines humor with personal stories to explore depression and mental health. Hosted by John Moe, it features interviews with comedians, actors, and musicians who share their experiences with depression.
The Anxiety Coaches Podcast: Hosted by Gina Ryan, MA, and Dennis Simsek, this podcast provides practical tips, techniques, and advice for managing anxiety and improving mental well-being. Episodes cover topics such as mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral strategies, and relaxation techniques.
The Hardcore Self Help Podcast: Hosted by psychologist Dr. Robert Duff, this podcast offers straightforward advice and insights into mental health and self-improvement. Dr. Duff answers listener questions and discusses topics such as anxiety, depression, relationships, and motivation.
Whether it's curling up with a good book, exploring insightful blog posts, or tuning in to a motivational podcast, prioritise moments of relaxation and rejuvenation for your mental well-being. Together, we can cultivate a healthier relationship with stress and foster a greater sense of resilience in ourselves and those around us.