Knowledge about mental illnesses and the people who struggle with them can go a long way in empowering you to come alongside friends and family members dealing with these conditions. As we begin a new year, we encourage you to commit to educating yourself on mental illness and how you can help those who live with mental health challenges. These eight books are a great place to start.
Troubled Minds: Mental Illness and the Church’s Mission by Amy Simpson
For many who deal with mental illness, church can be uncomfortable, unwelcoming and even unkind. But local fellowships can also be places that welcome, love and support whose who live with mental health difficulties. Amy Simpson draws upon thorough research and her own family’s experiences to help churches invite those who are struggling into our congregations with open arms.
You Are Not Alone: The NAMI Guide to Navigating Mental Health by Ken Duckworth, MD
Written by a psychiatrist, this comprehensive guide draws from the experiences of over 125 individuals and their diverse mental health journeys. It offers advice on dealing with a wide range of mental health conditions and navigating care, research-based evidence on treatments and approaches, and insight and advice from renowned clinical experts and practitioners.
I Am Not Sick, I Don’t Need Help! How to Help Someone with Mental Illness Accept Treatment by Xavier Amador
What if a friend or family member is suffering from a mental illness but doesn’t want to seek help? Dr. Xavier Amador was inspired to research this topic by his efforts to assist his brother, who had developed schizophrenia. He provides insight into why a loved one might be resistant to treatment and gives practical advice for coming alongside someone who doesn’t recognize they’re ill or doesn’t believe they need assistance. His LEAP (Listen, Empathize, Agree and Partner) method helps those who are struggling accept help.
Grace for the Afflicted: A Clinical and Biblical Perspective on Mental Illness by Mathew S. Stanford
Misinformation and myths about mental health challenges often lead Christians to respond to those living with these conditions in fear. Matthew Sanford, a church leader, professor and the CEO of the Hope and Healing Center & Institute, seeks to educate Christians about common mental illnesses from biblical and scientific perspectives, enabling readers to be guided by grace and truth as they interact with those who are struggling.
An Unquiet Mind: A Memoir of Moods and Madness by Kay Redfield Jamison
Dr. Jamison, one of the leading authors on bipolar disorder, understands this illness not only from her career in academic medicine but also from her own experience. She gives readers a window into her struggles with the highs and lows of living with this disorder, offering a unique perspective as both the patient and the practitioner.
Understanding Mental Illness: A Comprehensive Guide to Mental Health Disorders for Family and Friends by Carlin Barnes MD and Marketa Wills MD, MBA
Approximately half of Americans living with mental illness don’t receive adequate care and treatment. This guide, written by two Harvard-trained psychiatrists, seeks to address the stigma and lack of awareness that contribute to this issue. It seeks to educate readers, helping them better understand mental health and psychiatric conditions and come alongside loved ones who are struggling.
The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk M.D.
Trauma is a common theme in the stories of many who live with mental illness. Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, one of the world’s foremost experts on this topic, demonstrates how trauma literally reshapes the body and the brain, compromising individuals’ capacities for pleasure, engagement, self-control and trust, as well as explores innovative treatments that can bring hope to those who are suffering.
Sparks of Redemptive Grace: Seeking and Seeing God Amid a Loved One’s Mental Illness by Catherine P. Downing
Even in the depths of struggles with mental illness, God’s unfailing love shines through. Catherine P. Downing shares honestly about both the suffering that families impacted by mental illness endure and the Lord’s goodness in the midst of the darkness. This short book provides inspiration and information as it paints a picture of transparent hope in God, forged in fear and faith.
At The Well Community those who live with serious mental illnesses find a place to belong, as well as support from caring, knowledgeable staff. Your gift will help The Well continue to serve those in the Dallas area who deal with the daily challenges of mental health difficulties.
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