There’s a quiet kind of strength in picking up a book when your mind feels messy. Whether you’re battling anxiety, navigating burnout, healing from trauma, or simply trying to understand yourself better, the right book can feel like a wise friend who knows exactly what to say.
At Riya’s Blogs, we believe healing is both personal and powerful—and the journey often begins with the written word. That’s why we’ve created this carefully curated, truly useful guide to the best books on mental wellbeing. From mental health books that break down the science of the mind to daily inspirational books that uplift your mornings, this list is your cozy, comforting, evidence-based toolkit.
So brew yourself a cup of tea, find a soft corner to sink into, and let’s dive in.
1. The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk
For those carrying trauma in the body and soul
It’s impossible to talk about top mental health books without mentioning this groundbreaking masterpiece. Van der Kolk, a pioneering psychiatrist, explains how trauma doesn’t just live in our memories—it embeds itself in our nervous systems and bodies.
Through patient stories, clinical insight, and deep compassion, this book explores how yoga, EMDR, neurofeedback, and mindfulness are more than buzzwords—they’re tools of recovery. It’s not just a mental health book, it’s a roadmap to rediscovering your body’s safety.
If you’ve ever felt stuck in old wounds, this book might just be the beginning of your liberation.
2. Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottlieb
The therapist becomes the patient… and we’re all the wiser for it
Imagine a therapist who suddenly finds herself on the other side of the couch. That’s exactly what happens in this sharp, hilarious, and heartbreakingly real memoir by Lori Gottlieb. Blending memoir and professional insight, it humanizes therapy in the most delightful way.
This book is a favorite among readers looking for feel good books for women, but it speaks universally. It gently unpacks themes of grief, identity, relationships, and healing.
It’s also one of the best rated health books for people wondering: Can everyone heal from self help? The answer isn’t simple—but this book will get you closer to your own truth.
3. Atomic Habits by James Clear
For the psychology nerd who wants their life to make sense
Okay, you might be wondering, “Is this really a mental health book?” The answer is: absolutely yes.
James Clear’s writing takes the abstract world of behavioral psychology and distills it into practical, doable advice. He shows us that it’s not about radical transformation—it’s about getting 1% better each day. That subtle mindset shift? It’s mental health magic.
In fact, this is one of the best behavioral health books for those struggling with depression or anxiety. Small, consistent actions have an enormous impact on both physical health and mental health.
4. Reasons to Stay Alive by Matt Haig
A love letter to life from someone who almost gave up
If you’re looking for books for depression that are honest without being hopeless, this is it. Matt Haig was in his twenties when a sudden breakdown consumed his life. What followed was a harrowing but ultimately uplifting journey back to himself.
This book isn’t just for people with depression—it’s for their families, partners, and friends too. It’s one of the most recommended health books because it offers both practical advice and poetic reflection.
It’s raw, real, and will leave you feeling less alone.
5. You Are Not a Before Picture by Alex Light
Unlearning body shame and finding joy in your skin
In a world obsessed with glow-ups and before-after photos, this book stands out as a warm, firm hug to your soul. Alex Light’s writing is deeply personal and rooted in both lived experience and research.
It’s among the most good mental health books for women, especially those battling disordered eating, low self-worth, and toxic beauty standards. It also straddles the important intersection of books on physical health and mental health, reminding us that true wellness isn’t about six-pack abs—it’s about self-respect.
6. Lost Connections by Johann Hari
Reframing depression beyond brain chemistry
What if depression isn’t just a chemical imbalance? What if it’s also a symptom of disconnection—from purpose, community, nature, and meaning?
This book is a game-changer. Hari travels across the world to understand the root causes of depression and what really heals us. Through a mix of investigative journalism and empathy, it challenges everything we thought we knew about mental illness.
It’s one of the best books for depression, especially for those who’ve tried medication and still feel empty. And yes, it will make you rethink your relationships, your work, and even your phone habits.
7. Permission to Come Home by Dr. Jenny Wang
For the overachiever hiding their pain behind perfection
Written especially for Asian Americans but resonant for anyone raised with emotional restraint, this book is a tender invitation to rediscover yourself. Dr. Wang, a psychologist and founder of @asiansformentalhealth, addresses intergenerational trauma, cultural shame, and the quiet battles so many of us carry.
It’s one of the most unique education psychology books dealing with anxiety, particularly social anxiety that’s rooted in upbringing.
This book is perfect for those who’ve always felt like they had to “hold it all together.”
8. Radical Acceptance by Tara Brach
Becoming your own best friend, finally
Sometimes, what hurts most isn’t what happened—it’s how harshly we judge ourselves afterward.
Tara Brach, a psychologist and meditation teacher, brings together Buddhist teachings and neuroscience in this transformative guide to mental wellbeing. She introduces the concept of “the trance of unworthiness” and teaches how daily inspirational books like this can shift your entire emotional experience.
This isn’t a quick fix. But it’s the gentle, powerful kind of book that sits with you long after you close it.
9. Girl, Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis
Controversial, bold, and oddly energizing
Is it everyone’s cup of tea? No. Is it empowering to some? Yes.
Rachel Hollis’s bestselling book breaks down lies women tell themselves—from “I’m not good enough” to “I can’t pursue my dreams.” While it may not be the most clinical of behavioral health books, it strikes a motivational chord with many readers seeking momentum and confidence.
If you need a pep talk in paperback form, this could be it. Just take it with a pinch of salt, and a whole lot of self-compassion.
10. Anxious People by Fredrik Backman
A fictional hug for your anxious brain
Let’s wrap this list with a little twist—a fictional feel good book that’s secretly a masterclass in human psychology.
In Anxious People, a failed bank robbery leads to a hostage situation… that becomes a story about empathy, miscommunication, and the quiet sadness people hide. This novel is a beautiful exploration of mental illness, grief, and second chances.
It’s proof that books about mental illness don’t always have to be nonfiction to hit home.
11. The Happiness Trap by Dr. Russ Harris
Acceptance Commitment Therapy for real-life messiness
This book is a total game-changer for anyone caught in the endless loop of trying to “fix” themselves. Dr. Harris brings the science of ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) to the mainstream in a way that’s accessible, relatable, and honestly, kind of fun.
Instead of focusing on positive thinking (which often doesn’t work when you’re down), this book teaches you how to live with your thoughts without being controlled by them. It’s one of the top mental health books for people who feel exhausted by “happiness culture” and just want tools that actually work.
If you’re looking for good mental health books that help you handle anxiety, panic, and fear head-on—without pretending life is always sunshine—this is it.
12. It’s OK That You’re Not OK by Megan Devine
Grief, loss, and the myth of moving on
Not all health books are about energy boosts and habit hacks. Some are about heartbreak. This is one of those, and it’s one of the most needed.
After losing her partner suddenly, therapist Megan Devine realized how poorly our culture understands grief. Her book isn’t about fixing grief—it’s about making space for it. It’s validating, real, and raw.
For anyone who feels isolated by loss, this is one of the best books on mental health that says: You’re not broken. You’re grieving. A subtle but radical difference.
13. Untamed by Glennon Doyle
Reclaim your wild, messy, beautiful self
This one’s for the women who’ve tried to shrink themselves for too long. Glennon Doyle’s memoir-manifesto is bold, vulnerable, and deeply empowering. It’s not a typical mental health book, but it’s undoubtedly one of the best books on mental wellbeing for women trying to break free from people-pleasing, perfectionism, and societal “shoulds.”
Her journey—from a broken marriage to an unexpected love story and full self-acceptance—reminds us that healing is not always gentle. Sometimes it’s loud, rebellious, and divine.
If you’re craving one of those feel good books for women that also lights a fire in your belly, this one is it.
14. Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle by Emily Nagoski and Amelia Nagoski
Why stress gets stuck in your body—and how to let it go
Raise your hand if you’ve ever finished a long day, collapsed on the couch, and still felt like you hadn’t done enough. This book explains why.
Using solid science and sisterly banter, the Nagoski twins dive into how stress doesn’t just disappear—it needs to be completed. They teach us how to do that through physical movement, connection, rest, and joy.
This is one of the most powerful books on physical health and mental health together. If you’re looking for recommended health books that actually explain why you’re so tired all the time, read this.
It’s also a great pick for books dealing with anxiety caused by modern life’s relentless pace.
15. Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain
Finally, a love letter to the quiet ones
Not all anxiety is loud. Some of it lives quietly in our desire to blend in, avoid conflict, and not make waves.
In Quiet, Susan Cain champions the introverts of the world—those who often feel unseen or undervalued in workplaces, relationships, and schools. It’s one of the most brilliant education psychology books dealing with anxiety, particularly social and performance anxiety.
This book is a must-read for anyone who’s ever felt like they had to shout to be heard. Cain’s calm, confident voice proves that quiet power is real power.
16. Self-Compassion by Dr. Kristin Neff
The kindness revolution your inner critic doesn’t want you to read
If your inner voice sounds more like a bully than a best friend, this book is your balm.
Dr. Neff is one of the world’s leading researchers on self-compassion. This book blends neuroscience, mindfulness, and real-life exercises to teach you how to stop beating yourself up and start supporting yourself like you would a loved one.
It’s one of the best rated mental health books for people battling low self-esteem, shame, or perfectionism. If you’ve ever asked, Can everyone heal from self help?—this book gently whispers: Yes. And this is how.
17. The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown
Dare to live wholeheartedly—even when it’s scary
No list of good mental health books is complete without the queen of vulnerability herself: Brené Brown.
This compact but powerful book is a permission slip to show up as your messy, real self. Through her ten guideposts for wholehearted living, Brené invites us to let go of what people think and embrace authenticity.
It’s a mix of self-help, research, and storytelling—a classic in the world of books about mental illness and recovery from internalized shame.
18. Think Like a Monk by Jay Shetty
Ancient wisdom for the modern mind
Former monk turned motivational speaker, Jay Shetty takes the principles of mindfulness, service, detachment, and purpose and translates them into real-world, actionable steps.
This book has become one of the most recommended health books for young adults and entrepreneurs alike. Why? Because it offers clarity in a world that’s constantly demanding more from us.
If you’re juggling too much and feel lost in the noise, this is one of the best books on mental wellbeing to quiet the chaos and reconnect with what truly matters.
19. The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* by Mark Manson
Harsh truths wrapped in humor and bright-orange cover
Some call it anti-self-help. Others call it a reality check. Either way, it’s helped millions reframe their priorities and mental state.
Manson’s approach is blunt, funny, and oddly comforting. He strips away toxic positivity and tells us that life is hard—and that’s okay. If you want a mental health book that doesn’t pretend to have it all figured out, this one’s a fresh dose of realism.
While it may not be a traditional book on mental illness, it’s certainly one of the most relatable books on mental health for people who are tired of sugar-coated advice.
20. Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
Creativity as therapy, joy, and rebellion
Feeling stuck, uninspired, or creatively drained? This book will kiss your soul back to life.
Gilbert, author of Eat, Pray, Love, explores the link between creativity and mental wellness in a way that’s poetic, grounded, and wildly freeing. It’s one of the best daily inspirational books for artists, dreamers, and those rebuilding their sense of wonder.
If you’re searching for books for depression that focus on expression, joy, and healing through art—Big Magic is your spirit guide.
Final Thoughts from Riya’s Blogs 🌿
Mental health isn’t a straight road. Some days, healing looks like journaling in your pajamas with a warm drink. Other days, it’s crying into a book that somehow gets you more than anyone else has. And sometimes, it’s just showing up—again and again—until things feel a little lighter.
These best books on mental wellbeing aren’t cures. But they are companions. They remind us we’re not alone. They teach us how to live better, love deeper, and forgive ourselves more freely.
So wherever you are on your journey, may one of these top mental health books find its way into your hands—and into your heart.
Want to read a bit more? Find some more of my writings here-
Must-Read High School Reads: The Best Books for High Schoolers to Dive Into
The Taste of Pani Puri & Love: A Romantic Story
Terrifyingly Good Reads: A Deep Dive into the Best Horror Novels
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