The best 40 Anxiety books

The Highly Sensitive Person (1996) improves our understanding of that one-fifth of the population whose nervous systems pick up signals the average person can’t register. With greater self-awareness and society’s understanding, people with heightened sensitivity can flourish.

Feeling Good (1999) offers an uplifting perspective on managing conditions like anxiety, guilt, pessimism, and depression, emphasizing that they can be effectively addressed through scientifically proven techniques. Filled with practical strategies, it provides tools to enhance mood, build self-esteem, and better navigate the challenges of negative emotions.

Eliza and Her Monsters by Francesca Zappia is a captivating novel that delves into the world of online fandom and the challenges of balancing a secret identity with real-life struggles. It follows the story of Eliza, a talented webcomic artist who prefers the online world to the real one. When her webcomic gains unexpected popularity, Eliza must confront her fears and learn to navigate the complexities of friendship and love.

Thank You, Mr. Falker is a heartfelt memoir by Patricia Polacco. It tells the inspiring story of a young girl who struggles with dyslexia and the teacher who helps her overcome her challenges. Through touching illustrations and poignant storytelling, the book reminds us of the power of educators and their ability to change lives.

How to Be Yourself by Ellen Hendriksen is a practical and empowering guide for anyone struggling with social anxiety. Drawing on her expertise as a clinical psychologist, Hendriksen offers valuable insights and actionable strategies to help readers break free from the grip of social fears and embrace their true selves. With a blend of science, real-life stories, and compassionate advice, this book provides a roadmap for building confidence and navigating social situations with ease.

From Panic to Power by Lucinda Bassett is a self-help book that offers practical strategies for overcoming anxiety and panic attacks. Drawing from her own experiences, Bassett provides valuable insights and step-by-step techniques to help readers take control of their fears and live a more empowered life. It's a must-read for anyone looking to break free from the grip of anxiety.

A Quiet Kind of Thunder by Sara Barnard is a heartwarming and beautifully written novel that explores the power of communication and connection. It tells the story of Steffi, a girl who struggles with selective mutism, and Rhys, a boy who is deaf. As they form a unique bond and learn to communicate in their own special way, they discover that sometimes the quietest voices can be the most powerful.

Real Friends by Shannon Hale and LeUyen Pham is a heartfelt graphic novel memoir that explores the complexities of childhood friendships. Through beautiful illustrations and honest storytelling, the book delves into the challenges of fitting in, finding true friends, and staying true to oneself. It is a relatable and inspiring read for anyone who has ever experienced the ups and downs of friendship.

Big Mushy Happy Lump by Sarah Andersen is a collection of witty and relatable comics that explore the everyday struggles and awkward moments of adulthood. Through her charming illustrations and humorous storytelling, Andersen delves into topics such as anxiety, self-image, and the joys of staying in. This delightful book is sure to make you laugh and nod in agreement at the universal experiences it captures.

Guts is a graphic novel by Raina Telgemeier that delves into the author's experiences with anxiety and fear during her childhood. Through her vivid illustrations and honest storytelling, Telgemeier explores the challenges she faced and how she ultimately found the strength to overcome her struggles.

First, We Make the Beast Beautiful by Sarah Wilson is a deeply personal and insightful exploration of anxiety. Wilson shares her own experiences and offers a unique perspective on how to embrace and find beauty in the challenges of living with anxiety. Blending memoir, research, and practical advice, this book provides a compassionate and empowering guide for anyone dealing with mental health issues.

Highly Illogical Behavior by John Corey Whaley is a thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of mental illness and the power of human connection. The story follows sixteen-year-old Solomon, who hasn't left his house in three years due to severe agoraphobia. When Lisa, an ambitious and determined high school student, sets out to "cure" Solomon as part of a psychology project, an unlikely friendship forms and their lives are forever changed. Through humor and heart, the book challenges societal norms and shines a light on the importance of understanding and acceptance.

Queens of Geek (2017) by Jen Wilde is a heartwarming young adult novel that follows three friends as they attend a comic book convention. Filled with diverse characters and themes of empowerment and self-acceptance, this book celebrates the geek community and the power of friendship.

It's Kind of a Funny Story by Ned Vizzini takes you on a journey into the mind of a young boy struggling with mental illness. Through a blend of humor and raw honesty, it sheds light on the complexities of depression and the importance of seeking help. A thought-provoking and heartwarming read.

The Stress-Proof Brain by Melanie Greenberg PhD offers practical strategies and exercises to rewire your brain and reduce stress. Drawing on neuroscience and psychology, the book provides valuable insights into how our brains respond to stress and how we can cultivate resilience and emotional balance. A must-read for anyone looking to better manage their stress levels.

Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell follows the story of Cath, a socially awkward college freshman who is deeply immersed in the world of fan fiction. As she navigates the challenges of her new life, Cath grapples with the complexities of family, friendship, and first love. This heartwarming novel delves into themes of identity and self-discovery, making it a must-read for anyone who has ever been a passionate fan.

All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven is a powerful and heartbreaking novel that explores mental illness, love, and the impact we have on each other. It tells the story of two teenagers, Violet and Finch, who meet on the ledge of a bell tower and develop an unlikely friendship as they embark on a journey to discover the beauty and meaning in their lives.

Where'd You Go, Bernadette is a captivating novel by Maria Semple that tells the story of a quirky and brilliant woman named Bernadette Fox who goes missing. Through a series of emails, letters, and documents, the book unravels the mystery of her disappearance while also exploring themes of family, identity, and the pursuit of happiness.

Badass Ways to End Anxiety & Stop Panic Attacks! offers a bold and unconventional approach to overcoming anxiety and panic attacks. Geert Verschaeve challenges traditional methods and provides practical strategies to rewire your brain, regain control, and live a life free from fear. With humor and empathy, this book is a must-read for anyone ready to take charge of their mental health.

I Wish You All the Best by Mason Deaver is a heartwarming and timely young adult novel. It tells the story of Ben, a non-binary teen who is kicked out of their home after coming out to their parents. Ben goes to live with their estranged sister and navigates their new school, all while forming a special bond with their classmate Nathan. This book beautifully explores identity, family, and the power of acceptance.

The Upside of Unrequited by Becky Albertalli is a heartwarming and relatable story about love, friendship, and self-discovery. It follows the journey of seventeen-year-old Molly as she navigates her first crush, unrequited love, and the ups and downs of teenage life. With its authentic characters and witty writing, this book will make you laugh, cry, and ultimately leave you with a warm fuzzy feeling.

Finding Audrey by Sophie Kinsella is a heartwarming and humorous novel that delves into the life of Audrey, a teenage girl struggling with anxiety. Through a series of funny and touching events, Audrey finds support from her quirky family, meets a boy who helps her step out of her comfort zone, and ultimately begins to find her way back to herself. It's a story of resilience, friendship, and the power of love.

Dare by Barry McDonagh is a groundbreaking book that offers a new approach to overcoming anxiety. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, McDonagh challenges traditional methods of managing anxiety and introduces the 'Dare Response' technique. This book empowers readers to face their fears and break free from the grip of anxiety.

The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang is a heartwarming and unconventional romance novel that follows Stella, a brilliant mathematician with Asperger's, as she hires an escort to help her learn about intimacy. As they embark on a series of lessons, Stella and Michael find themselves falling for each other in unexpected ways, challenging their own beliefs about love and relationships.

Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman is a compelling novel that delves into the life of the quirky and solitary Eleanor Oliphant. As Eleanor navigates through everyday life with her unique perspective, her carefully constructed world begins to unravel. This heartwarming and thought-provoking story explores themes of loneliness, the power of human connection, and the possibility of healing.

By Your Side by Kasie West is a heartwarming young adult novel that tells the story of Autumn and Dax, who get locked in a library for a weekend. As they navigate their unexpected situation, they form a deep connection and learn to trust each other. The book explores themes of friendship, mental health, and the importance of being true to oneself.

Making Friends with Anxiety by Sarah Rayner is a compassionate guide that offers practical advice and personal insights for managing anxiety. Through real-life stories and expert tips, the book helps readers understand their anxiety and provides strategies for building a healthier relationship with it. It offers a reassuring perspective and empowers individuals to take control of their mental well-being.

All the Answers by Kate Messner is a captivating middle-grade novel that explores the power of knowledge and the importance of asking the right questions. When Ava discovers a magical pencil that provides the answers to any question, she embarks on a journey to uncover the truth about her family and the mysterious origins of the pencil. This thought-provoking book delves into themes of curiosity, friendship, and the complexities of life.

Truly Devious is a captivating mystery novel by Maureen Johnson. Set in an exclusive academy, it follows teenager Stevie Bell as she investigates a cold case involving the kidnapping and murder of students in the 1930s. With its clever plot twists and engaging characters, this book will keep you guessing until the very end.

Turtles All the Way Down by John Green delves into the life of 16-year-old Aza Holmes as she navigates friendship, love, and her own thoughts. Set against the backdrop of a mystery, this novel offers a raw and honest portrayal of mental illness and the complexities of the human mind.

Anxious for Nothing by Max Lucado offers a faith-based perspective on dealing with anxiety and finding peace in a chaotic world. Drawing from biblical teachings and personal anecdotes, the book provides practical advice and reassurance for those struggling with overwhelming worry and fear.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky is a poignant coming-of-age story that follows Charlie, a shy and introspective teenager. Through a series of letters, Charlie shares his experiences as he navigates high school, friendship, love, and loss. The book delves into themes of mental health, identity, and the complexities of growing up.

Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston is a heartwarming and hilarious romantic comedy that imagines an alternate reality where the son of the first female president of the United States falls in love with a prince of England. Filled with wit, charm, and plenty of swoon-worthy moments, this book explores themes of identity, family, and the power of love to transcend boundaries.

Zen as F*ck by Monica Sweeney is a hilarious and irreverent guide to finding inner peace. Through a combination of profanity-laced wisdom and thought-provoking prompts, this book encourages readers to let go of their worries and embrace the present moment. It's a refreshing take on mindfulness that will make you laugh out loud while also inspiring you to live a more zen life.

Hyperbole and a Half is a hilarious and heartfelt collection of comics and essays that delves into the author's own experiences with depression and anxiety. Allie Brosh uses her unique blend of humor and honesty to explore the complexities of mental health, making it a must-read for anyone looking for a fresh perspective on the subject.

Let's Pretend This Never Happened is a memoir by Jenny Lawson that takes readers on a hilarious and unconventional journey through her life. With a unique blend of wit and honesty, Lawson shares outrageous and absurd anecdotes that will make you laugh out loud while also touching on deeper themes of family, mental health, and acceptance. It's a book that reminds us that sometimes the most extraordinary stories are found in the most ordinary lives.

Furiously Happy (2015) is a hilarious and heartfelt memoir by Jenny Lawson. Through her witty and unapologetic writing, Lawson shares her experiences with mental illness and shows that it's possible to find joy and purpose in life, even in the darkest moments. With laugh-out-loud anecdotes and raw honesty, this book challenges the stigma surrounding mental health and celebrates the power of being furiously happy.

The Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills Workbook by Matthew McKay is a comprehensive guide to learning and implementing the skills of dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). It provides practical exercises and worksheets to help individuals regulate their emotions, improve interpersonal relationships, and cope with challenging situations. Whether you are struggling with mental health issues or simply want to enhance your emotional well-being, this book offers valuable insights and strategies for personal growth.

The Stress-Proof Brain by Melanie Greenberg explores the science behind stress and offers practical strategies for managing and reducing its impact on our lives. Drawing on research from psychology and neuroscience, the book provides insights into how our brains respond to stress and offers mindfulness-based techniques to rewire our brain's stress response. It is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their mental well-being and build resilience in the face of life's challenges.

The Worry Trick by David Carbonell offers practical strategies for overcoming chronic worry and anxiety. It explores how our minds can play tricks on us, leading us to believe that our worries are necessary and productive. Through relatable examples and step-by-step techniques, the book helps readers break free from the cycle of worrying and regain control of their lives.