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Trauma refers to an emotional wound. Because emotional wounds are not visible like physical wounds, the healing process can be complicated and confusing at times. Trauma can create painful symptoms and emotions, such as nightmares, flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, or physical pain such as headaches.Depending on the type and severity oftrauma symptomsexperienced, a person may benefit from multiplerecovery techniques.Books can be a very helpful tool on the road to recovery. They give us stories to relate to, and a format in which to document and record our experiences and insights to help promote more in-depth discussions during therapy sessions.Here are the best books for PTSD, according to a Licensed Mental Health Counselor.
Trauma refers to an emotional wound. Because emotional wounds are not visible like physical wounds, the healing process can be complicated and confusing at times. Trauma can create painful symptoms and emotions, such as nightmares, flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, or physical pain such as headaches.Depending on the type and severity oftrauma symptomsexperienced, a person may benefit from multiplerecovery techniques.
Books can be a very helpful tool on the road to recovery. They give us stories to relate to, and a format in which to document and record our experiences and insights to help promote more in-depth discussions during therapy sessions.
Here are the best books for PTSD, according to a Licensed Mental Health Counselor.
ProsScience-backed techniquesWell researchedInformative and hopefulConsLong length at 292 pagesNot individualizedNo specific exercises given
ProsScience-backed techniquesWell researchedInformative and hopeful
Science-backed techniques
Well researched
Informative and hopeful
ConsLong length at 292 pagesNot individualizedNo specific exercises given
Long length at 292 pages
Not individualized
No specific exercises given
Price at time of publication: $16 for paperback
Expert Advice“When looking for the best resources related to PTSD recovery, it is imperative that you do some homework to ensure that the material has empirical research, utilizes evidence-based techniques, and supports the mind and body connection.Therefore, optimal resources used to navigate resolving the effects of trauma incorporate nervous system regulation in order to seek and establish safety and connection in the mind and body.”—Angela Walker, LMHC, MCAP, ICADC, ACS, Trauma Therapist at Sozo Wellness
Expert Advice
“When looking for the best resources related to PTSD recovery, it is imperative that you do some homework to ensure that the material has empirical research, utilizes evidence-based techniques, and supports the mind and body connection.Therefore, optimal resources used to navigate resolving the effects of trauma incorporate nervous system regulation in order to seek and establish safety and connection in the mind and body.”—Angela Walker, LMHC, MCAP, ICADC, ACS, Trauma Therapist at Sozo Wellness
“When looking for the best resources related to PTSD recovery, it is imperative that you do some homework to ensure that the material has empirical research, utilizes evidence-based techniques, and supports the mind and body connection.
Therefore, optimal resources used to navigate resolving the effects of trauma incorporate nervous system regulation in order to seek and establish safety and connection in the mind and body.”—Angela Walker, LMHC, MCAP, ICADC, ACS, Trauma Therapist at Sozo Wellness
ProsTailored to veteransHelpful for family members of veteransScience-backed techniquesConsPopulation-specificSingle type of trauma addressedDoes not replace therapy
ProsTailored to veteransHelpful for family members of veteransScience-backed techniques
Tailored to veterans
Helpful for family members of veterans
ConsPopulation-specificSingle type of trauma addressedDoes not replace therapy
Population-specific
Single type of trauma addressed
Does not replace therapy
Struggle Wellfocuses on teaching combat veterans specifically how to achieve post-traumatic growth instead ofpost-traumatic stress following war and military experiences. This book specifically targets the unique traumas and experiences of military veterans.
ProsImportant topic addressedEasy-to-read formatSpiritually basedConsSome may not benefit from religious focusTopic specificNot individualized
ProsImportant topic addressedEasy-to-read formatSpiritually based
Important topic addressed
Easy-to-read format
Spiritually based
ConsSome may not benefit from religious focusTopic specificNot individualized
Some may not benefit from religious focus
Topic specific
For those who benefit from a religious perspective,Lysa Terkuerstuses her theological training to discuss different aspects offorgivenesswhen the person who caused the pain is not sorry or willing to acknowledge the wrongdoing. Lysa teaches readers how to heal and move on with life despite a wrongdoer’s lack of remorse or acknowledgment.
Price at time of publication: $27
The 10 Best Mental Health Books to Read This Year
ProsEffective techniquesExpertly-written and educationalIn-depth healing activities offeredConsMay be overwhelming for beginnersBest used with therapyWorkbook style requires time and focus
ProsEffective techniquesExpertly-written and educationalIn-depth healing activities offered
Effective techniques
Expertly-written and educational
In-depth healing activities offered
ConsMay be overwhelming for beginnersBest used with therapyWorkbook style requires time and focus
May be overwhelming for beginners
Best used with therapy
Workbook style requires time and focus
Dr. Arielle Schwartzexpertly pairs education, activities, andtherapy techniquesto create an in-depth and thorough workbook. Complex trauma can involve a complicated recovery process, and this book helps make sense of all the layers and possible confusion.
Price at time of publication: $16
The Best Meditation Books and How to Use Them
ProsEffective techniquesHolistic lifestyle approachEasy-to-read formatConsDoes not address specific traumasDoes not replace benefits of therapyNot a workbook
ProsEffective techniquesHolistic lifestyle approachEasy-to-read format
Holistic lifestyle approach
ConsDoes not address specific traumasDoes not replace benefits of therapyNot a workbook
Does not address specific traumas
Does not replace benefits of therapy
Not a workbook
Price at time of publication: $25
ProsTopic affects manyInformativeWell-writtenConsLong length at 304 pagesNot individualized
ProsTopic affects manyInformativeWell-written
Topic affects many
Informative
Well-written
ConsLong length at 304 pagesNot individualized
Long length at 304 pages
Abusive relationships can create some of the most confusing trauma and, therefore, complex healing journeys. Bestselling authorJackson Mackenziediscusses different types of personality disorder traits that can lead totoxic relationshipsand how to heal from them.
Price at time of publication: $17 for paperback
ProsScience-backed techniquesGood for beginnersInformative and motivatingConsGender-specificSpecific trauma type addressedWorks best with therapy
ProsScience-backed techniquesGood for beginnersInformative and motivating
Good for beginners
Informative and motivating
ConsGender-specificSpecific trauma type addressedWorks best with therapy
Gender-specific
Specific trauma type addressed
Works best with therapy
Written as almost a beginner’s guide toPTSD recovery,Behavioral Action for PTSDpairs education with actionable steps to begin the healing process. Written specifically for men, this workbook is a great option for those who are struggling with the idea of going to therapy.
Price at time of publication: $20
ProsVery inspirationalHelpful for war veteransWell written, entertaining readConsNot a replacement for therapyNot individualizedSingle story, not evidence-based
ProsVery inspirationalHelpful for war veteransWell written, entertaining read
Very inspirational
Helpful for war veterans
Well written, entertaining read
ConsNot a replacement for therapyNot individualizedSingle story, not evidence-based
Not a replacement for therapy
Single story, not evidence-based
Written as an inspirational narrative,this bookis meant to help find purpose in the pain and implores readers to never lose sight of hope.
Price at time of publication: $15 for paperback
The ChoiceEmbrace the PossiblePHOTO: AmazonView on Amazon
The ChoiceEmbrace the Possible
The Choice
Embrace the Possible
PHOTO: Amazon
View on Amazon
ProsDeeply moving storyInspirational and hopefulVery well writtenConsSome scenes may be triggeringLong length at 320 pagesDoesn’t include science-backed healing techniques
ProsDeeply moving storyInspirational and hopefulVery well written
Deeply moving story
Inspirational and hopeful
Very well written
ConsSome scenes may be triggeringLong length at 320 pagesDoesn’t include science-backed healing techniques
Some scenes may be triggering
Long length at 320 pages
Doesn’t include science-backed healing techniques
Price at time of publication: $18
ProsEffective techniquesTopic useful for manyEducational and individualized formatConsTrauma not addressed directlyBest used with therapyWorkbook style requires writing
ProsEffective techniquesTopic useful for manyEducational and individualized format
Topic useful for many
Educational and individualized format
ConsTrauma not addressed directlyBest used with therapyWorkbook style requires writing
Trauma not addressed directly
Workbook style requires writing
In psychology,attachment theoriesexplore the way we either attach or struggle to attach to others. While supportive people can be a foundationally healing aspect to trauma recovery, the trauma can keep us from being able to healthily attach to others, heightening the pain.
Marriage and family therapistAnnie Chenexplores these attachment issues.
ProsIndividualized workbookEffective techniquesConsDoes not replace therapy or sober supportRequires time and focus to completeAudience-specific
ProsIndividualized workbookEffective techniques
Individualized workbook
ConsDoes not replace therapy or sober supportRequires time and focus to completeAudience-specific
Does not replace therapy or sober support
Requires time and focus to complete
Audience-specific
Price at time of publication: $23
Final Verdict
What to Look for in a Book for PTSD
Evidenced-based techniques
It’s important to find a self-help book that relies on science and evidence-based techniques to ensure the most success possible from following a book’s guidance. The more progress a person feels like they are making, the more likely they are to continue moving forward in their journey of healing.
Targets specific needs
Fits your current lifestyle
Trauma recovery requires time, energy, and focus. However, in real life, things can get very busy. Do what you can. If you only have 15 minutes a day to read, that’s better than nothing. If you have more time and space to focus on your recovery specifically, choose more in-depth resources.
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhile the “best” therapeutic method for treating PTSD depends on the individual, certain types of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapy are most common.In CBT, patients focus on shifting the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that disrupt their daily lives. Research has shown that exposure therapy in CBT helped between 61-82% of patients in eliminating their PTSD.Psychodynamic therapy focuses on the unconscious aspects of PTSD and how past traumatic events contribute to current behavior. This type of therapy has been shown to reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms.Still, other interventions can help treat PTSD, such ascognitive processing therapy,group therapy, andeye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).There’s no cure for PTSD, but it’s very treatable. To overcome or lessen the intensity of present symptoms of PTSD, most people must confront, process, and integrate the traumatic experiences of their past. To do this, psychotherapy and/or medication are highly recommended. Keep in mind that it can take time and resources to find the treatment that’s right for you, but getting help is the first step toward healing.Countless mental health professionals and patients alike point to books as an important part of the healing process for PTSD. A book dedicated to this condition can help you better understand your own experience, relate to the experiences of others, and develop strategies to cope.However, reading isn’t easy for everyone living with PTSD. In fact, the level of concentration, retention, and analysis required can make it quite difficult for some.In this case, listening to an audiobook or tackling shorter articles can help you accomplish the same goals without adding further stress to your healing journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
While the “best” therapeutic method for treating PTSD depends on the individual, certain types of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapy are most common.In CBT, patients focus on shifting the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that disrupt their daily lives. Research has shown that exposure therapy in CBT helped between 61-82% of patients in eliminating their PTSD.Psychodynamic therapy focuses on the unconscious aspects of PTSD and how past traumatic events contribute to current behavior. This type of therapy has been shown to reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms.Still, other interventions can help treat PTSD, such ascognitive processing therapy,group therapy, andeye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).
While the “best” therapeutic method for treating PTSD depends on the individual, certain types of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapy are most common.In CBT, patients focus on shifting the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that disrupt their daily lives. Research has shown that exposure therapy in CBT helped between 61-82% of patients in eliminating their PTSD.
Psychodynamic therapy focuses on the unconscious aspects of PTSD and how past traumatic events contribute to current behavior. This type of therapy has been shown to reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms.Still, other interventions can help treat PTSD, such ascognitive processing therapy,group therapy, andeye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).
There’s no cure for PTSD, but it’s very treatable. To overcome or lessen the intensity of present symptoms of PTSD, most people must confront, process, and integrate the traumatic experiences of their past. To do this, psychotherapy and/or medication are highly recommended. Keep in mind that it can take time and resources to find the treatment that’s right for you, but getting help is the first step toward healing.
Countless mental health professionals and patients alike point to books as an important part of the healing process for PTSD. A book dedicated to this condition can help you better understand your own experience, relate to the experiences of others, and develop strategies to cope.However, reading isn’t easy for everyone living with PTSD. In fact, the level of concentration, retention, and analysis required can make it quite difficult for some.In this case, listening to an audiobook or tackling shorter articles can help you accomplish the same goals without adding further stress to your healing journey.
Countless mental health professionals and patients alike point to books as an important part of the healing process for PTSD. A book dedicated to this condition can help you better understand your own experience, relate to the experiences of others, and develop strategies to cope.
However, reading isn’t easy for everyone living with PTSD. In fact, the level of concentration, retention, and analysis required can make it quite difficult for some.In this case, listening to an audiobook or tackling shorter articles can help you accomplish the same goals without adding further stress to your healing journey.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 15 years of experience working with clients who struggle with mental health issues,Mary K. Tatumunderstands the importance of finding quality resources and techniques that work for each person. Not everyone will have the same kind of healing journey, therefore having lots of options to choose from is vitally important in creating an emotionally healthy lifestyle.
5 SourcesVerywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.American Psychological Association.Trauma.American Psychological Association.PTSD treatments.Watkins LE, Sprang KR, Rothbaum BO.Treating PTSD: A Review of Evidence-Based Psychotherapy Interventions.Front Behav Neurosci.2018 Nov 2;12:258. doi:10.3389/fnbeh.2018.00258Paintain E, Cassidy S.First-line therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder: A systematic review of cognitive behavioural therapy and psychodynamic approaches.Couns Psychother Res.2018 Sep;18(3):237-250. doi:10.1002/capr.12174Qureshi SU, Long ME, Bradshaw MR, et al.Does PTSD impair cognition beyond the effect of trauma?.J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci. 2011;23(1):16–28. doi:10.1176/jnp.23.1.jnp16
5 Sources
Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.American Psychological Association.Trauma.American Psychological Association.PTSD treatments.Watkins LE, Sprang KR, Rothbaum BO.Treating PTSD: A Review of Evidence-Based Psychotherapy Interventions.Front Behav Neurosci.2018 Nov 2;12:258. doi:10.3389/fnbeh.2018.00258Paintain E, Cassidy S.First-line therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder: A systematic review of cognitive behavioural therapy and psychodynamic approaches.Couns Psychother Res.2018 Sep;18(3):237-250. doi:10.1002/capr.12174Qureshi SU, Long ME, Bradshaw MR, et al.Does PTSD impair cognition beyond the effect of trauma?.J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci. 2011;23(1):16–28. doi:10.1176/jnp.23.1.jnp16
Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
American Psychological Association.Trauma.American Psychological Association.PTSD treatments.Watkins LE, Sprang KR, Rothbaum BO.Treating PTSD: A Review of Evidence-Based Psychotherapy Interventions.Front Behav Neurosci.2018 Nov 2;12:258. doi:10.3389/fnbeh.2018.00258Paintain E, Cassidy S.First-line therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder: A systematic review of cognitive behavioural therapy and psychodynamic approaches.Couns Psychother Res.2018 Sep;18(3):237-250. doi:10.1002/capr.12174Qureshi SU, Long ME, Bradshaw MR, et al.Does PTSD impair cognition beyond the effect of trauma?.J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci. 2011;23(1):16–28. doi:10.1176/jnp.23.1.jnp16
American Psychological Association.Trauma.
American Psychological Association.PTSD treatments.
Watkins LE, Sprang KR, Rothbaum BO.Treating PTSD: A Review of Evidence-Based Psychotherapy Interventions.Front Behav Neurosci.2018 Nov 2;12:258. doi:10.3389/fnbeh.2018.00258
Paintain E, Cassidy S.First-line therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder: A systematic review of cognitive behavioural therapy and psychodynamic approaches.Couns Psychother Res.2018 Sep;18(3):237-250. doi:10.1002/capr.12174
Qureshi SU, Long ME, Bradshaw MR, et al.Does PTSD impair cognition beyond the effect of trauma?.J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci. 2011;23(1):16–28. doi:10.1176/jnp.23.1.jnp16
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