Optimistic reading about mental health

March 23, 2022 11:50 AM

I would like to read stories about people who have had life-long difficulties with their mental health and who have subsequently found a way to live happy, emotionally healthy lives.

I don't mind if the stories are real or fictional. I'm hoping to read stories that primarily reflect a shift in their mental health rather than a shift in their circumstances. I am sure that improvements in peoples circumstances may be a part of these stories, but I hope that you understand the distinction that I'm trying to draw.

posted by mnfn to Health & Fitness (5 answers total)

Best answer: Both Mark Vonnegut (Kurt Vonnegut's son) and Janet Frame have written memoirs about their experiences with mental illness. Both were hospitalized and diagnosed with schizophrenia, although I think Frame said that what she actually had was depression. Both went on to achieve career success and, as far as I can tell, a considerable level of stability and happiness. I absolutely love Frame's writing. I do think in both these cases there was actual improvement in their mental health.
posted by BibiRose at 12:26 PM on March 23, 2022 [1 favorite]

The Happiness Trap is a good one for this. Also 10% Happier.
posted by bookworm4125 at 1:41 PM on March 23, 2022 [1 favorite]

Marsha Linehan’s “Building a Life Worth Living” talks about overcoming her own mental health issues to create DBT therapy and help others.
posted by vanitas at 1:51 PM on March 23, 2022

I wonder if the memoirs “Wild” or “Eat A Peach” might work for you. I enjoyed them both.
posted by gooch at 1:59 PM on March 23, 2022 [1 favorite]

I have to admit it's on my 'to read' list so I can't vouch directly for it but Matt Haig's Reasons to Stay Alive might fit the bill.
posted by penguin pie at 4:42 PM on March 23, 2022