Clients often ask me, “What are your favorite therapeutic book recommendations?” This is such a good question, but not easy to answer! There are so many books out there that I LOVE, and I find so much value in each of them. I couldn’t just pick one, so I made a list. I hope you find these books as helpful as I’ve found them in my own life. Here’s my top picks for the best books on eating disorders.
Brene Brown Books
Brene Brown is one of my all-time favorite authors. She knows how to get to the heart of an issue without muddying the waters. She also writes A LOT! Here are some of my favorite books that are helpful for addressing eating disorders, as well as perfectionism, self-esteem, and finding courage in hard times.
Braving the Wilderness: Explores the concept of belonging and the courage to stand alone.
I love this book because it helped me realize that feeling like an outsider is a universal experience. Brene Brown’s honest and vulnerable storytelling made me feel less alone. This book is a must-read if you’ve ever felt like you don’t quite fit in.
Dare to Lead: Focuses on leadership and vulnerability.
This book is great for anyone who wants to step into their power and make a difference. It taught me that vulnerability is not a weakness but a strength. Dare to Lead will inspire you to embrace your authentic self if you’re tired of playing small.
Daring Greatly: Discusses the importance of vulnerability and imperfection.
If you’ve ever wanted to let go of the need to be perfect, this book is for you. Daring Greatly helped me understand that embracing my flaws is the key to genuine connection and happiness.
The Gifts of Imperfection: Encourages readers to embrace their flaws and find joy in life.
This book is like a warm hug on a cold day. It reminds us that it’s okay to be imperfect and that true beauty comes from within. If you tire of striving for unrealistic standards, this book will help you find peace and acceptance.
I Thought it Was Just Me (But it Isn’t): Explores perfectionism and inadequacy.
This book was a revelation for me. It validated my experiences with perfectionism and helped me understand that I’m not alone. This book will offer comfort and support if you constantly feel like you’re not good enough.
Rising Strong: Offers a roadmap for overcoming setbacks.
This book is a beacon of hope if you’ve ever faced a major setback. Brene Brown shares her struggles and provides practical tools for rebuilding and rising stronger. It’s a powerful reminder that setbacks are growth opportunities.
The 5 Love Languages: Focuses on understanding and expressing love.
This book is a game-changer for relationships. It helped me understand my partner’s love language and express mine more effectively. Stronger relationships are essential for recovery, and this book provides a solid foundation.
The Eating Disorder Sourcebook: Provides comprehensive information about eating disorders, including causes, treatments, and prevention.
This book is a great starting point if you want a thorough understanding of eating disorders. It covers everything from the basics to advanced topics, making it a valuable resource for individuals and professionals.
8 Keys to Recovery from an Eating Disorder Workbook: Offers practical tools and exercises for individuals recovering from eating disorders.
This workbook is a hands-on companion on your recovery journey. It provides practical exercises and strategies to help you develop coping mechanisms and build resilience.
Sick Enough: Discusses the medical complications of eating disorders.
This book is a wake-up call about the serious health risks associated with eating disorders. It’s essential reading for anyone struggling with an eating disorder or supporting someone who is.
What to do When You Worry Too Much: A children’s book about anxiety
While written for children, this book offers valuable insights into anxiety management techniques. It’s a gentle and approachable way to learn about coping strategies.
Eating in the Light of the Moon: Explores women’s relationship with food and body image through storytelling and myth.
This book offers a fresh perspective on women’s relationship with food. By delving into myths and stories, it helps readers connect with their bodies on a deeper level.
The Body Keeps the Score: Discusses the impact of trauma on the body and mind.
If trauma is part of your story, this book can provide valuable insights into how it affects your body and mind. It offers hope and guidance for healing.
This book is a wake-up call about the serious health risks associated with eating disorders. It’s essential reading for anyone struggling with an eating disorder or supporting someone who is.
Unbearable Lightness: A memoir about loss and gain.
This memoir is a powerful and inspiring story of resilience. It offers hope and encouragement to anyone facing challenges, including those struggling with eating disorders.
The Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills Workbook: Provides practical tools for managing emotions and improving relationships.
This workbook is a valuable tool for learning DBT skills, which can be helpful for managing emotions and improving relationships.
The Whole Brain Child: Focuses on child development and parenting.
While not specifically about eating disorders, this book offers valuable insights into child development and parenting. It can be helpful for parents supporting a child struggling with an eating disorder.
Skills-based Learning for Caring for a Loved One with an Eating Disorder: Offers guidance for family and friends supporting someone with an eating disorder.
This book provides essential information and support for caregivers of individuals with eating disorders. It offers practical guidance and strategies for helping loved ones on their recovery journey.
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These are my book suggestions for treating eating disorders
What do you think? Let me know if these picks resonate with you.