Recs if you like How to Keep House While Drowning...

this list spans from self help books that are actually helpful to in depth theories about healing. you would probably find quite a few of these books on your therapist’s bookshelf. maybe you are looking for deeper healing. maybe you are a therapist looking for your next read. welcome :)

Books on how to take care of yourself, your stuff, and your space.

Whether you know what the book is about or not, some titles hit like a punch to the gut.

Glow up, girl 💅🏻

Why is it considered "personal/professional development" when men read & write these types of books, but "self help" if a woman is reading or writing it?

Actualized, confident, and educated women are less controllable, so they shame us for seeking to better ourselves in an attempt to discourage our growth and strength. I say screw that. Become ungovernable.

Personal and professional development books (including personal finance) by women authors. Suggestions welcome.

nonfiction that feels like going to therapy (without the copay)

These are all nonfiction books who aim for mental and productive improvement. (Work in progress)

Neurodivergent-affirming parenting books, whether that be books that touch on parenting and house-keeping in neurodivergent friendly ways, or books with tips to parent neurodivergent children and teens. I've also included books that may help discuss these topics with children, such as picture books or "guides" aimed at middle school or teens. I am not a parent- any suggestions are welcome, I'm a neurodivergent librarian and have based this off of my knowledge from those experiences and backgrounds.

there's a LOT of garbage self-help out there (see the podcast called if books could kill), but here are some ones that I found helpful for for me! as always, take it with a grain of salt and do what works best for you.

I pay for therapy so you don’t have to. Though some of these may convince you to start.

Long term relationships and the immediate cope, rediscovering yourself and its mirror, and maybe speedrunning some healing only to realize it will always be slow

Books with helpful/realistic tips for neurodiverse folks especially. Take what you want from this list leave what you don’t. These are all books I’ve found helpful whether it be for understanding my emotions, relating better to others or decluttering my apartment and trying to be more organized. I’d love suggestions from things that helped you- especially finances or any other areas I’m lacking here.

Non-fiction books of all different types that I'm hoping to read to get inspired and learn new things.

Whether it’s the plot, an inspirational concept, or a particularly peculiar character, something about these books left my jaw dropped and my thoughts changed forever. Some deeply disturbed me (shoutout to Earthlings), while others changed my perspective on life in a simple but profound way… So you’ve been warned, read at your own risk of having your mind blown!

Nonfiction is not in my top three favorite genres. It’s not even in my top ten. But the books in this list create an exception. I’ll always want more of whatever makes these special— storytelling, insight, a profound perspective… With more reads like these, I’m sure to become a nonfic lover in due time.

Untraditional self help books that change the way you think!

Books for surviving this capitalistic hellscape with solutions (some that address the patriarchy!!!)