Books that Helped Through Dark and Depressing Times

Dealing with dark and depressing times can be immensely challenging. Reading certain books can provide comfort, guidance, and even healing during tough periods. Here are some books and authors that have made a significant impact on individuals facing depression and other harrowing situations.

Richard Carlson's Don't Sweat the Small Stuff

Don't Sweat the Small Stuff, by Richard Carlson, is one of the first books that helped me navigate through difficult times. This book taught me to evaluate the significance of events in the grand scheme of my life. When facing an event that shakes my world, I now ask myself, 'Will this event affect who I am or my plans for the next two weeks, months, or years?' My initial instinct is typically to say, 'No!' but it pushes me to re-evaluate my priorities and the true impact of the situation.

Anita Moorjani's Dying to Be Me

Dying to Be Me, written by Anita Moorjani, is a powerful account of someone who had a near-death experience (NDE) and was miraculously cured of stage 4 cancer within weeks. Her book delves into life, death, love, and fear, offering profound insights that can truly change one's perspective on these fundamental aspects of human existence.

Miraculous Self-Help and Literary Therapy

There are many self-help books out there, and while I have read numerous titles and even listened to many audiobooks, not all of them offer the same level of comfort and transformation. Despite that, self-help literature can be incredibly beneficial. For instance, How to Stop Worrying and Start Living by Dale Carnegie helped me manage anxiety when I was worried about the looming threat of World War III, as depicted in the movie The Prophecies of Nostradamus. The Gulf War was a catalyst for my anxiety, and the book provided practical steps to alleviate it.

John Kirwin's All Blacks Don't Cry

All Blacks Don't Cry by former All Black, John Kirwin, is a poignant account of personal struggle with depression. Kirwin's story is not just about his days playing rugby but also about his journey to overcome the mental health challenges he faced. His book is a valuable resource for anyone dealing with depression, offering a relatable narrative and strategies for coping.

Seeking Guidance in the Bible

For those who find solace in religious texts, the Bible is a treasure trove of stories and wisdom from individuals who have faced tough times. Downloading the YouVersion Bible App and adding multiple versions such as the New International Version (NIV), New King James Version (NKJ), and New Living Translation (NLT) can provide diverse perspectives and deeper insights into dealing with depression. Focusing on relevant verses can offer specific guidance and comfort during trying periods.

Reading these books and engaging with their teachings can be a profound form of literary therapy, offering comfort, guidance, and hope during times of darkness. Whether you are reading about near-death experiences, personal struggles, or spiritual teachings, the right book can make all the difference in navigating through challenging times.

Keywords: depression, self-help books, literary therapy