Health & Wellbeing Books

Book SynopsisMany of our significant relationships are based not on trust, respect and growth but on an unconscious compulsion to deny our own problems, flaws and fears. We see the consequences at home and at work, where we repeat the same mistakes and act out familiar patterns of behaviour with our partners, friends and colleagues in ways that leave us stressed and unhappy. In 'Being with Others', psychotherapist and business psychologist Nelisha Wickremasinghe explores how it is impossible to build relationships based on openness, trust and respect when our brains and bodies are in threat. Following on from her acclaimed book Beyond Threat she unravels why so many of us are often in threat, and how we can overcome these feelings to find freedom, authenticity and forgiveness in our relationships. In Being with Others we learn how: * We are cursed by our ability to think and remember, and by the dictates of culture, family and own conflicted characters. ​* Unconsciously, we cast ‘spells’ – in the form of psychological defences – to try to rid ourselves of these curses.​ * Our most trusted spell is the belief that magical ‘Others’ – partners, children, celebrities, gurus or gods – can heal, protect and save us ​* Spells don’t work… and how we can free ourselves from our curses. 'Being with Others' shows us how to recognise our curses, cast off the spells and use four different Perception Practices to wake up to the scintillations of insight that can deepen our relationships. It is an invitation to reclaim our imagination, intuition and bodies from the grip of the powerful emotions of our threat brain. It is a book for all of us who want to grow richer relationships with others and our own selves. ​Table of ContentsPart One: Curses Introduction Curses Blessings The spell of the Big O Submission Doubt Staying curious Reading 1. Curses, emotions and threat brain The consequences of an over-active threat brain Behaviour starts in the body 2. The curse of consciousness Self-reflection Worry and rumination Distraction and obliteration Beyond consciousness 3. The curse of memory Our vigilant brain Memory and the unconscious Memory and consciousness Memory and learning 4. The curse of character Nature, nurture and calling Dependency and shame 5. The curse of the family Relational dances Disconfirmation Double binds Collusion Parental projection Affect, power and meaning From the family to the cultural dance 6. The curse of culture Culture as collective habits Gendered beliefs Rationalism and Descartes’ error Individualism and the demise of context Reflections on Part One Venturing forth Part Two: Spells Introduction The neurobiology of spells The Big Os To submit or to dominate? The ingredients of a spell Compassionate awareness 1. Lovers The parental imago The misinterpretation of emotion Projection - meeting our unconscious in romantic love 2. Children Reproduction – a creative, transcendental act? Thy mother’s glass – parental projection revisited Children as symbols of lost innocence The construction of childhood Children and the cultural curse Big O love and overparenting Disinterested love 3. Charismatics What is charisma? Charismatics as transference objects Charismatics and alienation Charismatics and the cultural curse Charismatics and toxic drive 4. Groups The impulse to sociability Destructive affiliation Collective narcissism Herds Hordes Brilliant following 5. Imaginals Belief as subjective reality Fantasies Introjection The Inner Critic Reflections on Part Two Part Three: Scintillations 1. Freedom Utopia – freedom from Re-orientating – freedom with Scintillations and the growth of consciousness 2. Perception Practices Practice One: Returning to centre Practice Two: Receptivity – noticing our scintillations Practice Three: Hermeneutic inquiry Practice Four: The inward turn 3. Being with others Self-creating Indifference Beyond thou Epilogue Coda Bibliography Glossary Index

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Book SynopsisLessons Life Has Taught Me is a collection of stories and experiences from different parts of the globe exploring life’s complexities – its highs and lows. Each of the eighteen contributors shares their golden thread stories as they head down a path of deep reflection, to inspire others and start conversations on taking control of the present and looking forward to a brighter future. The contributors are: Adesola Orimalade, Fatima Alimohamed, Kevin Tong, Aysha Iqbal, Lara Rogers, Idowu Adebayo Thompson, Adaeze Oreh, Junjuan He, Nina Bressler, Amelia Samai-Nicome, Shervonne Johnson, Susana Ecclestone, Natasha Preville, Minal Srivastava, Natalie Heilling, Geri Maroney, Christopher Weguelin, and Gabrielle Botelho.Trade Review“Fascinating stories of adaptation and resilience. A window into our complex, rich world. ... Rewarding reading.” - Ian Gregory Strachan, Associate Professor of English at The College of The Bahamas; Playwright; Poet; Novelist

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Book SynopsisJessica returns home after four years in hospital to a world changed beyond recognition.Everyone has moved on, but her battle with the M.E. Monster is far from over.Number 1 Amazon bestseller.

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Book SynopsisAfter twelve years of being trapped in a world of one room by the M.E. Monster, Jessica's dreams start to come true. She's pregnant! But Jessica has to adjust to being a disabled mum in an inaccessible world and face the critics who doubt her abilities.

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Book Synopsis¿Cómo mantener una amistad intacta cuando el Alzheimer se va llevando consigo las bases del lenguaje, la memoria y las experiencias compartidas?La narradora visita casi diariamente a ML., con quien compartió una estrecha amistad y ahora padece mal de Alzheimer. A partir de esos encuentros y los fragmentos de memoria de ML. va construyendo un relato poderosamente conmovedor sobre la desarticulación de una mente que progresivamente va borrando todo de una manera peculiar.Un intento, a través de la escritura, de “hacer durar una relación que continúa pese a la ruina, que subsiste aunque apenas queden palabras”. “¿Cómo dice yo el que no recuerda…?”, se pregunta la narradora frente a esa mujer que le muestra la casa como si la visitara por primera vez o que es incapaz de decir que ha sufrido un mareo, pero puede traducir al inglés perfectamente un mensaje donde se dice que ella ha sufrido un mareo.Pasajes de un pasado y un presente compartidos que se transforman en ficción frente a un olvido que no puede contradecirlos. Un libro que opone al derrumbe una prosa precisa y vital y la sensibilidad única de una de las mejores escritoras latinoamericanas.In brief, sharply drawn moments, Sylvia Molloy’s Dislocations records the gradual loss of a beloved friend, M.L., a disappearance in ways expected (forgotten names, forgotten moments) and painfully surprising (the reversion to a formal, proper Spanish from their previous shared vernacular). There are occasions of wonder, too—M.L. can no longer find the words to say she is dizzy, but can translate that message from Spanish to English, when it's passed along by a friend.This loss holds Molloy’s sense of herself too—the person she is in relation to M.L. fades as her friend’s memory does. But the writer remains: 'I’m not writing to patch up holes and make people (or myself) think that there’s nothing to see here, but rather to bear witness to unintelligibilities and breaches and silences. That is my continuity, that of the scribe.'How do you keep a friendship intact, when Alzheimer's has stolen the common ground of language, memory, and experience, that unites you?In brief, sharply drawn moments, Sylvia Molloy’s Dislocations records the gradual loss of a beloved friend, M.L., a disappearance in ways expected (forgotten names, forgotten moments) and painfully surprising (the reversion to a formal, proper Spanish from their previous shared vernacular). There are occasions of wonder, too—M.L. can no longer find the words to say she is dizzy, but can translate that message from Spanish to English, when it's passed along by a friend. This loss holds Molloy’s sense of herself too—the person she is in relation to M.L. fades as her friend’s memory does. But the writer remains: 'I’m not writing to patch up holes and make people (or myself) think that there’s nothing to see here, but rather to bear witness to unintelligibilities and breaches and silences. That is my continuity, that of the scribe.'Trade Review"Gleaming . . . A graceful study of memory, identity, and relationships, this is one to cherish." —Publishers Weekly, starred review"A masterclass in writing, with a brevity and clarity which is both rare and welcome, and firmly situates Molloy as an outstanding talent." —The Skinny

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Book Synopsis'There are many guides to good writing but none as valuable as this.' Oliver Kamm, author and columnist for The TimesCreative writing can enhance wellbeing, which can enhance creative writing, which can enhance wellbeing ... Become a better writer with over 100 inspiring prompts, insights and exercises specially devised by an award-winning author and creative writing teacher. Discover how the practice of creative writing - being expressive, exploring ideas, crafting words, shaping stories - can also deepen your appreciation of life.Trade ReviewFew writers can share what they know like Elise Valmorbida, and even fewer teachers can write like her. But her greatest talent is her belief in other people's creative potential, and in the potential for creativity to bring happiness. Relevant to both seasoned writers and newbies alike. * John-Paul Flintoff, author of How To Change the World *Beautiful, clear, wide-reaching and hugely generous to readers. * Bryony Lavery, award-winning playwright, author of Frozen *There are many guides to good writing but none as valuable as this. In The Happy Writing Book, Elise Valmorbida... explains with acute insight how to convey your thoughts and ideas to the distant reader, while wearing very lightly her expertise in literary criticism. The result is both a stylistic revelation and a pleasure to read. * Oliver Kamm, author and columnist *Insightful, inspiring and brimming with useful tips, it's the friendliest guide you'll find to being a writer. Elise Valmorbida shows that the writing process, like the reading process, has all sorts of desirable side effects. * Ella Berthoud and Susan Elderkin, authors of The Novel Cure: An A-Z of Literary Remedies *Elise Valmorbida's teaching is life-affirming. She imparts information in a way that is accessible and vibrant. She takes the fear out of writing, and inspires students to discover their own voice. I was already writing when I did a course with Elise, yet I discovered new tones of voice that surprised and delighted me. The Happy Writing Book makes Elise's gifts as a teacher available to all. * Daniela F. Sieff, anthropologist and author of Understanding and Healing Emotional Trauma *Most provocative and insightful. A keen distillation of years' worth of experience, imagination and wisdom - and a delight to read - which will stay with me and keep provoking me. * Warren Coleman, co-writer and co-director of Happy Feet *Elise has been a wonderful writing tutor for Arvon for many years. We know we can rely on her to give our writers the right balance of thoughtful insight and supportive encouragement. This book encapsulates that teaching experience and wisdom. Sure to leave you a Happy Writer. * George Palmer, Director of Communications, Arvon *

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Book SynopsisMind & Bowl is a simple, inspiring guide to mindful eating and cooking, inviting you to see eating and cooking as a tool for self-care, creativity and an intimate relationship with the earth. Meditation teacher and retreat host Joey Hulin inspires you to explore your relationship with food as a mindfulness practice, alongside offering simple, colourful, 'bowl food' recipes for cooking at home. Reconnect with the nourishing power of food and discover simple recipes that will bring joy to every meal."Mind & Bowl offers a curious and compassionate exploration of mindfulness in general, and mindful eating in particular. Joey shares insight, knowledge and humour alongside a selection of tasty, simple-to-prepare and inviting bowl-based recipes. The first section of my copy is well-thumbed, with much underlined; the second recipe section is smattered with dollops of ingredients from delightful cooking with my children. This is a book you will come back to time and again for its humble words and beautiful recipes" - Tia Tamblyn, Breakfast and Beyond Podcast"Through this uniquely powerful and beautifully presented book, Mind & Bowl, Joey Hulin gently yet effectively awakens all our senses to the importance of eating and cooking more mindfully. As she so eloquently describes, 'eating can become habitual and unconscious to the extent that we often barely taste the food we eat, let alone really enjoy it.' Through each chapter of this culinary manual and journey, we are encouraged to pay closer attention to our relationship with food, in turn, understanding ourselves and our eating habits better, with a view to develop healthier practices. Not only will you make better choices, but once you have experienced this book's deeper wisdom, you will develop a greater appreciation for every ingredient, every forkful, and every meal!" Dr Samineh ShaheemTrade ReviewMind & Bowl offers a curious and compassionate exploration of mindfulness in general, and mindful eating in particular. Joey shares insight, knowledge and humour alongside a selection of tasty, simple-to-prepare and inviting bowl-based recipes. The first section of my copy is well-thumbed, with much underlined; the second recipe section is smattered with dollops of ingredients from delightful cooking with my children. This is a book you will come back to time and again for its humble words and beautiful recipes -- Tia Tamblyn, Breakfast and Beyond PodcastThrough this uniquely powerful and beautifully presented book, Mind & Bowl, Joey Hulin gently yet effectively awakens all our senses to the importance of eating and cooking more mindfully. As she so eloquently describes, 'eating can become habitual and unconscious to the extent that we often barely taste the food we eat, let alone really enjoy it.' Through each chapter of this culinary manual and journey, we are encouraged to pay closer attention to our relationship with food, in turn, understanding ourselves and our eating habits better, with a view to develop healthier practices. Not only will you make better choices, but once you have experienced this book's deeper wisdom, you will develop a greater appreciation for every ingredient, every forkful, and every meal! -- Dr Samineh Shaheem"Mind & Bowl offers a curious and compassionate exploration of mindfulness in general, and mindful eating in particular. Joey shares insight, knowledge and humour alongside a selection of tasty, simple-to-prepare and inviting bowl-based recipes. The first section of my copy is well-thumbed, with much underlined; the second recipe section is smattered with dollops of ingredients from delightful cooking with my children. This is a book you will come back to time and again for its humble words and beautiful recipes" * Tia Tamblyn, Breakfast and Beyond Podcast *"Through this uniquely powerful and beautifully presented book, Mind & Bowl, Joey Hulin gently yet effectively awakens all our senses to the importance of eating and cooking more mindfully. As she so eloquently describes, 'eating can become habitual and unconscious to the extent that we often barely taste the food we eat, let alone really enjoy it.' Through each chapter of this culinary manual and journey, we are encouraged to pay closer attention to our relationship with food, in turn, understanding ourselves and our eating habits better, with a view to develop healthier practices. Not only will you make better choices, but once you have experienced this book's deeper wisdom, you will develop a greater appreciation for every ingredient, every forkful, and every meal!" * Dr Samineh Shaheem *

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Book SynopsisA sensitive and thoughtful book which gives the opportunity to those who have experienced the loss of a baby to share their story. The hope is that it will help others who have also suffered the same unimaginable loss.

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Book SynopsisIn 50 Years of Hard Road, Nick Charles MBE - the first person to be honoured by the Queen 'for services to people with alcohol problems' - details his time in the abyss of alcohol addiction; a period that despatched relationships, his health, his career, and so much more.

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Book SynopsisThis book looks at a different strategies for managing persistent pain, including the benefits of mindfulness meditation, overcoming a fear of exercise, and ways to improve sleep. It uses principles from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) which has been established as a highly effective therapeutic approach in the management of chronic pain.

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Book SynopsisIn 50 Years of Hard Road, Nick Charles - the first person to be honoured by the Queen 'for services to people with alcohol problems' - details his time in the abyss of alcohol addiction; a period that despatched relationships, his health, his career, and so much more.

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Book SynopsisA wellbeing book athletes, coaches, and administrators. Filled with real-world examples, findings from the latest research, and life stories from top athletes.

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Book SynopsisAll In Your Head is about what happens when your doctor doesn't believe that you're ill. When they think you are imagining a serious ailment, or worse, faking it.

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Book SynopsisHow to manage the mental side of a cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatment through effective, easy-to-use techniques.

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Book SynopsisKids will go bonkers about this book, where each page is filled with simple bite-size text explaining what amazing machines our bodies are! There are plenty of gross bits brought to life by brilliant illustrations that kids will find both hilarious and informative! Discover all about the powerful brain, and how it?s our very own mission control. Did you know the largest muscle in your body is your butt, and the hardest worker is your heart? Our busy nervous system sends and receives messages all around our bodies in super-fast time. Find out how our amazing bodies fight off nasty viruses. What makes for smelly toots and why do we burp? We?ll show you! It?s young science at its best! Great fun to read and designed to be an easy way to learn. Awesome illustrations and an engaging question and answer format introduces kids to the muscular, skeletal, respiratory, circulatory, digestive and nervous systems. Appeals to even the most reluctant of readers and makes learning great fun.

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Book SynopsisCurrent statistics suggest that between one in seven and one in eight women will develop breast cancer at some point in their lives. Being diagnosed with breast cancer can leave you feeling anxious and depressed, fearful of the treatment to come and concerned about your mortality. The treatment itself can have a significant impact on your wellbeing as you are faced with marked changes in your physical appearance, sense of self and energy levels. There is lots of information available regarding cancer and its treatment, but little to help you cope with the emotional fall out. There are some excellent support services available but access to high quality evidence-based psychological interventions to help you cope is limited. This self-help book is the first of its kind: written by a highly experienced clinical psychologist, who has herself gone through the devastating impact of breast cancer, drawing from the evidence-based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) approach to provide you with essential coping skills. This book takes you through what your journey may look like through diagnosis, treatment and recovery, and explains the ACT skills that can help you to cope with the emotional impact of this disease and its treatment. The ACT approach enables you to respond differently to the painful thoughts and feelings that will arise during your cancer journey. Rather than fighting with them, the skills in this book help you to acknowledge and step back from your difficult thoughts and feelings so that you can focus on living your life in a way that will positively impact your physical and emotional wellbeing.Trade ReviewIn this book, a clinical psychologist who is also a breast cancer survivor describes the cancer journey and adds evidence-based psychological techniques to help us understand, explore and deal with the various emotions we might experience, written in a way that that you can select the approach that best fits with your personal experience and priorities. Trisha Greenhalgh, Doctor and Breast Cancer Survivor, Oxford UKTable of ContentsForeword: Sarah Swan A Unique Perspective: Penelope Cream Acknowledgements Chapter 1: Introduction Chapter 2: Diagnosis Chapter 3: Telling People Chapter 4: Surgery Chapter 5: Treatment Chapter 6: Body Image Chapter 7: Living in the Present Chapter 8: Conclusion Epilogue Appendix I: Checklist of Skills Appendix II: Summary Worksheet Appendix III: Choice Point Worksheet References Glossary of Terms

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Book SynopsisGiving birth is often compared to a marathon, a long journey that requires grit, endurance, pacing and patience, pain management and motivation to stay on track. Despite the wealth of information that is available, women and their birth partner don’t always feel prepared for the diversions that could come up on the maternity journey. Now imagine how sport psychology could help you? Dr Carla Meijen explains how pregnant women can use mental strategies commonly adopted by sports people to help focus on their strengths to see the childbirth experience as a positive challenge, not a threat. Dr Meijen outlines the basic principles of sport and endurance psychology and shows how these principles can be applied to the pregnancy, birth, and post-partum experience. You will learn what approaching this experience as a positive challenge could look like, by drawing on and adding to what you already have in your mental skills toolbox, potentially without even knowing it. Psychological strategies covered in the book include setting and adapting goals, imagery, self talk, breathing and mindfulness based strategies, engaging your social support network, as well as focus strategies such as routines. In the book Carla draws from interviews with Olympians, world champions, personal trainers, as well as non-competitive exercisers, to give an insight how women from a wide range of backgrounds have benefitted from sport psychology during labour. You don’t need to be a champion athlete or be involved in competitive sport to use the many benefits of sport psychology. Pregnancy and the postpartum period can be a rollercoaster and this book is aimed at helping you develop and learn about mental strategies to empower yourself during the maternity journey and beyond.Table of ContentsReady, steady…. Sport psychology and your maternity journey Seeing the maternity journey as a positive challenge, not a threat Checking in with your emotions Birth plan overboard! Goal-setting and goal-revision ‘I could imagine the baby descending down the birth canal’: Imagery as a strategy for labour and beyond ‘I got this’: Self-talk as a strategy in your toolkit The power of the breath: Breathing and mindfulness-based strategies Focus: Being in the moment and letting go of the uncontrollables The team behind the team: Engaging your support network Bringing it home: The post-partum period References and Further Reading

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Book SynopsisIs there something holding you back from being at your best in your sport? You might be struggling with nerves and anxiety, confidence, motivation, or maybe facing a setback? Perhaps you have some strategies that work in the short-term, but the effects wear off and you are left in the same place as you were before. It's time for a new approach. One that challenges you to think differently, moving you towards achieving the things you desire most in sport and in life. Based on the scientifically proven techniques from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Drop the Struggle takes a radically new look at the mental side of reaching your potential in sport. Written for athletes, coaches and anyone wanting to achieve more, it turns sports psychology on its head, providing a practical kitbag of ways to succeed. This book will teach you a sustainable way of dealing with difficult thoughts, managing your emotions and harnessing them to help you perform to the best of your ability.Table of ContentsIntroduction Part I - Developing Your Skills Chapter 1 - Your Thinking and Observing Mind Chapter 2 - Play in the Now Chapter 3 - Drop the Struggle With Your Thoughts Chapter 4 - Accept Being Uncomfortable Chapter 5 - Do What Matters Part II - Applying Your Training Chapter 6 - The Confidence Choice Chapter 7 - Create the Energy to Succeed Chapter 8 - Embrace Setbacks and Failure Chapter 9 - The Onward Journey

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Book SynopsisTrauma is everywhere, from relatively simple car accidents all the way through to childhood neglect and abuse, or devastating combat experiences. These events have specific emotional and behavioural effects on a person. Accessing good quality professional support with the aftereffects of trauma can be a lottery and people are often left wondering what on earth is happening to their mind. Statutory services can be underfunded and have long waiting lists. Private services can be very costly, outside of many people’s budgets. So where can you get good quality, evidence-based advice to help yourself? This self-help book is the first of its kind: written by a highly experienced Clinical Psychologist, who has experienced significant trauma in her own life. Drawing on a range of therapeutic approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) among others, this book helps you to understand what is happening to you in the aftermath of trauma and how to cope with these impacts. The approaches used in this book enable you to respond differently to the painful thoughts and feelings you have, and to recognise when your natural responses may be preventing you from moving forward towards the life you want to live. You will gain an understanding of how trauma works, enabling you to respond to yourself more compassionately, and you will learn tried and tested skills to cope well, moving from mere surviving, to thriving.Table of ContentsPart One What Do We Mean by “Trauma”? My Story Types of Trauma Impact of Trauma Added Complexity Trauma and the Brain Trauma and the Body Part Two The Healing Journey Helpful vs Unhelpful Coping Resources for Healing Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Mindfulness Grounding/Getting Present Dealing with Thoughts Valued Living and Thriving Conclusions and Further Help Appendices: Worksheets and Questionnaires

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Book SynopsisA solitary figure walks along ancient pathways, between slender trees, across open hills. As the earth offers up support and reassurance, they walk through uncertainty towards an understanding that they we are not alone, but part of the fabric of the world. With evocative photography and artwork, Path is a contemplative journey written in poetic prose that embodies the steady rhythms and joy of walking, and captures our reciprocal relationship with the land.

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Book SynopsisGail Muller, a chronic pain sufferer, was told to give up hope of a recovery and accept that she would be in a wheelchair by 40. She refused. She eventually found a cure and went on to walk the legendary Appalachian Trail. But what is hope? And why do we need it now more than ever? In this book, Gail shares her own story of survival and what she has learnt: that hope is not just a platitude, it s a powerful and energising catalyst towards better days. A light in the dark. But sometimes hope can fade? ?and if that happens, how do we get it back? In Do Hope you will: Meet the Three Musketeers: resilience, perseverance and self-worth Develop tools to feel reinvigorated and realigned Discover what really makes you happy Appreciate how helping others can lift you too. For those times when we feel adrift, challenged or face adversity, Do Hope will help us keep the flame of hope alive.Trade ReviewGail has a new book out and I m so excited for her. She has a brilliant way with words and knows how to use them to entertain, inspire and empower others... If you feel like you need a boost, a companion, a light in the dark - then I point you in Gail s direction.' - Giovanna Fletcher, Sunday Times no.1 bestselling author. 'We are all capable of cultivating hope. This beautiful book serves as a reminder, and shows us how.' - Kris Hallenga, Sunday Times bestselling author, Glittering a Turd.

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Book SynopsisWhether it s your first, second or fifth baby, most of us approach childbirth with some trepidation. Yet this life-changing experience can, and should, be a positive one. Midwife Caroline Flint is one of the most inspirational figures in the world of childbirth. Over the years, she has helped hundreds of women give birth comfortably and confidently. And now she will help you. In Do Birth, you will find out: . Preparations to make if you choose to stay at home . Intuitive ways to help labour progress smoothly . How to make a hospital birth more homely . Advice on breastfeeding and the first hours, days and weeks with your newborn. Having a baby is one of life s most exciting adventures. This book will help you to embrace it.

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Book SynopsisFor anyone considering or going through Fostering for Adoption, this book gives you a detailed, personal account of the process which takes you through all the stages and prepares you to cope with the highs and lows. Fostering for Adoption is a relatively recent initiative (Children and Families Act, 2014) in the adoption legal landscape, seeking early permanence for babies and young children where adoption is most likely to be the plan for the child. This is often cited as a route to be in the best interests of the child, enabling secure attachments and stability. However, for adopters it is inherently risky, it is the adopters who take on the risk in this situation, accept the placement on a fostering basis and hope that the final outcome will be adoption. There is currently a knowledge gap on experiences of Fostering for Adoption which this book tackles. Written from an adopters’ perspective of the risks and challenges, as well as the benefits that it brings, it is perfect for those who are considering the process as well as their friends and family. A book on Fostering for Adoption can’t just focus on one story and one outcome so we’ve included case studies which cover the key experiences adopters may face when agreeing to accept a baby on a Foster to Adopt placement such as: Caring for a baby a few days after birth The paperwork, rules and fostering process The uncertainty and risk Meeting with birth parents Contact Looking after a withdrawing baby A termination of placement Written in an engaging and friendly style, this book is perfect reading for anyone looking to adopt a child and for adoption professionals seeking to understand the experience of the adopter more profoundly. Praise for Fostering for Adoption "As someone who has been through a similar journey this book resonated with me. It is honest about the ups and downs and is a great, informative book for anybody thinking of taking this route or who have family or friends that are. I can say that this book will help anyone at the beginning of their journey, to help them through the process and – start the lifetime of learning about how we can support our children." Lisa Faulkner, Author, Meant to be "Alice’s book will be a great companion to anyone considering or starting on the foster to adopt process. It is well-researched and written and doesn’t shy away from the many complexities and the considerations that adults must make in the best interests of children." Sally Donovan, Author of No Matter What, and Editor of Adoption Today "I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, I found myself laughing and getting emotional throughout. As someone who has themselves been adopted, but who is also a social worker who has now adopted a child, this book is brilliant from every angle. A must read for anyone considering Fostering for Adoption." Jo, Social Worker, Midlands “This book gives a balanced and honest view of the whole Fostering for Adoption journey. It gets to the emotions and seriousness of decisions being made about children's lives. This is an important read for any potential adopter and will be on our book lists for sure” Angi, Social Worker, Adoption Tees Valley Trade Review"As someone who has been through a similar journey this book resonated with me. It is honest about the ups and downs and is a great, informative book for anybody thinking of taking this route or who have family or friends that are. I can say that this book will help anyone at the beginning of their journey, to help them through the process and – start the lifetime of learning about how we can support our children." -- Lisa Faulkner * Author of Meant to be *"Alice’s book will be a great companion to anyone considering or starting on the foster to adopt process. It is well-researched and written and doesn’t shy away from the many complexities and the considerations that adults must make in the best interests of children." -- Sally Donovan * Author of No Matter What, and Editor of Adoption Today *"I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, I found myself laughing and getting emotional throughout. As someone who has themselves been adopted, but who is also a social worker who has now adopted a child, this book is brilliant from every angle. A must read for anyone considering Fostering for Adoption." -- Jo * Social Worker, Midlands, UK *"This book gives a balanced and honest view of the whole Fostering for Adoption journey. It gets to the emotions and seriousness of decisions being made about children's lives. This is an important read for any potential adopter and will be on our book lists for sure." -- Angi * Social Worker, Adoption Tees Valley *Table of ContentsCh 1: Introduction and background to Foster to Adopt Ch 2: Where our story begins: The first training session and Stage 1 Ch 3: Expressing our story: Stage 2, the home assessment and panel Ch 4: Who will join our story? Matching, tracking and the emotional rollercoaster Ch 5: The story continues: Being matched and more waiting Ch 6: Our story gets real: Transition and placement Ch 7: Documenting the detail of our story: The early days of and everyday life of F2A Ch 8: Retelling our story as a family of three: Preparing for panel Ch 9: Formalising our story: Applying for the Adoption Order and everyday life-in-between Ch 10: Our story can continue: Legally part of our family

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Book SynopsisA practical look at how positive psychology can transform performance at work, essential for anyone looking to both grow in their professional career and improve their well-being. It is equally appropriate for employees or for managers and leaders looking to increase performance in their teams and departments. Well-being at work should be more than just helping people feel okay. Positive psychology enables people to be more than okay and actually thrive at work. This book describes highly practical ideas and techniques that can be applied in the workplace at individual, team and organisational levels to increase positivity, boost engagement, develop strong working relationships, build purpose, enable a sense of accomplishment and grow resilience. It is packed with tools and tips to make a difference to your career, teams, organisations and daily working life, and demonstrates how ideas from positive psychology can help transform mindsets and drive the dual aims of performance and positivity. This book is an essential read for anyone looking to grow in their professional career while also improving their well-being and happiness, and for leaders who want to enable high performance at work but also want their teams to thrive and be happy. Part of the Business in Mind series.Trade ReviewIf you want to improve, inspire teams, or coach people, this is the essential resource to help you optimise performance at work using positive psychology. Sarah Alexander guides us through Martin Seligman’s PERMA model, incorporating her own experience with other theory, case examples, tips, exercises and questions to explore. It’s a well-researched and extremely practical book, which I’ve already heavily highlighted and scribbled on in readiness for me to refer to for workshops and with clients. Happy people capitalising on their superpowers drives high performance! Read this book to understand why and how! -- Suzanna Tan, Executive Coach and Author, Coaching STTransforming Performance at Work is highly practical and engaging. For any company or manager struggling with demotivated teams this is a must-read. This is equally true for any professional who wants to be at their best without burning out. Each chapter provides the invaluable pillars of transforming performance. The captivating way in which it is written makes you remember key points in your day-to-day life after just one read. It is also a great one to revisit, as the examples, the summaries, and the immediately applicable exercises, make it consistently relevant. -- Emma Claire DavisThis is a really important book, particularly in these stressful times. We spend about a third of our time at work and Sarah shows how that time should not simply be lost time, but time that makes a significant contribution to our well-being and sense of self, from which the employing organisation also benefits. Sarah pulls off a difficult trick in this book in achieving three ends: it makes great sense, is easily read and, most importantly, is eminently practical. A 'must read'! -- Myles Downey, Coach to the C-Suite, Author of ‘Effective Modern Coaching’ and ’The Enabling Manager'Sarah Alexander is on a mission to increase performance by increasing wellbeing. Her passion for the topic shines through on every page. Alexander offers readers 5 wellbeing topics for consideration. For each, she provides a scientific rationale and practical tools. -- Dr. Robert Biswas-Diener, author of Positive ProvocationTable of ContentsChapter 1: Introduction Chapter 2: Happy high performer Chapter 3: Superpowers Chapter 4: People matter Chapter 5: Finding meaning Chapter 6: Accomplishment Chapter 7: Resilience Chapter 8: Well-being in action and conclusions

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Book SynopsisEveryone has moments when the noise and activity of daily life mean it's hard to see the wood for the trees. Sometimes we get by, but sometimes we get out of balance and when negative feelings go unchecked, emotions can escalate.Created in collaboration with psychologists and Samaritans volunteers, Pathways: Your journey to emotional wellbeing provides practical and creative ways to promote positivity and help you find your own route through your problems. With pages for self-reflection as well as goal and routine setting, this book offers ways to achieve a sense of calm from anxiety, relief from low mood and decompression from stress, allowing you to reconnect with yourself and explore the difficult feelings we all experience from time to time.

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Book Synopsis'An honest and fascinating account of the journey that Tom made from discovering he was a type 2 diabetic to doing something about it. This book will change lives.' Michael Mosley, on The Sunday Time's bestseller DownsizingFrom the bestselling author of Downsizing, a guide to losing weight - and keeping it off - as well as improving health, from someone who has successfully done both, Lose Weight 4 Life outlines the programme Tom Watson followed for his own remarkable 8-stone (50kg) weight loss. Divided into 4 sections - Motivation, Movement, Measurement and Maintenance - it includes relatable examples of Tom's own, often bumpy, journey to better health, which saw him transform from someone who mindlessly hoovered up entire packets of biscuits at one go and had to rummage in the XXXL bin for exercise gear into someone who rowed the length of the UK. Packed with practical advice backed up by the latest research, Lose Weight 4 Life demonstrates that it is never too late to turn things around, even if you are someone who has failed umpteen times before.

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Book Synopsis'The only health manual you will ever need' - Dr Rangan Chatterjee'From behaviours to biology and beyond, The Health Fix enables you to personalise your way to better health by laying out your story. An enriching book that gives so much to the reader' - Giles Paley-Phillips'The Health Fix allows you to look at your health and lay out your story like nothing else out there. For many this will be a life-changing read' - Dr Rupy Aujla'Whatever health issues you want to improve, this book has your solution' - Sunetra Sarker'This unique book is exactly what people need right now for their health and wellbeing' - Atul KochharStarting with the experience of his own illness, Dr Ayan Panja, NHS GP and lifestyle medicine expert, brings a unique personalised framework to tailor targeted lifestyle-based interventions to you, with his groundbreaking new book THE HEALTH FIX. Unlike many approaches to health and wellbeing, THE HEALTH FIX focuses on the 'why' rather than just the 'what' with a toolkit:-Learn how to elegantly tighten up on the 8 factors which affect your health the most day to day-Improve your ability to control your habits-Understand the interplay between your symptoms and your biology-Experience the subtle power of "how, what and when"-Generate your own targeted lifestyle prescription -Apply the 'fixes' that are relevant only to you-Feel the difference within 8 weeksWith the rising tide of non-communicable disease such as long Covid, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal conditions and increasing mental health need, Dr Ayan blends in the science and evidence into eye-opening case studies which demonstrate how the patient story lays everything out. The unique HEALTH FIX toolkit will help you change your health for good by understanding the story of you.

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Book Synopsis'Where science-based nutrition meets easy, joyful, flavour-packed foods!' - Melissa HemsleyFrom boosting your energy levels to improving your gut health, immunity and sleep quality, Jennifer Medhurst's evidence-based approach to nutrition - distilled into 7 easy-to-follow principles - empowers you to decide what is best for your health while still giving you the freedom to eat the foods you enjoy.Part One focuses on her 7 principles:Focusing on wholefoodsBeing diverseKnowing your fatsIncluding fermented, prebiotic and probiotic foodsReducing refined carbohydratesBeing aware of liquidsEating mindfullyPart Two features 70 deliciously nourishing recipes that you will want to come back to time and again, all using ingredients available at any supermarket.So instead of taking away from your diet, learn how easy it is to feel better, all while adding more to what you eat .'Easy-to-digest nutrition advice, with compelling lifestyle tips woven throughout' - Nina Parker

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Book Synopsis'I love this book! Age really is just a number.' - Charlotte Tilbury'Gabriela is a game-changer, I cannot recommend her highly enough.' - Billie Piper'Backed by science and infused with years of experience, Gabriela's method in this book will change your life.' - Rosie Nixon, Hello!With SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLING author Gabriela Peacock, looking and feeling younger has never been so easy. Gabriela reveals the game-changing science that will help you radically influence the ageing process and transform your future.Designed to be compatible with real life, 2 Weeks to a Younger You contains realistic intermittent fasting plans - scientifically proven to be the most effective method of safely reaching a healthy weight - and plenty of practical tips. As well as weight-loss, Gabriela's advice will allow you to improve sleep, increase energy and sharpen mental clarity. With 50 delicious, healthy recipes, these easy-to-follow plans are guaranteed to deliver results.

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Book Synopsis 'Open, honest, straight talking on mental health and motherhood.' - Tik Tok's Dr Julie 'I absolutely love it - it doesn't matter who you are, what you've been through and how much you've changed - there is always room for growth'. - Ant Middleton 'This book will become your bible.' - Gaby Roslin, Virgin Radio In GROW, Sunday Times bestselling author Frankie Bridge opens up about her journey with her maternal mental health. Part narrative exploration, part first aid manual for mothers this book will discuss the hidden growing pains which take place when you become a parent.Its chapters cover the HOW TOs, WHAT IFs?, WILL Is? and WHY DOs? anxious questions all mothers ask themselves when they believe they are doing it wrong whilst also offering a brutally honest account of how hard it can be to grow a baby and raise a child whilst you are still growing into yourself.The book will combine Frankie's mental health journey into motherhood with the notes of psychologist, Maleha Khan, who will unpack the problems she experienced as she became a mother. It will also include additional guidance and parental advice from the UK's leading paediatrician Dr Ed Abrahamson.Fans of OPEN:'Brave and beautiful... a first aid manual for your mind.'- Adam Kay, bestselling author of This is Going To Hurt'Very readable. Very relatable. Intensely moving but also full of practical advice.'- Alastair Campbell

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Book Synopsis *** REVISED AND UPDATED EDITION *** 'This book is a wise investment' - Financial TimesA practical money handbook to help you spend, save and earn better.Do you need help managing your money? Are you keen to invest but not sure how? Or do you need to understand how to make your money work for you? If so, it's time to take back control of your bank balance. In this book you will learn how to:Understand and improve your credit scoreTake back control of debtSave money each monthNegotiate a better salaryBuild a pensionBuy a homeInvest and make your money work harder!This essential handbook will help debunk the financial jargon and break the money taboo. Packed with actionable tips and no-nonsense practical advice, You're Not Broke You're Pre-Rich will teach you how to make your savings work for you, how you could invest your money, why you need to understand your pension and why your financial health is just as important as your mental and physical health.This updated and market-leading manual will be your comprehensive guide to financial freedom, giving you the confidence and conviction to regain control of your bank balance and live a happier, richer life.Trade ReviewEmilie Bellet: the start-up founder bringing financial education to women. * Financial Times *'You're Not Broke, You're Pre-Rich': The Former Lehman Brothers worker on a mission to change women's relationship with their finances. * This Is Money *Pick up this money-making bible: If you need a little help understanding your attitude to money and working on, you know, making some more, you need to grab a copy. * Glamour *

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Book Synopsis***NEW EDITION WITH BONUS CHAPTER***Bringing you the record-breaking, bestselling Women Don't Owe You Pretty as a black and white modern classic.Women Don't Owe You Pretty is for anyone who wants to challenge the out-dated narratives supplied to us by the patriarchy.It will help you to embrace feminism in all its messy glory, explain that you are the love of your own life, and remind you that you owe men nothing, least of all pretty.This small edition includes a brand new chapter on "Why being heartbroken doesn't make you a shit feminist".Be prepared to heal.'An incredible mouthpiece for modern intersectional feminism.' - Glamour'A fearless book.' - Cosmopolitan'A hugely influential young woman.' - Woman's Hour'Rallying, radical and pitched perfectly for her generation.' - Evening Standard*OUT NOW Florence Given's DEBUT NOVEL, GIRLCRUSH *

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Book SynopsisMany of us are guilty of choosing to binge-watch TV after a stressful day at work rather than hitting the gym to exercise – but what if you could do both at the same time?Self-help expert and stretching guru Susan Clark has devised over 40 simple exercises you can sneakily squeeze in while in bed, at your desk, commuting, watching TV, in the bath and more. Stretching is the ultimate low-intensity exercise, with science-backed benefits including improved flexibility, toned muscles and a stronger core – and it might even increase your life expectancy. You don't need any special equipment, and just 10 minutes of 'flexercise' each day will benefit your health.Featuring charming illustrations of each stretch, as well as a bonus chapter on how to meditate to stretch your mind, this book is the perfect way to get back into fitness without even leaving your house.Table of ContentsIntroduction • Stretch in Bed • Stretch in the Bath • Stretch on the Couch • Stretch in the Kitchen • Stretch at Your Desk • Stretch in the Car • Stretch While Busy (brushing your teeth, making tea...)

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Book SynopsisSince the rise in deaths through Covid-19, there has been an increase in the need for personal, heartfelt ceremonies to celebrate the end of life. More and more people are questioning traditional ideas and realising that there are choices out there. Drawing upon her years of experience in working in the funeral industry, Sarah Chapman uniquely collates all the key information needed into a single comprehensive resource. This must-have guide will holistically support you from the moment someone dies to their funeral, while also empowering you to plan your own end-of-life care and ceremony. This step-by-step guide will take away the fear and uncertainty you may feel when faced with arranging the funeral of a loved one. It gives you back control in creating a fitting ceremony to celebrate their life, while also providing you with the tools to plan your own funeral in a way that is unique to you. It will help you to decide on the legacy you would like to leave for future generations, and you may even decide to plan your own living ceremony before you die.

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Book SynopsisAlmost half of adults in the UK suffer from chronic pain. Yet this is often unrelated to any physical injury. So why does it still hurt? Research over the last few decades shows that many of us are victims of a devilish trick of the nervous system: our brains prolong pain long after our bodies have healed from injury. This leads to hundreds of billions of pounds being spent each year on treatments that sometimes do nothing and sometimes make matters worse. Paul Biegler, a science journalist and former doctor who has been on his own pain journey, investigates the true source of chronic pain — our brain’s so-called neuroplasticity — and emerging therapies that can rewire the brain and end suffering. As he knows only too well, this doesn’t mean pain is all in a person’s head. Pain is real, but its meaning is often misunderstood. Through conversations with scientists, doctors, and people who have overcome chronic pain, Biegler shines a light on the rigorous new studies — and emotional personal stories — that are changing the way we understand and treat pain. Most importantly, he shows how to take control over persistent pain and truly heal.Trade Review‘As someone who lived with chronic pain for decades, I can’t recommend this book highly enough.’ -- Fiona Capp * The Sydney Morning Herald *‘Why Does It Still Hurt? convincingly asks us to look beyond the usual offerings for pain — painkillers, surgeries, even replacement body parts — to psychological methods that challenge how we usually respond to physical suffering. By book’s end, Biegler says it’s up to us what we do with this new arsenal of knowledge. Profound possibilities are out there for treating pain that are now impossible to ignore.’ -- Nathan Smith * The Saturday Paper *‘Paul Biegler shines a light on the way we understand and treat chronic pain. Most importantly, he shows how to take control over persistent pain and truly heal.’ * Good Reading *‘Through research and conversations with scientists, Biegler shines new light on our understanding of pain and discusses how to take control over pain and truly heal. A fascinating and important book.’ -- Jeff Popple * Canberra Weekly *‘Biegler’s book is for those who want to understand the history of pain as well as the most recent breakthroughs in treatment … This is an inherently optimistic book: the author delves deep into the positive effect that mental strategies such as hypnosis can have on pain and quality of life. Accordingly, it will be an invaluable resource for people suffering with chronic pain, and will hopefully open up alternative strategies and ultimately give readers hope. People who appreciated Karra Eloff’s The Chronic Pain Couple might find value in Why Does it Still Hurt?.’ -- Rebecca Whitehead * Books+Publishing *‘Science journalist and former doctor Paul Biegler investigates the true source of chronic pain. Having suffered himself, he needs to know why pain persists well after an injury is healed. He interviews scientists, doctors and people who have overcome chronic pain, sharing the latest studies and personal stories. Ultimately, he asks whether the brain really can change the nervous system. If the answer to that is “yes” and the result is pain, can thinking change it back again? An interesting read for anyone with chronic, ongoing pain, or anyone interested in the power of the mind.’ -- Cheryl Akle * The Weekend Australian *‘Paul Biegler does a magnificent job of drawing together science and personal stories. Biegler is a beautiful writer with a keen interest in the humans behind the statistics, but he’s also clearly deeply researched. Particular high points for me were a clear description of gate control theory − perhaps the pivotal theory for understanding pain − and a fascinating chapter on the problematic power of placebo surgery. Highly recommended for anyone interested in pain − or science in general.’ -- Liam Mannix * The Age: Examine Newsletter *‘The main takeaway from Biegler’s book is clear from its subtitle: “How the power of knowledge can overcome chronic pain”. Understanding how pain works can reduce its severity and information can empower patients to seek out treatment options. Knowledge can lead to better-quality conversations with health professionals … The pain paradigm might be shifting, but it’s up to us to accelerate it. We can only do that fully armed with facts and evidence.’ -- Peter Quarry * Australian Financial Review *Praise for The Ethical Treatment of Depression: ‘Biegler’s wonderful book sheds new light on autonomy, depression, and the moral purposes of medicine, making a strong case for preferring psychotherapeutic over drug treatments for depression. His clearly written, scientifically well-informed book is essential reading for all interested in medical ethics or mental disorders.’ -- Richard Ashcroft, professor of bioethics at University of LondonPraise for The Ethical Treatment of Depression: ‘No other book combines philosophy with so much empirical information to critique overreliance on drugs in the treatment of a mental illness. Biegler’s message is both sobering and clear. His book is a significant contribution to the philosophy of psychiatry as well as to the key role that maximising patient autonomy should play in the choice of therapies for depression.’ -- George Graham, professor of philosophy and neuroscience at Georgia State UniversityPraise for The Ethical Treatment of Depression: ‘This book is long overdue. Biegler gives a compelling analysis of the impact depression has on autonomous decision making — a factor which, he argues, has important implications for its treatment. Given how many people suffer from this debilitating disease worldwide, his insight has the potential to transform the medical, moral, and social wellbeing of a substantial portion of the world’s population. The Ethical Treatment of Depression is essential for clinicians, bioethicists, lawyers, and policy practitioners. -- Patricia Illingworth, department of philosophy and religion at College of Business Adminstration, and School of Law, Northeastern University

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Book SynopsisAn intimate glimpse inside a silent epidemic that is harming teens, and a pathway for parents to help them reclaim the restorative power of sleep. If you could protect your child from unnecessary anxiety, depression, and chronic stress, and foster a greater sense of happiness and well-being in their lives, wouldn’t you? In this book, the authors of The Happy Sleeper, the classic book on helping babies and young children develop healthy sleep habits, uncover one of the greatest threats to our teenagers’ physical and mental health: sleep deprivation. Caught in a perfect storm of omnipresent screens, academic overload, and unnecessarily early school-start times, our children are operating in a constant state of sleep debt while struggling to meet the demands of adolescence. In this essential book, Heather Turgeon and Julie Wright draw on the latest scientific research to reveal that today’s teenagers are, in fact, the most sleep-deprived population in human history. In fact, at a critical phase of development, many teens need more sleep than their younger siblings — but they’re getting drastically less. Generation Sleepless guides families in building healthy habits around sleep by: • establishing family agreements around sleep habits; • altering family practices around phones, social media, and screen time; • regaining overall equilibrium in the home; and • remaking bedtime routines Packed with years of research and in-depth reporting, Generation Sleepless is a wake-up call for parents that equips them with the right tools to start a family conversation about sleep and to ultimately regain connection with their tweens and teens.Trade Review‘Generation Sleepless is the crucial missing piece in the conversation about teen mental health. As a therapist and the mum of a teenager, I'm so grateful for every page of this book!’ -- Lori Gottlieb, New York Times bestselling author of Maybe You Should Talk To Someone‘Well-researched, skillfully written, and deeply helpful. Turgeon and Wright are cultural therapists who teach us how to help teens with the most urgent and important of lessons — how to sleep well. I recommend this book to all parents of tweens and teens.’ -- Mary Pipher, author of Reviving Ophelia‘In Generation Sleepless, Heather Turgeon and Julie Wright provide an essential guide to supporting the key nutrient for the adolescent brain: sleep. I love this book because it provides a respectful, emotionally attuned, and practical roadmap to helping teenagers get the sleep their bodies and brains so desperately need. I highly encourage everyone who parents or works with teens to read and share this much needed resource!’ -- Mona Delahooke, PhD, author of Beyond Behaviours and Brain-Body Parenting‘Grounded in a deep understanding of sleep, family dynamics, and social realities, this engaging book seamlessly and creatively integrates practical tips and tools families can use for immediate relief with ways they can work to make the systemic changes — including sleep-friendly school start times — that make healthy sleep possible.’ -- Terra Ziporyn Snider, PhD, Executive Director and co-founder of Start School Later, and co-author of The New Harvard Guide to Women’s Health‘Generation Sleepless exposes the myriad of factors that squeeze teen sleep, but more importantly, it gives us a practical framework with to-do’s for society, as well as five easy-to-deploy habits for families that really make a difference.’ -- Dr Michael Breus, author of The Power of When‘Rest is vital for developing brains … Turgeon and Wright explain the connection between sleep and mental health — and what parents can do to help.’ * PEOPLE *‘Turgeon and Wright, authors of the bestseller, The Happy Sleeper, reveal just how wrong we’ve all been about teens and sleep. Their new book discusses how to build healthy habits, advocate for change, and navigate the storm together with your teen through collaboration and communication.’ * Motherwell *Praise for The The Happy Sleeper: ‘Clear a space on your bookshelf! You’ll be consulting this friendly, research-based guide to the blessings of sleep for you and your little ones for many years to come.’ -- Adele Faber, co-author of How To Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will TalkPraise for The The Happy Sleeper: ‘An important resource for parents seeking to give their children a lifetime of quality sleep. Good sleep habits are vital to child development and overall health, and The Happy Sleeper offers real-world strategies for getting children the sleep they need.’ -- David M. Cloud, CEO of National Sleep FoundationPraise for Now Say This: ‘Instantly useable. Their practical and compassionate method gets you unstuck from difficult parenting moments and gives kids the tools to grow into responsible, emotionally savvy adults.’ -- Lori Gottlieb, LMFT, New York Times bestselling author of Maybe You Should Talk to Someone

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Book SynopsisA groundbreaking book that will expand your thinking, whether you are a trauma survivor, a clinician, someone who loves a survivor, or someone seeking to understand abuse. In Reclaim, expert forensic and clinical psychologist Dr Ahona Guha explores complex traumas, how survivors can recover and heal, and the nature of those who abuse. She shines a light on the ‘difficult’ trauma victims that society often ignores, and tackles vital questions that plague us: ‘Why are psychological abuse and coercive control so difficult to spot?’, ‘What kinds of behaviours should we see as red flags?’, and ‘Why do some people harm others, and how do we protect ourselves from them?’ In her forensic work, Dr Guha has had extensive experience with those who perpetrate harm, and she has a deep understanding of the psychological and social factors that cause people to abuse, bully, and harass others. In turn, her clinical work has led her to recognise the impacts of complex trauma, and the way our systems fail those who have been victimised. By emphasising compassion above all else, Dr Guha gives a call to action: one that will help us reclaim a safer, healthier society for everyone.Trade Review‘What drew me to this book was the fact that its author works as both a clinical and forensic psychologist. As someone with a trauma history I’m always looking for new better ways to manage its impacts. As someone with a psychology degree (the most expensive piece of paper I own) I am interested in the why behind the what when people act in ways that victimise others. I love that this book delves into something that most people conveniently ignore: sometimes a person is both victim and perpetrator … A blend of theory and case studies (composites so as not to breach confidentiality) this book would be of interest to both trauma survivors and those who work in helping professions.’ -- Schizanthus Nerd, starred review‘Powerfully, accessibly, and with a clinician’s depth of detail, Dr Guha writes directly about the violence we prefer to drape in darkness. She shows that it is only by seeking to understand its causes and consequences that we can work towards creating safer, fairer communities. I’m grateful to her for this illuminating, and urgently necessary, book.‘ -- Sarah Krasnostein, author of The Trauma Cleaner and The Believer“Reclaim gave me a better understanding of my own trauma. Huge gratitude to Dr Guha for this well-crafted book … A must-read for everyone.” -- Veronica Gorrie, author of Black and Blue‘In a world that so often turns away from the complexities of trauma and abuse, this book turns towards them … Reclaim is a game-changer.’ -- Chris Cheers, psychologist and author of The New Rulebook‘Reclaim is for victims of abuse, for their families and loved ones, but above all for anyone who wants to understand human behaviour.’ -- Mark Rubbo, Managing Director of Readings‘Reclaim is one of those books I will revisit again, whenever I need to process certain events or experiences.’ -- Dr Yumiko Kadota, author of Emotional Female‘Dr Guha provides a highly accessible work that covers a lot of ground, and is illustrated by composite case studies of her own patients, and some detail about her own experience of trauma … Reclaim is a fascinating insight into different types of trauma, survivors, abusers, institutional abuse and invites the reader to enter a full and open discussion about these issues … This book is a nuanced exploration of the nature of trauma, the people it affects, and how we might, both as individuals and as a society, reduce its harm.’ -- Cass Moriarty, author of The Promise Seed and Parting Words‘Guha’s willingness to confront this murky terrain is courageous, a clinical psychologist and forensic expert, has penned a book about trauma that is not literary, academic, or self-help: it is a clear-eyed analysis by a professionally qualified, socially engaged and intimately informed author. Guha purportedly wrote the book to redress fallacies in “a world that is beset by trauma.” … The most admirable thing [Reclaim] is its advocacy for those caught in the darkest realms of trauma’s slipstream: the least likeable among us, who act out in the most socially unacceptable ways. Guha demands we seek to understand not only traumatised sweethearts (those who invite sympathy) but also people who exhibit alienating, infuriating or frightening trauma-fuelled traits … Reclaim [pushes] back against common value judgements that less traumatised – and more privileged – people make about those living with complex trauma … by looking around soberly – and inviting us to build a “trauma-informed community” and move toward a more just future.’ -- Dr Meera Atkinson * The Conversation *‘[Reclaim] is an excellent starting point for anyone wanting clarification about the impact of trauma, with further information on where to find therapy and support.’ -- Cheryl Akle * The Australian *

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Book SynopsisMillions of us suffer from addiction, including psychiatrist and recovering alcoholic Carl Erik Fisher. But where does this centuries-old behaviour come from and how should we treat it? As a young doctor, Carl Erik Fisher came face to face with his own addiction crisis, one that nearly cost him everything. Now, in The Urge, he investigates the history of this condition; how we have struggled to define, treat, and control it; and how broader understanding and compassion could change people’s lives. The Urge is at once an eye-opening history of ideas, a riveting personal story of addiction and recovery, and a clinician’s urgent call for a more expansive, nuanced view of one of society’s most intractable challenges.Trade Review‘Carl Erik Fisher takes the reader on a vivid tour over several thousand years of multiple cycles of science, medicine, and literature, woven together by the thread of the author’s own alcohol and amphetamine addiction and treatment. It is made even more emphatic and moving because he is also a psychiatrist who treats such patients … [The Urge] is thorough and revealing … [and is] a mature view of the topic from someone with immense experience of it.’ -- David Nutt * The Guardian *‘A compelling history … Fisher, an addiction physician and a recovering addict, illustrates the “terrifying breakdown of reason” that accompanies the condition by drawing on patients’ anecdotes and on his own experience.’ * The New Yorker *‘The Urge is an insightful, thought-provoking, and beautifully written book that stands to revolutionise our understanding of one of medicine’s — and society’s — most challenging problems. Carl Erik Fisher is a masterful physician-writer who is equally attentive to the grand sweep of history and the subtleties of each individual’s experience of addiction. A remarkable achievement.’ -- Siddhartha Mukherjee, author of The Emperor of All Maladies‘The Urge is an absolutely brilliant exploration of humanity’s ever-present struggle with addiction, or what psychiatrist Carl Erik Fisher calls "the terrifying breakdown of reason". Dr Fisher’s firsthand experience, as both a doctor and a patient, gives The Urge a layer of insight that deepens its historical focus. Readers will walk away with a nuanced grasp of the high stakes of our broken medical system and the bias baked into our understanding of addiction and mental illness in general. This book is special — as edifying as it is electrifying, as meaningful as it is humane.’ -- Susannah Cahalan, author of Brain on Fire‘Carl Erik Fisher expertly weaves his own story of addiction into a comprehensive and fascinating narrative. The Urge is an engaging read that also helps us gain a fuller picture of our own nature and how society has capitalised on it to drive addiction. Even as an addiction psychiatrist and researcher, I learned a great deal from this book.’ -- Dr Judson Brewer, PhD, author of Unwinding Anxiety‘Thoughtful, moving, and wonderfully informative, Carl Erik Fisher’s The Urge arrives just in time to help us, as a nation, rethink our failed war on drugs. In telling his own story, that of a young physician wrestling with both alcohol and rehab, Dr Fisher humanises the struggles that ensnare so many of us. Addiction, this marvellous book makes clear, is confounding, seductive, and elusive. In facing it without prejudice, we can learn a lot about ourselves.’ -- Dr Mark Epstein, author of The Trauma of Everyday Life and Advice Not Given‘This is a brilliant, fascinating, important book. Combining riveting cultural history and cutting-edge neuroscience with his own searing experiences with (and recovery from) substance abuse, Carl Erik Fisher has produced a work that deserves a place alongside volumes by fellow physician-writers Oliver Sacks, Kay Redfield Jamison, Siddhartha Mukherjee, and Abraham Verghese. Full of insight and wisdom, this is a profound meditation on the nature of addiction and what it means to be human.’ -- Scott Stossel, author of My Age of Anxiety‘This thoughtful, wise, and thoroughly researched book is sure to be a crucial contribution to our understanding of addiction — a crisis that demands a deeper, more truthful conversation.’ -- Johann Hari, author of Chasing the Scream‘Carl Erik Fisher’s The Urge is the best-written and most incisive book I’ve read on the history of addiction. In the midst of an overdose crisis that grows worse by the hour and has vexed America for centuries, Fisher has given us the best prescription of all: understanding. He seamlessly blends a gripping historical narrative with memoir that doesn't self-aggrandise; the result is a full-throated argument against blaming people with substance use disorder. The Urge is a propulsive tour de force that is as healing as it is enjoyable to read.’ -- Beth Macy, author of Dopesick ‘This courageous, urgent book tells the story of addiction, narrating its history, the author's own mêlées with alcohol and stimulants, and the narrative of other people’s struggles, which he has grappled with as a clinician. In poignant, episodic accounts, he describes historical conflicts that remain alive today, when we view addiction sometimes as a social circumstance, sometimes as a biological disease, and sometimes as a personal failure. Fisher has undertaken the difficult but necessary job of reconciling these multiple points of view.’ -- Andrew Solomon, author of Far from the Tree and The Noonday Demon‘Fisher … makes a striking debut by skillfully combining a cultural history of addiction with his own story of recovery. He first looks to ancient philosophers and thinkers … Along the way, he shares plenty of moving stories of the scientists, preachers, and patients on the front lines of addiction and movingly recounts his own struggle with alcohol and Adderall addiction while he was a physician in Columbia’s psychiatry residency program … There’s as much history here as there is heart.’ * Publishers Weekly, starred review *‘Fisher, a psychiatrist and a patient recovering from addiction, wonders, “Is everyone somewhere on the addiction spectrum?” What factors — biological, psychological, social, cultural — play a role? A unique perspective on a frustrating, often devastating problem.’ * Booklist *‘Doggedly researched, layered with empathy, The Urge pulls back multiple curtains at once in examining an ailment that will likely never go away … The Urge contains a wealth of such research and insight, rendered with a gimlet eye and a physician’s care. Addicts who make it to the other side often feel they have survived to fulfill a higher purpose. The Urge qualifies as just such an accomplishment, an inspired dive into a condition that, in one way or another, touches us all.’ * The Boston Globe *‘Eye-opening, humane, and meticulously researched.’ -- Caitlin Allen * Reaction *‘This compassionate history urges us to leave behind moral panic and the temptation to stigmatise drug victims, and find more than one solution to a very human problem.’ -- Robyn Douglass * SA Weekend *‘Thought-provoking.’ -- John Meagher * Irish Independent *‘I devoured [The Urge] … Drawing on his experience with addiction, as well as his training in medicine and bioethics, Fisher has produced a meticulous history of addictions — exploring why, across time and place, we pursue our compulsions and obsessions unto grave consequences.’ -- Zachary Siegel * The Baffler *‘[A] marvellous gift of hope … Fisher’s work is a challenge and an invitation to discard narrow conceptions, abandon punitive strategies, and “free ourselves to look instead at the full variety of interventions available to help.” … We are fortunate that his book is here, now, within reach of policymakers, prosecutors, family members, people who are suffering from addiction, and those in recovery.’ * American Scholar *‘Fisher’s writing glows with compassion … The Urge is an ambitious book.’ -- Catherine DeMayo * The South Sydney Herald *‘Addiction is variously described as a brain disease, a personal demon, and an epidemic. This compelling history holds that it is simply “part of humanity.” Fisher, an addiction physician and a recovering addict, illustrates the “terrifying breakdown of reason” that accompanies the condition by drawing on patients’ anecdotes and on his own experience. He also highlights the ways in which stigmas — such as the “firewater” myth, which held that Native Americans were uniquely vulnerable to alcohol addiction — have provided “ideological cover” for policing certain groups.’ * The New Yorker *‘Dr Carl Erik Fisher’s impressive debut tackles the cultural history of addiction, offering a nuanced, personal perspective on a health crisis that remains stigmatised and misunderstood … The Urge is several excellent books in one: a complete and sweeping history of addiction, a compassionate doctor’s approach to treating people with addictions, and a blistering critique of outdated, draconian government policies around drug use and addiction.’ -- BookPage, starred review

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Book SynopsisA revolutionary framework for living well in a broken world, from an acclaimed author and psychologist. How can I manage heartbreak? How do I cope with death? How can I learn to tolerate anxiety and have hope? In this helpful, practical, and realistic guide to good psychological health, Dr Ahona Guha shows us how to cope, thrive, and still feel hopeful for the future. Combining techniques from a range of therapeutic modalities, she demonstrates how we can build a range of essential psychological skills, and apply them to live a more tranquil and joyful life. Life Skills for a Broken World is a breath of fresh air, cutting through the confusion to provide solid, practical, and evidence-based answers to existential questions, big and small.Trade Review‘Dr Guha’s book is like therapy, activism, and a pep talk all rolled into one. Whether you’re stressing about the state of the world or just trying to level-up your own life, she’s got your back. It’s all about taking baby steps to make big leaps — not just for you but for the world at large. So, give it a read and prepare to be the change you’ve been waiting for.’ -- Chantelle Otten, sexologist and author of The Sex Ed You Never Had‘An easily digestible book showing how to build a better framework for mental health, plus useful chapters on the concepts of radical acceptance and setting boundaries. It’s an easy read without being full of woo-woo nonsense: a rare feat for a self-care manual.’ -- Isabel Berwick * Financial Times *‘Give this book as a gift to someone you love who is struggling — and that might be yourself. I already know this book is going to live on my bedside table. Dr Guha puts language and frameworks to help order the mess in our heads and hearts. Life Skills for a Broken World is grounding, consoling, and so practical.’ -- Benjamin Law, author of The Family Law and Gaysia‘Ahona Guha lays out a framework for mental health aligned with mainstream Australian clinical psychological practice … For readers who are brand new to therapy and want a no-nonsense, easy-to-read book without any American gloss or promises of unlimited wealth and happiness, Guha establishes an excellent toolkit and valuable principles for healthy living. The tone is down-to-earth and accessible and built on a foundation of prolific evidence-based research … Life Skills for a Broken World is likely the perfect gift for someone in your life and readers should eagerly anticipate the future publishing career of Dr Ahona Guha.’ -- David Burton * ArtsHub *‘Dr Ahona Guha’s book is a useful, frank and super helpful guide on how to be a more connected, values-driven human in a world that makes you want to conduct yourself like a raccoon on a trash heap. Her advice is sound and gentle, and challenging in a way that encourages you to grow instead of hiding under a blankie and scrolling. If you want to know how to embrace living in a practical, conscious way, Life Skills for a Broken World is for you!’ -- Eloise Grills, author of big beautiful female theoryPraise for Reclaim: ‘Reclaim is one of those books I will revisit again, whenever I need to process certain events or experiences.’ -- Dr Yumiko Kadota, author of Emotional FemalePraise for Reclaim: ‘In a world that so often turns away from the complexities of trauma and abuse, this book turns towards them … Reclaim is a game-changer.’ -- Chris Cheers, psychologist and author of The New RulebookPraise for Reclaim: ‘Reclaim gave me a better understanding of my own trauma. Huge gratitude to Dr Guha for this well-crafted book … A must-read for everyone.’ -- Veronica Gorrie, author of Black and BluePraise for Reclaim: ‘Powerfully, accessibly, and with a clinician’s depth of detail, Dr Guha writes directly about the violence we prefer to drape in darkness. She shows that it is only by seeking to understand its causes and consequences that we can work towards creating safer, fairer communities. I’m grateful to her for this illuminating, and urgently necessary, book.’ -- Sarah Krasnostein, author of The Trauma Cleaner and The Believer

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