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Maintaining that the personal and societal costs of mental health issues are comparable to those of physical health, such as heart disease and cancer, King presents a wealth of information and insight into strategies for prevention and treatment. A grandmother of six, with a master's in counseling and psychology, the author encourages readers to "forget the stigma" associated with mental health, arguing that everyone can use a helping hand, mentally, at points during their lives. Chapters cover such topics as love and marriage, parenting, career, navigating joys and sorrows, anxiety and depression, feelings, aging, and her humorous and insightful meditations on "Rules for Being Human." None of us came with an owner's manual included when born, King writes. Every individual is automatically enrolled in the "informal school of Life University," where there are not necessarily mistakes to be made but rather lessons to learn. Ultimately, King insists, your life story is written by you, alone.
From the first page of this enjoyable read, King's upbeat message—marked by contagious enthusiasm—engages. She has taught such material for decades, working closely with clinical psychologists and psychiatrists, for whom she has enormous respect. King's ability to connect with her readership on a down-to-earth, personal level is outstanding. Her use of humor and relatable anecdotes is equally impressive. A deep understanding of psychological and emotional well-being informs several "tips" she offers and explores. These range from embracing change, celebrating others' successes without resentment, maintaining healthy sleep patterns, exercising, eating well, engaging in activities that help others, and spending time outside in the sunshine. A strong case is made for limiting the use of devices and phones, instead opting for activities like volunteering, deep breathing, laughing, and watching daily sunsets. There is healthy beauty in this message and, as the author reminds us, such undertakings are always entirely free of charge.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review