6 Books I Recommend If You Struggle with Anxiety

Colleen therapist

If you’re navigating anxiety, you’re not alone—and sometimes, the right book can feel like a lifeline. Whether you’re looking for practical tools, deep insights, or a little reassurance, these books can help you better understand your anxiety and guide you toward calm and clarity. Here are six of my top recommendations:

1. “The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook” by Edmund Bourne

If you’re looking for a practical, hands-on guide, this workbook is a game-changer. It’s packed with exercises and techniques to help you manage anxiety, from relaxation techniques to cognitive behavioral strategies. It’s easy to follow and great for anyone who wants to feel more in control of their anxiety.

2. “Unwinding Anxiety” by Judson Brewer, MD, PhD

Dr. Brewer blends science and mindfulness in this powerful book, explaining how anxiety becomes a habit and how to break the cycle. His approach is compassionate and evidence-based, offering tools like mindfulness practices to help you interrupt anxious thought patterns.

 3. “The Wisdom of Anxiety” by Sheryl Paul

This book takes a refreshing approach to anxiety, seeing it not as something to fight against but as a guide to self-discovery. Sheryl Paul encourages you to listen to what your anxiety is telling you and approach it with curiosity rather than fear. It’s an insightful read for anyone who feels stuck in anxious patterns.

4. “Dare: The New Way to End Anxiety and Stop Panic Attacks” by Barry McDonagh

Barry McDonagh’s method is simple, practical, and effective. He focuses on facing your fears head-on and reducing your fear of anxiety itself. The book is encouraging and action-oriented, making it a helpful companion for anyone struggling with panic attacks or social anxiety.

 5. “Radical Acceptance” by Tara Brach

Tara Brach combines mindfulness and self-compassion to help you break free from the cycle of anxiety and self-judgment. With a mix of personal stories, meditations, and practical tools, this book offers a path to self-acceptance and peace. It’s a must-read if you’re hard on yourself.

6. “Rewire Your Anxious Brain” by Catherine Pittman and Elizabeth Karle

This book dives into the science of anxiety, explaining how the brain works when you’re anxious—and how you can change those patterns. It combines neuroscience with CBT techniques, making it a great pick if you want to understand your anxiety on a deeper level while learning practical coping strategies.

Final Thoughts

Anxiety can feel isolating, but there are many paths to healing—and these books are a wonderful place to start. Whether you’re looking for science-based strategies or compassionate guidance, you’ll find tools here to help you manage your anxiety and build a more peaceful life.

Have you read any of these? Or do you have a favorite book on anxiety? I’d love to hear your thoughts! And if you’d like personalized support on your journey, feel free to reach out—I'm here to help.