Reasons to Stay Alive

A short, brilliant book about one man's experience of depression and anxiety that has universal relevance. Matt Haig shares his journey from a suicidal bout of depression in his early 20s, to his current status as a happily married family man, published author and general beacon of light in an increasingly dark world.

The book is open and honest and Haig is great at simply describing what he felt and what he did to come through to the other side. He's not “cured”. There is no cure. Life isn't that simple. But he now has tools to manage the onset of anxiety and black moods.

If you have suffered from depression, read this (but maybe not if you're in the depths right now). If you know someone who is suffering, read this. A better understanding of the causes, symptoms and tools to manage your mental well-being can only be beneficial. This book isn't a self-help guide. It's simply the tale of one man's struggle to rebuild himself. But if we can draw something, anything from his story, then it will help.

Be kind to yourselves.