Subject
Mental health Books
Best books
Walter B. (Walter Bradford) Cannon
Bodily changes in pain, hunger, fear, and rage : $b an account of recent researches into the function of emotional excitement
"Bodily Changes in Pain, Hunger, Fear and Rage: An Account of Recent Researches into the Function of Emotional Excitement" by Walter B. Cannon is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. The book examines the physiological responses accompanying intense emotional experiences such as pain, hunger, fear, and rage, drawing connections between these feelings and their effects on bodily functions. Cannon's work explores how these emotional states trigger specific alterations in digestion and other bodily systems. The opening of the text presents an introduction to the fundamental significance of emotions and their accompanying physiological changes. Cannon emphasizes the shared experiences of humans and animals in affecting behaviors, underscoring the importance of understanding how emotions influence physiological activities, especially in digestion. He outlines the organization of his research, which includes various animal studies demonstrating how emotional states can inhibit or promote digestive functions through both visceral nerve influences and the secretion of adrenal hormones. The premise is that these bodily changes are essential for survival and can provide insights into human behavior and health.
Annie Payson Call
Nerves and Common Sense
"Nerves and Common Sense" by Annie Payson Call is a self-help book written in the late 19th century that explores the concept of managing nerve strain through practical advice and personal anecdotes. The work centers on enhancing one's mental and emotional well-being by addressing harmful habits and fostering healthier responses to stressors in everyday life. At the start of the book, the author discusses the formation of habits that lead to nervous strain and depression, suggesting that understanding these habits can facilitate a transition to healthier living. Call emphasizes that negative emotions such as resentment and resistance not only impact mental health but also manifest physically, urging readers to cultivate relaxation techniques and a more thoughtful approach to their interactions with the world. She provides various examples, including the story of a woman whose nervous condition stems from external disturbances, illustrating the importance of self-awareness and initiative in overcoming such challenges.
Annie Payson Call
Power Through Repose
"Power Through Repose" by Annie Payson Call is a self-help guide centered around physical and mental well-being, written in the late 19th century. The book discusses the importance of rest and relaxation for maintaining a healthy body and mind, emphasizing how the misuse of our nervous systems can lead to various ailments. Call advocates for a more natural way of moving and living, illustrating her ideas with a blend of practical advice and philosophical insights about the relationship between our physical states and emotional well-being. At the start of the work, Call introduces the extensive literature on caring for the human body, noting an oversaturation of information about nutrition, exercise, and development while positing that many people still fail to apply this knowledge. She highlights common issues such as "Americanitis," a term she uses to describe the nervous strain prevalent in American society. Call stresses the need for a conscious approach to relaxation and a return to natural laws governing our bodies, giving examples of how poor habits lead to stress and even illness. The opening chapters delve into the mechanics of relaxation, the significance of proper posture, and the innate need for restful sleep, laying a foundation for her holistic approach to health.
Annie Payson Call
The Freedom of Life
"The Freedom of Life" by Annie Payson Call is a philosophical self-help book written in the late 19th century. It addresses the concepts of personal freedom, resilience, and the importance of non-resistance in overcoming life's challenges and achieving inner peace. The core idea revolves around the notion that true freedom is found not in the avoidance of difficulty, but in accepting and navigating through it with a willing and open mindset. The opening of the book introduces the concept through the story of a young woman overwhelmed by fatigue from her work. Through a dialogue with a comforting friend, she learns that it is not the work itself that exhausts her, but her approach and the strain she places on herself. This leads her to experiment with a more relaxed method of working—a so-called "lazy way." The narrative emphasizes that changing one's attitude and approach to tasks can provide relief from fatigue and stress, hinting that deeper understanding and self-control can foster a more productive and harmonious life. The theme of non-resistance is further explored as essential for personal well-being and growth.
William Crosbie Hunter
Think: A Book for To-day
"Think: A Book for To-day" by William Crosbie Hunter is a self-help book written in the early 20th century. The work emphasizes the importance of positive thinking and mental well-being in overcoming life's challenges. The author offers practical advice aimed at individuals seeking to restore balance in their lives amidst the stresses and difficulties of contemporary society. The opening of the book introduces the idea of nerve energy and emphasizes the importance of conserving this energy to maintain overall health. Hunter advocates for practices such as relaxation, proper sleep, dietary adjustments, and reflection to correct negative thought patterns. He reassures readers that change is possible, encouraging them to adopt a methodical approach to their daily habits and mental state. The narrative establishes a reassuring tone, suggesting that anyone facing despair or discouragement can reclaim their nerve equilibium through conscious efforts to think positively and embrace a healthier lifestyle.
Herbert J. (Herbert James) Hall
The Untroubled Mind
"The Untroubled Mind" by Herbert J. Hall, M.D. is a philosophical and self-help book written during the early 20th century. This work explores the concepts of mental health, serenity, and personal growth, emphasizing the significant impact of one's mindset on well-being and recovery from illness. The book seeks to address the complexities of worry and anxiety, promoting a more fulfilled and peaceful outlook on life. In the book, Hall argues that mental unrest is often rooted in excessive worry and that the key to overcoming it lies in adopting a broader perspective on life. He discusses various paths to inner peace, such as the importance of work, creativity, spiritual insight, and self-discipline. Hall shares anecdotal evidence from his experiences as a physician to illustrate how individuals can find meaning beyond their physical ailments and mental concerns. By shifting focus from their worries to a more expansive understanding of life's possibilities, readers are encouraged to cultivate an untroubled mind, leading to greater contentment and resilience against life's inevitable challenges.
Charles David Musgrove
Nervous Breakdowns and How to Avoid Them
"Nervous Breakdowns and How to Avoid Them" by Charles D. Musgrove is a self-help book written in the early 20th century. The work focuses on the understanding of nervous breakdowns, their symptoms, and preventive measures, drawing parallels between human health and the mechanics of machinery. The author aims to equip readers with strategies to maintain their mental and physical well-being, thus avoiding the pitfalls of nervous disorders that often afflict capable individuals under stress. At the start of the book, the author uses the metaphor of an express train to illustrate how sudden breakdowns can occur without warning, particularly for those who devote themselves intensely to their work or personal commitments. Musgrove discusses the nature of breakdowns, identifying emotional and physical signs that may precede a crisis, such as fatigue, irritability, and an overwhelming sense of worry. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing these danger signals early, as well as adopting a lifestyle that promotes a better balance of health through proper diet, exercise, and rest. The opening sets the stage for a thorough exploration of health and the various factors influencing the onset of nervous disorders, inviting readers to take proactive steps towards maintaining their overall well-being.
James J. (James Joseph) Walsh
Health Through Will Power
"Health Through Will Power" by James J. Walsh is a psychological health guide written in the early 20th century. This work emphasizes the crucial role of willpower in maintaining health and recovering from disease, challenging the prevailing focus on intellect alone. It posits that human will not only influences mental resilience but also has a significant impact on physical vitality and longevity. The opening of the book sets the stage by discussing the transformative effects of war on individuals, suggesting that extreme experiences can unveil hidden strengths of willpower. Walsh uses compelling anecdotes to illustrate that the will to live can dramatically impact recovery from illness, arguing that willpower is often the deciding factor in a patient’s ability to heal. He also critiques modern society's comforts as detrimental to willpower, advocating for a life that actively exercises the will to foster both resilience and healthier living. This initial exploration establishes the foundation for the deeper discussions on the will's role in various aspects of health that follow in the subsequent chapters.
Immanuel Kant
Von der Macht des Gemüts, durch den bloßen Vorsatz seiner krankhaften Gefühle Meister zu sein
"Von der Macht des Gemüts, durch den bloßen Vorsatz seiner krankhaften Gefühle Meister zu sein" by Immanuel Kant is a philosophical treatise written in the late 18th century. This work combines elements of philosophy and medicine, exploring the influence of the mind over bodily health and illness. It delves into the complex relationship between mental states and physical well-being, arguing for the power of intention and mental discipline in overcoming unhealthy conditions. In this text, Kant discusses how the human mind can exert a considerable influence over bodily ailments, suggesting that psychological factors often play a crucial role in both the development and healing of physical illnesses. He elaborates on various types of mental states that can manifest as physical symptoms, such as hypochondria, while advocating for a proactive approach to managing one’s health through the harnessing of mental strength and willpower. The book presents a series of observations and recommendations, blending personal anecdotes and philosophical reflections, highlighting the importance of mental attitudes in achieving overall health and well-being.
John Haslam
Sound Mind Or, Contributions to the natural history and physiology of the human intellect
"Sound Mind" by John Haslam is a scientific publication written in the early 19th century. This work delves into the natural history and physiology of the human intellect, exploring various aspects of mental functioning, including perception, memory, and reason. Haslam aims to establish a clearer understanding of the faculties of the mind, contrasting its healthy state with mental derangement. The opening of "Sound Mind" offers insight into the author's perspective on the importance of understanding a sound mind before discussing its disorders. Haslam introduces the concept that knowledge of the intellect's healthy functionalities is crucial for defining its aberrations. He proposes a comprehensive study of the human mind through careful observation and analysis of mental faculties, setting the stage for a detailed examination of topics such as perception and memory. The preface reveals Haslam's scholarly intent to contribute positively to the field of psychology and psychiatry, emphasizing the need for a better grasp of the intellect's normal states as foundational to the understanding of its pathologies.
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