Introduction

There are so many popular psychology texts in the shops that it can be difficult to know where to begin. This set of book-lists was compiled to respond to site members who have asked us what they might read on this topic.

Our selection is not intended to be the 'final word' - we are sure that there are many other good and helpful books out there; in any case we recognise that what is helpful is very subjective and depends on personal circumstances.

Books are listed in alphabetical order by author and all prices are approximate and based on availability in February 2007.

Disclaimer

The descriptions given are intended to provide a summary of the contents but should not be taken to imply that anxietypanicstress.com endorses the opinions expressed.

Anxiety & Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

• Understanding Panic Attacks and Overcoming Fear
  Roger Baker, Lion Publishing, 1995, £10

  Dr. Baker deals with the origin of panic attacks and indicates a programme to enable sufferers to conquer them and their associated fears.

• Panic Attacks
  Sue Breton, Vermilion, 1996, £9

  This text suggests to sufferers of panic attacks how they can overcome their fears by recognising situations and symptoms which trigger an attack. It also describes the different types of attacks and how learning about their personality can help a sufferer to overcome them.

• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder - The Facts
  Padmal de Silva & Stanley Rachman, Oxford University Press, 2004, £13

  Contains information about the nature, symptoms, types, causes, treatments and theories of obsessive compulsive disorder. The authors look at the range of theories available and offer advice for those who may need help.

• Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway
  Susan Jeffers, Vintage/Ebury, 1997, £7

  The author claims that fear prevents people from doing what they really want and need to do in order to grow and achieve a sense of well being. This book aims to offer readers an opportunity to consider their patterns of thinking, in order to confront and overcome their fears.

• Managing Anxiety
  Helen Kennerley, Oxford University Press, 1995, £20

  Dr. Kennerley sets out to show how to teach patients self-help psychological skills to control their anxiety, hopefully avoiding the need to resort to treatment with tranquillisers. Contains case studies.

• Overcoming Anxiety
  Helen Kennerley, 1997, Constable Robinson, £10

  A guide to overcoming a range of problem fears and anxieties - from panic attacks and phobias to "executive" burnout - with the aim of regaining confidence and self-control.

• Living With Fear
  I.M. Marks, McGraw-Hill Publishing, 2001, £15

  A step by step format intended for working with and overcoming fear.

• Staying Sane: How to Make Your Mind Work for You
  Dr Raj Persaud, Metro Books, 1998, £9

  Aims to bring mental health into focus and help the reader to develop strategies for combating stress and maintaining health and sanity.

• Anxiety & Depression - A Practical Guide to Recovery
  Robert Priest, Vermilion, 1996, £10

  A self-help guide to recovery from depression and anxiety. Covers methods intended to reduce stress and offers explanations for causes and effects of anxiety and depression.

• Overcoming Panic: A Self-Help Guide Using Cognitive Behavioural Techniques
  Derrick Silove and Vijaya Manicavasagar, Constable Robinson, 1997, £7

  Aims to help the reader beat panic attacks and the stresses they cause. Implementing cognitive behavioural techniques, this book attempts to help the reader unlearn bad habits and replace them with healthy ones

• Understanding Obsessions and Compulsions
  Frank Tallis, Sheldon Press, 1992, £8

  A guide explaining the principles of anxiety reduction and giving treatment suggestions in accessible language. It covers compulsive checking, washing, hoarding, obsessional thoughts and worry, obsessional personality and depression.

• Self Help for your Nerves
  Claire Weeks, Harper Collins, 2000, £8

  A guide explaining the principles of anxiety reduction and giving treatment suggestions in accessible language. It covers compulsive checking, washing, hoarding, obsessional thoughts and worry, obsessional personality and depression.