Recommended Books
Divergent Mind by Jenara Nerenberg is a fascinating read. It’s all about how people, particularly women, who are neurodivergent—think ADHD, autism, dyslexia, etc.—experience the world in a way that's often outside the typical box. The book goes into how society tends to overlook or even dismiss neurodivergence, but also how these different ways of thinking can be super powerful and unique. Definitely a thought-provoking book if you're interested in psychology or just want to understand the diversity of human experience a little more.
Self-Care for Autistic People by Sarah Hendrickx is all about taking care of yourself in a way that suits your unique needs as an autistic person. It focuses on managing sensory overload, avoiding burnout, and setting boundaries, with practical advice on routines and downtime. The book emphasizes that self-care doesn’t have to fit the typical mold (like bubble baths or yoga) and encourages finding what truly works for you. It's a supportive, affirming guide for thriving in a way that honors your brain’s needs.
The Neurodivergent Skills Workbook for Autism and ADHD by Monique Mitchellson is a hands-on guide with practical exercises to help you develop life skills like emotional regulation, social interactions, and self-advocacy. The strategies are tailored for neurodivergent people, offering clear steps for managing challenges like anxiety or staying organized. It’s interactive, allowing you to personalize techniques to fit your needs, making it a great resource for working through specific issues at your own pace.
Unmasking Autism by Devon Price explores how many autistic people feel pressured to hide their true selves to fit in, which can be exhausting and harmful. The book focuses on the concept of “masking” and its negative impact, while also offering strategies for unmasking—embracing your authentic neurodivergent identity. It’s a compassionate guide on accepting yourself, finding community, and living more authentically for better mental health and happiness.
How to Keep House While Drowning by K.C. Davis is a super relatable book for anyone struggling with housework and feeling overwhelmed. It’s all about letting go of the pressure to keep your house “perfect” and finding small, manageable ways to maintain it without feeling guilty or stressed. The author offers practical tips that focus on progress over perfection—like breaking tasks into smaller steps, letting go of all-or-nothing thinking, and understanding that just doing something is a win. It’s a compassionate approach to housework, especially if you’re dealing with mental health challenges or just feeling burnt out. It’s less about keeping everything spotless and more about creating a space that’s livable and calming.
Taking Off the Mask by Hannah Belcher focuses on the experiences of autistic people, especially around the concept of "masking"—when someone hides their true identity to fit in with societal norms. Belcher delves into how exhausting and harmful masking can be, leading to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and burnout. The book offers guidance on unmasking, or learning to embrace and express your authentic self without the pressure of conforming. It’s a supportive read for anyone looking to better understand their neurodivergent identity and find ways to live more authentically.