Nonfiction

Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art – James Nestor
Explores the science and history of breathing, showing how proper breathwork improves mental and physical health.
The Healing Power of the Breath – Richard P. Brown & Patricia L. Gerbarg
Practical guide to breathwork for stress, trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Just Breathe: Mastering Breathwork for Success in Life, Love, Business, and Beyond – Dan Brulé
Accessible intro to breathing techniques for emotional balance and mental clarity.
The Oxygen Advantage – Patrick McKeown
Focuses on how breath control can help with anxiety, sleep, and performance.
Breathe In, Breathe Out – Stuart Sandeman
Mindfulness-based breathing practices to improve resilience and reduce stress.
Fiction
The Bell Jar – Sylvia Plath
Classic novel exploring depression and inner struggles with mental health.
Turtles All the Way Down – John Green
Though YA crossover, many adults read it; deals with anxiety, OCD, and coping mechanisms.
Anxious People – Fredrik Backman
A heartfelt, funny novel about a group of people dealing with anxiety, fear, and human connection.
Mrs. Dalloway – Virginia Woolf
A stream-of-consciousness novel addressing trauma, depression, and existential thoughts.
Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine – Gail Honeyman
A contemporary novel about loneliness, healing, and mental health recovery.

Fiction