Top 10 Books on Maternal Mental Health and Coping Strategies
Motherhood is a profound journey, often accompanied by a complex blend of emotions. From the joy of new life to the challenges of balancing personal well-being with parenting responsibilities, mothers frequently navigate a unique mental health landscape. The following books offer insights, strategies, and support for mothers seeking to understand and manage their mental health.
1. Mom Brain: Proven Strategies to Fight the Anxiety, Guilt, and Overwhelming Emotions of Motherhood by Dr. Ilyse Dobrow DiMarco
Description: Dr. DiMarco, a clinical psychologist and mother, delves into the phenomenon of "mom brain," addressing the anxiety and guilt many mothers experience. She provides evidence-based strategies to help mothers reclaim their sense of self. “You are not broken. You are a mother.”
Citation: DiMarco, I. D. (2021). Mom Brain: Proven Strategies to Fight the Anxiety, Guilt, and Overwhelming Emotions of Motherhood. The Guilford Press.
2. The Self-Care Book for Busy Moms: From Burnout to Balance by Emma Bennett
Description: Bennett offers practical advice for mothers juggling various responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of self-care to prevent burnout and maintain balance in daily life “Self-care is not selfish; it's essential.”
Citation: Bennett, E. (2023). The Self-Care Book for Busy Moms: From Burnout to Balance. Self-Care Press.
3. Mama Needs a Minute! by Mary Catherine Starr
Description: Through humorous illustrations and candid reflections, Starr captures the everyday challenges and joys of motherhood, offering a lighthearted yet honest portrayal of maternal life. “Sometimes, all a mom needs is a minute... and a good laugh.”
Citation: Starr, M. C. (2025). Mama Needs a Minute!. Chronicle Books.
4. Mama, You Are Enough: How to Create Calm, Joy, and Confidence Within the Chaos of Motherhood by Dr. Claire Nicogossian
Description: Dr. Nicogossian explores the concept of "shadow emotions" and provides strategies to help mothers find peace and fulfillment amidst the challenges of motherhood. “Embrace your emotions; they are the compass to your well-being.”
Citation: Nicogossian, C. (2025). Mama, You Are Enough: How to Create Calm, Joy, and Confidence Within the Chaos of Motherhood. Wellness Press.
5. Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts: A Healing Guide to the Secret Fears of New Mothers by Karen Kleiman
Description: Kleiman addresses the often unspoken fears and anxieties new mothers face, offering compassionate guidance to help them navigate these emotions. “Your fears do not define your motherhood.”
Citation: Kleiman, K. (2024). Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts: A Healing Guide to the Secret Fears of New Mothers. New Harbinger Publications.
6. The Anxious Mom Manifesto: 18 Lessons to Control Your Anxiety Monster by Paola B. Sur
Description: Sur provides actionable lessons and strategies to empower mothers in managing and overcoming anxiety, aiming to foster a more confident and resilient parenting experience. “Anxiety is a visitor, not a resident.”
Citation: Sur, P. B. (2025). The Anxious Mom Manifesto: 18 Lessons to Control Your Anxiety Monster. Empowerment Press.
7. Slay Like a Mother: How to Destroy What’s Holding You Back So You Can Live the Life You Want by Katherine Wintsch
Description: Wintsch challenges societal expectations and perfectionism, providing strategies to help mothers overcome self-doubt and embrace authenticity in their lives. “You are worthy of the life you desire.”
Citation: Wintsch, K. (2025). Slay Like a Mother: How to Destroy What’s Holding You Back So You Can Live the Life You Want. Liberation Press.
8. Unwinding Anxiety: New Science Shows How to Break the Cycles of Worry and Fear to Heal Your Mind by Dr. Judson Brewer
Description: Dr. Brewer explores the latest scientific insights and practical strategies to break the cycles of worry and fear, providing a guide to healing the mind and promoting mental well-being. “Awareness is the first step toward freedom from anxiety.”
Citation: Brewer, J. (2024). Unwinding Anxiety: New Science Shows How to Break the Cycles of Worry and Fear to Heal Your Mind. Penguin Random House.
9. Mommy Burnout: How to Reclaim Your Life and Raise Healthier Children in the Process by Sheryl Ziegler
Description: Ziegler offers practical strategies and insights for mothers to overcome burnout, prioritize self-care, and create a healthier, more balanced family life. “You cannot pour from an empty cup.”
Citation: Ziegler, S. (2023). Mommy Burnout: How to Reclaim Your Life and Raise Healthier Children in the Process. HarperCollins.
10. Finding Calm for the Expectant Mom: Tools for Reducing Stress, Anxiety, and Mood Swings During Your Pregnancy by Dr. Alice D. Domar and Sheila Curry Oakes
Description: Dr. Domar and Oakes provide indispensable tools that women can use to find balance and joy throughout their pregnancy, addressing the emotional stresses expectant mothers may face. “Stop, breathe, reflect, and choose.”
Citation: Domar, A. D., & Oakes, S. C. (2023). Finding Calm for the Expectant Mom: Tools for Reducing Stress, Anxiety, and Mood Swings During Your Pregnancy. Penguin Random House.
