This is a tad long. Bear with me.
About her: anxious, early 60s, south asian. Loves the Lord, her family and her job as a PT at a rehab facility
Although she won’t openly admit it, my mom struggles with anxiety, and has for decades. She didn’t have the easiest life and has not fully healed from things in her 20s and 30s – and is still a bit stuck in her victimhood from those experiences (her upbringing as a priest’s daughter, being a young mom, feeling unappreciated in her marriage, being an immigrant to the US decades ago, + strong eldest daughter syndrome). She never had anyone fighting for her and never really found her Voice. It’s easy to tell in her responses to constructive criticism or certain external stressors that her nervous system is quite disregulated. She is very sensitive to even constructive criticism and will burst into tears and quietly remove herself from the situation. I think it brings her back to the experiences mentioned above. All of her feelings are understandable, but looking to help her heal, move on and focus on Joy
I’ve suggested therapy, but her upbringing/cultural background and age (boomers!) have not made her open to going. She says shes fine and thinks she can just pray it away. Plus, I think she takes it as a dig coming from her daughter.
Which brings me to this – are there any books that can get her started on her journey that are not openly about anxiety or depression? I’m looking for something coded – to heal, to help her manage stress, find her voice, boost her confidence, to help her find the positivity in every day..themes like surviving to thriving, taking your life into your own hands, not worrying about others think, etc.
Appreciate any suggestions. Thanks so much for reading.
by Khaleesiakose