A Toolkit for Modern Life: 53 Ways to Look After Your Mind

What a super book! Bought to give a friend who has found lockdown stressful - but it is so good I have to keep it for myself and order another for her! There is something so soothing, so calming about Emma’s illustrations - and her advice is so sound and no nonsense, you can tell she is an NHS stalwart. Much, much better than the gazillion ‘Insta psychology’ books that are just full of uplifting phrases but only ever skim the surface. This book is like having a nice cup of tea and a biscuit with your fairy godmother, she makes everything feel better!

Excellent practical book accessible to all. With clear explanations and her signature drawings Dr Hepburn has made this often complex area understandable and broken down the stigma sometimes associated with mental health. She emphasises the point that mental health is relevant to all of us. We can all take ideas from this book to help us promote our own mental health and well-being. I like the idea that she removes the guilt sometimes associated with allowing yourself a break. You also get a sense of witty charm through her writing which makes this an easy and enjoyable read which really can be used as a toolkit for modern life. Well done Esme.

I have struggled with anxiety my whole life and all my coping strategies I'd built up were useless after I had kids due to their constant needs. I have struggled with this ever since and this book is a godsend. The book is practical, witty and to the point (particularly useful for time-poor people!) I really recommend having a read; it's like getting a hug from a best mate who's telling you everything is going to be okay.

I’ve followed Brian the brain/the psychology mum on social media for a long time so was looking forward to receiving the book. I loved the fact it was written so I could dip in and out of the chapters focusing in on what is most personally relevant or interesting. As well as the fantastic illustrations there is valuable information about mental health, value, (anti)social media, comparing ourselves, imposter syndrome, each chapter also has helpful exercises to try. As a psychologist myself I know its not easy to write about psychological concepts but Dr Emma Hepburn has a lovely ‘chatty’ style in her writing. I bought this for me but I’ll be buying several more of these for friends and family at Christmas!

What a friendly, accessible, chatty book but also amazingly useful! Packed full of info but not too heavy on references and stats, it's a fabulous book to dip into. There are futher references if needed but just flicking through it is uplifting. It's the sort of book to keep by your bedside and dive into when needed.