Finding the right support is crucial. Here are some carefully selected resources—books, apps, websites, and organizations—that we believe can be helpful on your journey. (Disclaimer: These are general suggestions. Please seek professional advice for personal medical or mental health concerns. Motivate Courage is not affiliated with and does not endorse every aspect of these external resources.)
Mental Health Organizations & Helplines
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Offers advocacy, education, support, and public awareness so that all individuals and families affected by mental illness can build better lives. Visit NAMI
- Crisis Text Line: Provides free, 24/7 support via text message for those in crisis. Text HOME to 741741 in the US & Canada, or 85258 in the UK. Visit Crisis Text Line
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline: Confidential free help, from public health agencies, to find substance use treatment and information. 1-800-662-HELP (4357). Visit SAMHSA Helpline
- The Trevor Project: Provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people under 25. Visit The Trevor Project
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources. Call or text 988 in the US. Visit 988 Lifeline
Helpful Apps (Meditation, Mood Tracking, Therapy)
- Headspace: Guided meditations, mindfulness exercises, sleep sounds, and more for stress, anxiety, focus, and sleep. (Subscription-based) Visit Headspace
- Calm: Popular app for sleep, meditation, and relaxation, featuring guided sessions, music, and nature sounds. (Subscription-based) Visit Calm
- Insight Timer: Large library of free guided meditations, talks, and music tracks from various teachers. (Free with optional premium subscription) Visit Insight Timer
- Daylio Journal: A micro-diary and mood tracker app that helps you understand your habits and mood patterns without extensive writing. (Free with optional premium subscription) Visit Daylio
- BetterHelp / Talkspace: Online therapy platforms connecting users with licensed therapists via messaging, phone, or video. (Subscription-based, costs vary) Visit BetterHelp / Visit Talkspace
Recommended Books (Self-Help, Psychology, Memoirs)
- “Man’s Search for Meaning” by Viktor Frankl: A psychiatrist’s experience in Nazi concentration camps and his exploration of finding meaning in suffering.
- “Daring Greatly” by Brené Brown: Explores vulnerability, courage, worthiness, and shame based on extensive research.
- “Atomic Habits” by James Clear: Practical strategies for building small, consistent habits that lead to remarkable results.
- “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle: A guide to spiritual enlightenment through living fully in the present moment.
- “Mindset: The New Psychology of Success” by Carol S. Dweck: Explores the power of fixed vs. growth mindsets in achieving potential.
Inspiring Websites & Blogs
- Tiny Buddha: Simple wisdom for complex lives – articles on happiness, love, relationships, mindfulness, and letting go. Visit Tiny Buddha
- Zen Habits: Finding simplicity and mindfulness in the daily chaos of life, written by Leo Babauta. Visit Zen Habits
- Greater Good Magazine (UC Berkeley): Science-based insights for a meaningful life, focusing on gratitude, compassion, and happiness. Visit Greater Good
- Mark Manson’s Blog: Blunt, counter-intuitive advice on life, happiness, and self-improvement. Visit Mark Manson’s Blog
Podcasts
- The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos: Yale professor explores the science of happiness and offers practical tips based on psychological research.
- On Purpose with Jay Shetty: Interviews with insightful people, exploring mindfulness, purpose, and conscious living.
- Hidden Brain: Uses science and storytelling to reveal the unconscious patterns that drive human behavior.
- Ten Percent Happier with Dan Harris: Interviews with meditation experts and scientists about mindfulness and well-being.