“Right now, we’re seeing girls who are struggling with eating disorders, depression, suicidality (thoughts, plans and attempts at suicide), social anxiety, and aggressive and destructive behavior, as well as body image, self-esteem, and relationship or friendship issues," Michael Roeske, PsyD, Executive Director of Newport Academy tells Verywell Family. “Self-help books and podcasts can be beneficial to help them discover new coping mechanisms and feel less alone in their struggles and thoughts." We carefully considered material, relatability, inspiration, and practical advice when reviewing products. If you’re on the hunt for the best self-help books for teen girls, here are our top picks. “I Would, but My Damn Mind Won’t Let Me” is our top pick because it covers a variety of topics, including stress, doubt, frustration, unhappiness, the pressure of social media, and life as a teenager today. The book is written to help teens create positive self-talk and coping skills, change negative beliefs, manage and control their responses and emotions, and improve self-esteem and confidence. Leveraging more than 20 years of experience working with teens and young adults, author Jacqui Letran also has a Master of Science in Nursing so you can truly trust the advice that she gives. Price at time of publication: $22 Price at time of publication: $16 Author Charlotte Markey, PhD., is a body image expert, professor of psychology, and director of the Health Sciences Center at Rutgers University-Camden. Throughout the book, Dr. Markey shares research and facts on mental health, self-care, toxic diet culture, social media, and more. Additionally, the book includes real-life questions and stories from girls who have struggled with body image as well as practices to help readers love and appreciate their bodies. Price at time of publication: $15 Price at time of publication: $18 Price at time of publication: $16 Price at time of publication: $13 “The Teen Girl’s Survival Guide” will teach girls how to get a sense of who they are as individuals and as friends, how to love and accept themselves, and how to expand the quality and quantity of their friends and social connections. What really stands out to us is that this book is written by psychologist and teen expert Lucie Hemmen, PhD, who roots her advice in evidence-based cognitive behavior therapy. Price at time of publication: $18 Price at time of publication: $18 Price at time of publication: $18
What to Look For in Self-Help Books for Teenage Girls
Inspiration
Crossing over into the teen years can mean a surge of emotions and sharp mood swings, thanks to a spike in hormones like estrogen and progesterone. While this can be a challenging time for caregivers, it’s also a great time to help your teen learn about managing their emotional health. Giving your teen an opportunity to release some of their built-up tension, frustration, or overall moodiness with a guided journal can help them navigate the rollercoaster that is puberty. If your teen isn’t into journaling, reading inspiring anecdotes and helpful tips from professionals can let them feel heard and seen.
Practical Advice
We know that the last thing a teen wants to hear from their parent is advice. This is why books that offer practical tips that address issues your teenage girl faces can be very effective. Books that feature checklists and step-by-step plans can further empower teens by letting them see the tangible fruits of their efforts.
Relatability
No one is quicker to roll their eyes than a teenager. This doesn’t mean they have a bad attitude (well, not always), but rather that they are most interested in reading material that connects to their lives and experiences. While we know that most teens are dealing with the same handful of challenges, actually being a teenager can feel quite isolating and lonely. Look for books aimed directly at teens, meeting them on their level without sounding patronizing or fluffy. Teens will gravitate toward texts that address issues they see in their own lives, like friendship conflicts, romantic relationships, and fitting in. Knowing that they’re not the only teen girl struggling with body image can go a long way in boosting self-esteem and self-image.
Why Trust Verywell Family
This article was written by Ashley Ziegler, a full-time parenting writer and a mom to a 2-year-old and 5-year-old. As an avid reader, Ashley loves books across genres, including self-help, and she has first-hand experience with the struggles of being a teen girl. Additional reporting by Denise Witmer. Denise Witmer is a former writer for Verywell Family. She worked as a writer and web publisher of About.com’s Parenting Teens Resources Guide for 16 years.
