Matt Haig, don’t you just love him. I’ve enjoyed Matt’s past fiction, particularly ‘The Humans’, and I also read his book about depression called ‘Reasons to Stay Alive’ which was an honest look at his own mental health as a young man. This time he is musing on various elements of our mental state, from workplace stress and the toxic nature of being continually assessed; to the insistent nature of social media and how unhealthy it is for our equanimity.
It feels as if Matt is getting a few things off his chest, and there is stuff he really needs to tell us, and it’s all good advice. I admire his ability to share, his honesty in the face of the pressure to present a perfect front, and his small nuggets of insight. He’s right about the bombardment of information, and the negative feelings of being overloaded that produces, and the addictive qualities of online activity, however worthwhile a tool it can be for reaching out. Also, about needing to switch off at times, to take a break from the things that make us anxious, and nurture ourselves, saying no to stimulants like alcohol and coffee.
At times this feels like notes on a nervous Matt Haig, but that’s ok because after all, we can only talk about our own experience, and draw wisdom from that. A thoughtful and helpful book for anyone who has wondered what it’s all about and if they are heading in the right direction.
