Misunderstood: A Guide To Mental Wellness: Insights to help you understand yourself and those you love

by Sree Krishna Seelam

203 pages, Hardcover

Published April 21, 2025

About the author

Have a bachelor’s in common sense and an urge to learn.

I believe I was born to try new things and experience everything life offers.

I spent more time than people of my age with books, staying curious, exploring the world, and understanding human behaviour.

I love to share my knowledge with the world. This is how I pay back for consuming the earth's resources and having the fantastic opportunity to live among you all.

I don’t write books to sell. I write to spark revolutions.

Every word I write is to make law, justice, mental health, and dignity accessible to the common citizen.

I AM A Rebel.

I AM Sree Krishna Seelam.

Reviews

[Sameer Gudhate · Rating 4 out of 5]

The other night, I found myself lying awake long after I had turned the last page of Misunderstood: A Guide to Mental Wellness by Sree Krishna Seelam. You know that strange quiet after finishing a book—the kind that feels less like silence and more like someone has just left the room but their words are still hovering around you? That’s exactly where this book left me. And I’ll be honest—I didn’t expect a book on mental health to feel this alive, this personal, almost like sitting across from a wise friend who listens without judgment and gently nudges you toward clarity.

At its heart, Misunderstood isn’t just about diagnosing problems or tossing around jargon. Instead, it feels like an invitation to finally pause and ask ourselves questions we’ve long avoided. Why do I react this way under stress? Why does sadness sometimes feel like quicksand? Why does the question “Why me?” echo in so many of our hearts? Seelam doesn’t hand you a cold textbook answer—he wraps those questions in real stories, his own vulnerabilities, and carefully chosen strategies that feel practical rather than prescriptive.

The writing itself is refreshingly clear. There’s no academic heaviness here, no sense of being lectured. Instead, the prose flows with warmth—simple, relatable, and almost conversational. Some chapters read like personal confessions; others weave in research and psychology in a way that never once drags. The pace is gentle but steady—you don’t speed through it like a thriller, but you don’t want to put it down either. Let’s just say my tea went cold more than once because I was too absorbed to notice.

Since this is nonfiction, the “characters” are really the ideas—and they’re presented in ways that stick. Stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD—terms we hear often, sometimes too casually—are broken down not as labels but as lived experiences. There’s one story about feeling invisible in one’s own pain that has etched itself into my memory, probably because it mirrored something I had once struggled with. That recognition—the “Oh, it’s not just me”—is the kind of gift this book keeps offering.

Structurally, the book balances narrative and reflection beautifully. Each chapter brings in a thread of personal experience, ties it with science, and then leaves you with something actionable—whether it’s an exercise in mindfulness, a perspective shift, or simply permission to feel. It doesn’t promise quick fixes (and thank goodness for that), but it does remind you that healing can begin in small, tender steps.

What struck me most, though, was the theme of compassion—towards others, yes, but especially towards ourselves. We live in a culture that rewards productivity and punishes vulnerability, so admitting that you’re not okay often feels like failure. This book flips that. It says, “No, your emotions are not flaws to be hidden. They’re truths to be understood.” Reading it, I thought about how rarely we extend the patience we give friends to our own weary selves.

Emotionally, the journey was a rollercoaster—at times heavy with recognition, at times unexpectedly uplifting. A few passages even made me pause, close the Kindle, and just breathe, because they hit a little too close. But there’s also an undercurrent of hope running through it all, a reminder that even in the darkest moments, resilience is possible.

Seelam nails the balance between science and soul. His biggest strength is the accessibility—mental health here is not portrayed as something only for specialists to decode. It’s for the student overwhelmed with exams, the parent quietly battling anxiety, the colleague who hides tears in the restroom. The weakness, if I had to pick one, is that some sections repeat familiar advice (like exercise and mindfulness). But then again, maybe repetition is necessary when it comes to lessons we so often ignore.

Personally, this book reminded me of the conversations I wish were more common in our homes and workplaces. I’ve read plenty on self-help and psychology, but few have felt this human. If you’ve ever felt “too much” or “not enough,” if you’ve ever struggled to explain your pain to someone who just didn’t get it, this is a book worth sitting with. It’s not just for those in crisis; it’s for anyone who wants to better understand themselves and be gentler with the people they love.

When I finally closed it, I didn’t just feel like I had read a book—I felt like I had been listened to. And in a world where mental health still carries stigma, that is rare and precious. I’d call this a solid 4.8 out of 5, not because of the number on a scale, but because of how much of it lingers even now. If you pick it up, don’t rush. Let it talk to you. Let it hold up a mirror. You may just walk away feeling a little less misunderstood.

[Literature Soul · Rating 4 out of 5]

Misunderstood is a book of kindness, eloquence, and honor that integrates personal narrative with the experiences of others, and practical focusing on mental health. The author considers topics like anxiety, depression, and ADHD, and provides stories that we can relate to understand their considerations. Misunderstood unveils complex mental health concepts in a language anyone can relate to and use for personal development. Misunderstood is about growing awareness of self and the value of getting help when needed and doing so, without stigma. The language used invites clarity and empathy and provides a trusting space for the reader's own journey through mental health. Practical frameworks, behaviours, for mindfullness and self-care are considered throughout the book.
In conclusion, If unsure of your current situation in life, Misunderstood offers practical considerations for individual or caregiver to help navigate that space. The literature is equally balanced combining the study, or science of mental wellness, with elements of the heart and emotion. Misunderstood is a timely and engaging read for people of all ages, or stages of life who want to further consider one's own mental wellness: young or old, parent or youth. For anyone who wishes to break the silence or lack of understanding around mental wellness, this book is a must read.

[Saroni Ghoshal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Misunderstood: A Guide To Mental Wellness by Sree Krishna Seelam is a compassionate and accessible exploration of mental health, particularly the biological roots of depression. The book breaks the common misconception that depression is just sadness or weakness. Instead, it highlights how chemical imbalances in the brain—such as serotonin and dopamine disruptions—play a critical role.

What sets this book apart is its blend of science with human experience. Real-life stories like Rajesh’s make complex concepts relatable, showing the lived impact of depression. Seelam explains the science clearly and offers practical strategies like mindfulness, therapy, and medication, emphasizing that healing is both biological and behavioral.

This book is ideal for those struggling with depression or trying to support loved ones. It replaces judgment with understanding and shows that seeking help is a strength, not a flaw. A must-read for anyone wanting to truly grasp what mental illness feels like from the inside out.

[Omkar Banerjee]

In Misunderstood: A Guide To Mental Wellness, Sree Krishna Seelam powerfully addresses the psychological aspects of depression, showing how past trauma, negative self-talk, and low self-worth can deeply affect mental health. The book doesn’t just describe these patterns—it helps readers identify and challenge them.
Through real-life stories and psychological insights, Seelam illustrates how unresolved emotional wounds can grow into chronic depression. He shows how thoughts like “I’m not good enough” can silently erode one’s self-esteem, especially when unaddressed.
What’s most helpful is his balance between empathy and action. He offers tools rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to shift negative thinking, as well as mindfulness and compassion techniques to rebuild inner strength.
This book reminds readers that emotional pain is real, but so is the potential for healing. With understanding and consistent practice, even long-standing psychological patterns can be transformed. A thoughtful guide for personal reflection and growth.

[Subhra Banerjee · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Misunderstood: A Guide To Mental Wellness, Sree Krishna Seelam highlights how social disconnection and stigma are often silent contributors to depression. He explores how loneliness, lack of support, and societal expectations can worsen mental health, especially when people feel they must hide their pain to “fit in.”
What makes this book so impactful is its deep empathy. Seelam gives voice to those who feel invisible, reminding readers that being surrounded by people doesn’t mean you feel understood. Stories of individuals battling isolation serve as powerful reminders that meaningful connection is essential for healing.
He also challenges cultural stigma, particularly in communities where mental illness is seen as shameful or weak. His message is clear: vulnerability is strength, and seeking support is not a flaw—it’s survival.
Misunderstood offers hope and encourages readers to build supportive networks. It’s a heartfelt guide for anyone who’s ever felt alone in their struggle.

[Shubhangi · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Misunderstood: A Guide to Mental Wellness" by Sree Krishna Seelam is a heartfelt and compassionate exploration of mental health challenges. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is facing challenges like depression, anxiety, or ADHD.


Sree's insightful approach combines scientific understanding with his own personal struggles, making the content not only relatable but truly enlightening. This book serves as a beacon of hope for individuals battling negative thoughts and trauma, providing valuable guidance on the journey to emotional healing.


Through practical tools like cognitive behaviour therapy and mindfulness, the author emphasises a crucial message: reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness, but rather a profound expression of strength. This book beautifully encourages us to seek support and embrace our vulnerabilities as we work towards mental wellness.


This book is like a comforting friend, guiding you through life's ups and downs, always there.

[Tripti Mittal · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book isn't just a compilation of thoughts or facts- it's a heartfelt and courageous guide to mental health. This book includes real life stories which made me feel more connected and emotional. After reading this books I can say that earlier I'm not aware of what is mental health actually is but now I know how every small incident or aspect of life can affect our mental health. This books openly tells about mental health issue, about which our society is actually afraid of. And the storytelling or I would say the way this book had written is so interactive and make me feel very comfortable and it felt like as I'm talking to someone. I'm glad that I have read this book at a very young age , this book taught me , understoods me and let mw know myself more deeply. THANKS to writer" Sree krishna Seelam Sir " for such a masterpiece.

[Prashanthi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading Misunderstood: A Guide to Mental Wellness honestly felt like a breath of fresh air. I’ve read a few books on mental health before, but this one really connected with me because of how simple and relatable it was. The author explains things in a way that makes you feel seen, and I caught myself nodding along to so many parts.

What I appreciated most was how practical it felt—I could actually take some of the suggestions and apply them to my daily routine without feeling overwhelmed. It didn’t come across as preachy or clinical, just honest and supportive, almost like having a friend remind you to take care of yourself.

This book made me pause, reflect, and also feel a little lighter by the end. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who wants to understand themselves better or is just looking for a gentle push toward prioritizing mental wellness.

[Arthya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading Misunderstood felt like talking to someone who actually listens. It’s gentle, but it’s not sugar-coated. It talks about things most of us feel but rarely say out loud- and it makes those feelings less scary.

The stories and examples make it feel less like a “self-help” book and more like you’re walking alongside someone who’s been there. There’s no rush, no “fix yourself in 5 steps” nonsense. Just the right mix of understanding and doable ideas.

By the end, I didn’t feel like a brand-new person (no book can do that overnight), but I did feel lighter. And maybe that’s the point - small changes, more kindness towards yourself, and a little more patience with the world. I’ll probably keep this one on my shelf for the days that feel heavier than others.

[Prachi Tewatia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Misunderstood: The Guide to Mental Wellness is written with tenderness and thought. The inscrutable aspects of mental health are presented in a way that feels accessible and very human. Practical insights are interspersed with gentle suggestions, making it worthwhile reading for someone trying to understand her own struggles, and also for those who wish to better understand, and support loved ones in their own struggles. Its tone is warm, non-judgmental, and encouraging—a balm for all those who read it, so they will feel recognized and less alone. It chooses to convey complex concepts in clear, everyday language rather than with heavy-handed academic jargon. Thus, it is preceded by almost a companion on that treacherous path toward self-discovery and empathy.

[Barsha Mallik · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book goes beyond just talking about depression or stress—it captures the silent battles people fight every single day. Reading it felt like holding a mirror to my own thoughts at certain difficult points in my life. The way the author connects personal experiences with universal struggles makes it easy for anyone to relate.

One of the most powerful aspects of this book is its focus on awareness. Too often, people dismiss mental health issues as a phase or weakness, but the book challenges that idea. It shows how dangerous silence can be and how important it is to seek support. What I carried with me after finishing it was a deep respect for the courage it takes to survive difficult times, and an even deeper belief that every life is worth fighting for.

[Daisy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a nice blend of personal stories and factual information about mental health. It's written in a way that feels incredibly human, not like a dry textbook.

On the other side it's also heartbreaking yet powerful. It captures the raw pain of losing a friend to suicide and the lasting impact of that memory. What I loved most is how it reminds us that mental health struggles are often invisible and misunderstood. The writing feels deeply personal, making you pause and think about how much compassion people really need.

Basically, it's a great read that helps you understand mental health isn't a simple thing. It's a spectrum we all move on, and the book makes a strong case for approaching the topic with more compassion and kindness.

[Mouboni Sen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made me realize that feeling mentally exhausted is acceptable, but being weighed down by that exhaustion is not. Mental health is the most overlooked aspect of health in India; our culture is structured around ignoring the issues that occur in our minds. Many children experience mental health issues, which negatively impacts their lives. I believe this book serves as a catalyst for social change and aims to address that. Sree Krishna Seelam's experiences with suicide and the misdiagnosis of ADHD vividly illustrated how our concealed struggles can truly influence our everyday existence.

[Aayu Jain · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just finished Misunderstood, and honestly, it felt like sitting down with a friend who really gets you. The way author breaks down the complexity of mental health into simple stories makes it feel less scary. None of that stiff, just real talk. I found myself nodding along, thinking, "Yep, I've been there." It's encouraging without pretending to have all the answers. A chapter on silence hit me hard-turns out, what's not said often hurts the most. The exercises sprinkled throughout? Super helpful to pause and reflect. This book doesn't preach-it cheers you on. After reading it, I cried, I laughed, and definitely felt less alone. Feels like the best kind of therapy, with zero awkwardness.

[Vinitaprince Jain · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay, so imagine having a heart-to-heart over coffee-this book captures that vibe perfectly. Seelam's tone is gentle but real; he doesn't sugar-coat things. When he touches on anxiety, it's like someone finally naming the chaos in your head. I especially loved how each chapter ends with a simple prompt or thought-no pressure, just an invitation to look inward. There's this one story about invisible pain, and wow, it slaps you with how many of us carry hidden wounds. I could almost hear the author saying, "You're okay-even in the mess." It's one of those reads you keep on your nightstand to revisit when your mind starts running in circles.

[Anshu · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book highlights the very common but unspoken issue of the society i.e. mental health . When I saw this book and take a quick view on the whole books my eyes read diffrent names and problem and this things led me read to the whole book and when I read the whole book I felt something diffrent in myself, like a change. I really like this book I will definitely recommend thus book to everyone who wants top know the people , their personality and how small things/problem made their health different

[Hemant Nagpal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading Misunderstood felt like someone finally turned on the light in a dark room I didn’t know I was sitting in. The words were real, not sugar-coated, and they helped me understand things about myself I never thought much about. I loved how it touched on overthinking, friendships that feel one-sided, and how it's okay not to have everything figured out. It didn’t feel like reading a book — it felt like having a deep conversation with someone who gets it. I’ll keep coming back to this whenever I feel confused or low. So grateful I found this.

[Stuti · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the stories, but at times, it felt like too many voices without enough reflection. A bit more analysis would’ve tied everything together more powerfully.

Some parts felt repetitive, as if the same message was being reworded. A tighter edit could’ve made the impact stronger and more focused.

[Nicola · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book has some really strong points, especially in how simply it explains complex topics like anxiety, trauma, and stigma. The personal stories and analogies make it relatable, and has a practical touch. However, at times the writing felt a bit repetitive and oversimplified, and I wished for more depth on the professional side of treatment. It’s a good starting point for beginners, but readers looking for detailed guidance may find it lacking. Overall, an honest and well-meaning effort, though not as comprehensive as I had hoped.

[Jayesh Murali · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book offers a clear and thoughtful introduction to mental health. Complex topics like depression, stress, and trauma are broken down with everyday examples, making them easy to grasp without any prior knowledge of psychology. What stood out to me most was the section on suicide prevention-it's written with compassion and deep understanding. Overall, it's an accessible and insightful read that highlights not only mental health challenges but also the role of relationships in healing. I'd definitely recommend it to anyone wanting to better understand themselves or others.

[Mistymagic · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book helped me understand myself in ways I hadn’t before. The writing is so easy to connect with, and it explains things about mental health without making it feel overwhelming. It felt like someone was walking beside me, not ahead of me. I really appreciated how honest and human it all felt. If you’ve ever felt lost or misunderstood, this book will make you feel a little more seen and a little less alone.

[Roopa · Rating 5 out of 5]

"A Book That Truly Listens"

Reading this felt like I was finally being heard without having to say a word. The way it explains emotions, anxiety, trauma, and daily struggles felt deeply personal, like someone understood what I couldn't explain even to myself. The stories felt real, the tone was kind, and I felt a genuine sense of relief just knowing I wasn’t the only one feeling this way. This isn’t just a book, it’s quiet companionship.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Misunderstood: A Guide to Mental Wellness is for anyone who has ever felt unseen or unheard. The book helps us understand ourselves and others by exploring important topics that are often ignored like trauma, anxiety and emotional struggles. It’s both healing and informative. The insights shared in the book break mental health down in a way that is relatable and easy to connect with. A must read for anyone on a journey towards emotional well-being.

[Hamda Siddiqui · Rating 5 out of 5]

I never thought I would finish this in one sitting, but somewhere between the first and last chapter, I forgot about the clock. This book doesn’t just tell you about mental health — it invites you into moments, memories, and feelings that feel both deeply personal and strangely familiar. By the end, it felt less like reading and more like remembering something I’d always known but had never put into words.

[Aaina Mahajan · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Misunderstood: A Guide for Mental Wellness, Sree Krishna Seelam thoughtfully navigates the challenges of mental health awareness through accessible language and empathetic storytelling. The book emphasizes destigmatization, emotional literacy, and the value of professional help, making it an essential introductory text for mental health education and community outreach. Its strength lies in its relatability and non-judgmental tone, which fosters a safe space for reflection and healing.

[Deeksha]

This book "Misunderstood" shares real-life moments I could deeply relate to. The sections feels like a simple toolkit for your mind, easy steps you can try right away. By the last chapter, I felt more hopeful and learned small habits that actually lift my mood. I’ll keep this book on my nightstand for days when I need a calm, practical companion. I recommend it to anyone looking for an honest, no-fuss guide to mental wellness.

[Mahika · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book is very easy to understand and is also extremely informative. The life experiences of author make it even more interesting to read. The explanation is simple and straightforward. Books like these are very important for people to understand more about mental health issues and how to deal with them or also help someone suffering with them. Many topics are covered under this book thereby making it inclusive and helpful.

[Mohammad Ali · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Misunderstood: A guide to mental wellness "is a heartfelt and eye opening read. Ramkrishna seelam approaches mental health with honesty and empathy,blending real experience, scientific insights,and practical advice ina way that feels both accessible and comforting.
What I loved most is that the book doesn't feel or clinical it feels human. The chapter touch on common struggle like anxiety, overthinking,and self- doubt, while offering gentle reminder that healing and resilience are possible.

[Rani Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Misunderstood: A Guide to Mental Wellness is an eye opening and helpful book. It explains what mental health really means and talks about important topics like childhood trauma, anxiety, depression and even suicide in a sensitive way. The book gave me a better understanding of mental health and how to take care of myself. I would recommend it to anyone who wants to learn more about mental wellness and find simple ways to heal

[Tanish Khanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Misunderstood: A Guide to Mental Wellness by Sree Krishna Seelam offers a compassionate and clear look into mental wellness.
Sree Krishna Seelam breaks down complex ideas into relatable insights.
It feels less like a self-help book and more like a heartfelt conversation.
The real-life examples make it easy to connect emotionally.
I think it is perfect for anyone navigating mental health or emotional challenges.
It is a short sincere read with a lasting impact.