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Steady: A Guide to Better Mental Health Through and Beyond the Coronavirus Pandemic
How do you deal with uncertainty and anxiety when your world is upended by the coronavirus pandemic? Dr Sarb Johal, an expert in emergency management and disaster psychology, had to answer that question for an entire country as he helped develop the world-leading response that saw Covid-19 stamped out by the 'team of five million' in his home country of New Zealand. The lessons, which we can all apply in our daily lives, are in this timely book.
Full of easy-to-follow, practical tools and tips, Steady can get you through any crisis or change of circumstance with your mental health intact. You'll learn how to deal with uncertainty; the psychological impact of empathy - both on ourselves when we offer it, and to those who receive it; along with practical ideas around introducing structure into your life and how this can help reduce stress and contain feelings of panic.
Steady is for anyone wanting to strengthen their capacity to ride the possible coming waves of Covid-19 - as well as life's general ups and downs - with more calm, ease and a sense of groundedness.
About the Author
Born in the UK where he trained as a Clinical Psychologist, Dr Sarb Johal's experience encompasses clinical practice, frontline services, policy development and Ministerial advice and strategic communications. Since 2006, he has helped the New Zealand and UK governments, as well as the World Health Organisation, develop psychosocial responses to some of the major crises of the last decade, including the H1N1 pandemic, the Canterbury earthquakes, the Kaikōura earthquake, the Christchurch mosque shootings and most recently, the Covid-19 pandemic. Dr Johal lives in Wellington, New Zealand, with his wife and young family. https: //sarbjohal.com/
Full of easy-to-follow, practical tools and tips, Steady can get you through any crisis or change of circumstance with your mental health intact. You'll learn how to deal with uncertainty; the psychological impact of empathy - both on ourselves when we offer it, and to those who receive it; along with practical ideas around introducing structure into your life and how this can help reduce stress and contain feelings of panic.
Steady is for anyone wanting to strengthen their capacity to ride the possible coming waves of Covid-19 - as well as life's general ups and downs - with more calm, ease and a sense of groundedness.
About the Author
Born in the UK where he trained as a Clinical Psychologist, Dr Sarb Johal's experience encompasses clinical practice, frontline services, policy development and Ministerial advice and strategic communications. Since 2006, he has helped the New Zealand and UK governments, as well as the World Health Organisation, develop psychosocial responses to some of the major crises of the last decade, including the H1N1 pandemic, the Canterbury earthquakes, the Kaikōura earthquake, the Christchurch mosque shootings and most recently, the Covid-19 pandemic. Dr Johal lives in Wellington, New Zealand, with his wife and young family. https: //sarbjohal.com/
240 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 22, 2021
24 people are currently reading
536 people want to read
About the author
Sarb Johal
6 books10 followersThe field of psychology is full of fascinating insights into human behaviour. Insights that could transform the way we meet with challenges, lead organisations, and experience the world around us… if only we could put them into practice.
Dr Sarb Johal is a clinical psychologist, consultant and commentator who brings a psychological lens to the light, the dark and the intriguing aspects of the human experience. His videos, blogs and podcasts turn complex psychological theory into simple tools for solving everyday problems, helping people and organisations navigate tough times with greater wellbeing and equilibrium.
Now, in his first book, he pours 30 years of experience as a psychologist into his first book: Steady - Keeping Calm in a World Gone Viral.
Steady is for anyone wanting to strengthen their capacity to ride the possible coming waves of COVID-19 - as well as life’s general ups and downs - with more calm, ease and a sense of groundedness.
Born in the UK where he trained as a Clinical Psychologist, Dr Sarb Johal’s experience encompasses clinical practice, frontline services, policy development and Ministerial advice and strategic communications.
Since 2009, he has helped the New Zealand and UK governments, as well as the World Health Organisation, develop psychosocial responses to some of the major crises of the last decade, including the H1N1 pandemic, the Canterbury earthquakes, the Kaikoura earthquake, the Christchurch mosque shootings and most recently, the Covid-19 pandemic. Dr Johal lives in Wellington with his wife and young family.
Dr Sarb Johal is a clinical psychologist, consultant and commentator who brings a psychological lens to the light, the dark and the intriguing aspects of the human experience. His videos, blogs and podcasts turn complex psychological theory into simple tools for solving everyday problems, helping people and organisations navigate tough times with greater wellbeing and equilibrium.
Now, in his first book, he pours 30 years of experience as a psychologist into his first book: Steady - Keeping Calm in a World Gone Viral.
Steady is for anyone wanting to strengthen their capacity to ride the possible coming waves of COVID-19 - as well as life’s general ups and downs - with more calm, ease and a sense of groundedness.
Born in the UK where he trained as a Clinical Psychologist, Dr Sarb Johal’s experience encompasses clinical practice, frontline services, policy development and Ministerial advice and strategic communications.
Since 2009, he has helped the New Zealand and UK governments, as well as the World Health Organisation, develop psychosocial responses to some of the major crises of the last decade, including the H1N1 pandemic, the Canterbury earthquakes, the Kaikoura earthquake, the Christchurch mosque shootings and most recently, the Covid-19 pandemic. Dr Johal lives in Wellington with his wife and young family.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
February 12, 2021
Grāmatas autors ir Jaunzēlandē dzīvojošs klīniskais psihologs, kas sniedzis konsultācijas dažādās globālās krīzes situācijās un bijis arī PVO konsultants. Ļoti vienkārši, skaidri un saprotami viņš raksta par notiekošo, nu jau gadu visai pasaulei pavadot pandēmijas apstākļos. Šīs grāmatas panākumi, manuprāt, rodami skaidri izstrādātā struktūrā, loģiskos (mūsu sarežģītā prāta un trauksmaino emociju) skaidrojumos, kā arī reālos, viegli īstenojamos padomos, kas var katram dot tik ļoti nepieciešamo pozitīvo mierinājumu. Es apzinos, ka mana ikdiena pat ir ļoti mierīga, salīdzinājumā ar vecākiem, kuriem mājās mācās bērni, vai profesijām, kas mēnešiem nevar gūt ienākumus. Taču vienalga man ļoti nomierināja autora teiktais, ka patiesībā katru dienu ir tikai daži jautājumi, uz kuriem mums šādas pandēmijas izraisītas psiholoģiskās spriedzes apstākļos ir jāatbild, un divi no tiem ir: vai man un manai ģimenei ir mājvieta un vai man un manai ģimenei ir pārtika. Krīzē uzmanība ir jāvelta pamatvajadzībām, jo tikai pēc tam varam sekmīgi domāt, kā apmierināt augstākas vēlmes, un patiesībā nekas nenotiks, ja staigāsim ar ataugušām matu saknēm vai pusdienās nebūs iedvesmas uztaisīt desertu pēc kāda TV šova receptes. Šobrīd varam justies arī noguruši un vāji. Un ir labi, ka autors ne tikai to atgādina, bet arī mudina aktīvi domāt un rīkoties, lai šie vājuma brīži nepārvēršas par mūsu ikdienas prāta stāvokli.
dnfed
February 16, 2021Thanks to NetGalley and Independent Book Publishers Association for providing an ARC!
May 21, 2021
Rating: 5
Re-Read Factor: Yes
Steady: A Guide to Better Mental Health Through and Beyond the Coronavirus Pandemic casts a wide net over a myriad of topics-- from relationships, childrearing, politics, and more-- all under the lens of the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Johal truly hits all the marks on how to get through the current times, and one can only wish to transport this piece of work to a year in the past. He also brought to light concepts (e.g. illusion of explanatory depth) that were quite foreign to me, and I used his work as the basis to research more into those topics.
Steady is an all-around wonderful guide to understanding elements of the pandemic as well as learning how to be a better you in context of that.
Re-Read Factor: Yes
Steady: A Guide to Better Mental Health Through and Beyond the Coronavirus Pandemic casts a wide net over a myriad of topics-- from relationships, childrearing, politics, and more-- all under the lens of the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Johal truly hits all the marks on how to get through the current times, and one can only wish to transport this piece of work to a year in the past. He also brought to light concepts (e.g. illusion of explanatory depth) that were quite foreign to me, and I used his work as the basis to research more into those topics.
Steady is an all-around wonderful guide to understanding elements of the pandemic as well as learning how to be a better you in context of that.
January 9, 2021
Thanks to Netgalley and Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) for an advance copy of this book.
Steady is a great little book about how we can all support ourselves psychologically through the pandemic and beyond. It includes a number of helpful ideas and tips in fighting misinformation, and how we can protect ourselves from the onslaught of news.
My only criticism would be in that some of the book talked about solutions that ultimately could only be provided by the government. Being in the UK and knowing what a mess our government has made of everything, this is depressing.
This is particularly because we are reliant on the government doing things such as paying people enough to self isolate, to actually encourage compliance.
I think the book would have perhaps been better suited leaving these things out, and instead focusing on the things we can do individually.
While there is a lot of useful information in the book, I feel like it was all rather overshadowed by the fact that much of it is out of my control.
Steady is a great little book about how we can all support ourselves psychologically through the pandemic and beyond. It includes a number of helpful ideas and tips in fighting misinformation, and how we can protect ourselves from the onslaught of news.
My only criticism would be in that some of the book talked about solutions that ultimately could only be provided by the government. Being in the UK and knowing what a mess our government has made of everything, this is depressing.
This is particularly because we are reliant on the government doing things such as paying people enough to self isolate, to actually encourage compliance.
I think the book would have perhaps been better suited leaving these things out, and instead focusing on the things we can do individually.
While there is a lot of useful information in the book, I feel like it was all rather overshadowed by the fact that much of it is out of my control.
January 7, 2021
Ok I don't usually go in for self-help books, but in quarantine, my mental health hasn't been great. When I saw this book targeted specifically at helping people mentally survive Coronavirus/lockdowns/quarantine/isolation/etc., I suspended my disbelief and decided to give it a chance and... wow. There are so many things that made me feel so much better about where I am right now, but what I appreciated most were the solutions. All of the ideas about how I could better establish routine, regulate screen time, and improve mood seemed both realistic and helpful, and while I've just started implementing them, I have high hopes. My knowledge of mental health is incredibly limited but I hope other people find this book as helpful as I did!
December 29, 2020
A comprehensive guide to recognising and dealing with stress and anxiety, particularly with reference to Covid 19. Whilst some of the advice was repetitive there’s plenty to take from the book in order to cope with these challenging times from supporting kids, creating structure, staying connected and conspiracy theories and more. Worth a read.
February 1, 2021
A very timely and helpful book for the struggles we’re all currently experiencing.
Johal clearly boasts a lot of insight and expertise on the topics of anxiety and managing uncertainty which are clearly presented in an engaging way throughout. There’s a fair bit of repetition - especially in the action items and early chapters - but not to such a degree that it was entirely off putting or distracting from the value being added.
For the most part, I thought this book covered some really interesting and relevant topics that shed a lot of light into how many of us are feeling right now. I know that personally, I found it shone an interesting light on ideas such as moral fatigue, conspiracy theories/misinformation, the psychological impacts of quarantine/isolation, and the evolutionary explanations behind negative thinking and threat management. And even the topics I couldn’t personally relate to, I found interesting to read from the angle of better understanding others. As, like Johal says throughout, empathy is key to our handling of this and other crises.
An insightful read all in all!
***Thanks to NetGalley for providing this copy in exchange for an honest review
Johal clearly boasts a lot of insight and expertise on the topics of anxiety and managing uncertainty which are clearly presented in an engaging way throughout. There’s a fair bit of repetition - especially in the action items and early chapters - but not to such a degree that it was entirely off putting or distracting from the value being added.
For the most part, I thought this book covered some really interesting and relevant topics that shed a lot of light into how many of us are feeling right now. I know that personally, I found it shone an interesting light on ideas such as moral fatigue, conspiracy theories/misinformation, the psychological impacts of quarantine/isolation, and the evolutionary explanations behind negative thinking and threat management. And even the topics I couldn’t personally relate to, I found interesting to read from the angle of better understanding others. As, like Johal says throughout, empathy is key to our handling of this and other crises.
An insightful read all in all!
***Thanks to NetGalley for providing this copy in exchange for an honest review
April 14, 2021
An excellent guide to navigating the challenges of COVID-19, everyone should consider reading this book to gain insight into what society is facing and how we can all make it through together. Addressing areas that I would never have associated with impacts of COVID and related restrictions, the book helps guide the reader in an easily readable manner through what they are experiencing, why, and how to address it in easy-to-understand suggestions. The techniques for improving mental health apply not only to COVID but also for pre-existing mental health struggles. The book offers knowledge and advice in a positive manner - there's no judgement here, only suggestions for helping ourselves, our families, our neighbors, and our communities adapt to our new normal, leaving me feeling relieved that I will make it and I'm not alone. *I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
January 13, 2021
“The central task of a psychologist is to help people live with uncertainty.”
This line from Dr Sarb Johal’s new book, Steady, struck me and immediately pulled me in. Indeed, in the duration of this pandemic, this has been our job as psychologists—trying to help the community deal with the uncertainty brought about by the novel circumstances surrounding the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In this book, Dr Johal poured his years of clinical and research experience and his scientific knowledge in disaster mental health into a concise but very informative book that I wish I had when this pandemic began.
This book is like a pocket pandemic/disaster psychologist. It is very comprehensive; it tackles a wide range of issues and problems of living that people experienced (or in many cases, continue to experience) during the pandemic. It addresses various concerns, from effective parenting during a lockdown to dealing with pandemic-related conspiracy theories, from coronavirus fatigue to existential anxiety. The book presents a general framework that individuals can personalise and contextualise to suit their specific circumstances. However, what I also found to be particularly useful are the specific tips and structured activities and exercises that the reader may follow. This may be particularly helpful when one does not know where or how to begin dealing with the overwhelming experiences associated with COVID-19.
Steady talks to you like how a disaster clinical psychologist would. Reading it is therapeutic for several reasons. First, it touches on the real experiences of individuals during this global crisis. It talks about the joys, pain, and suffering of people during these difficult times without being patronising. While it is grounded on human experiences, it also diligently backs claims and recommendations with science. Dare I say, it is a masterclass in science communication as well: it tells you what the evidence currently suggests and what the limits of our current evidence are. In other words, it also helps individuals be comfortable with the uncertainty in science. Needless to say, this book is informative without being overwhelming or intimidating.
Overall, Steady is a fantastic read for professionals, policy makers, and the general public. It works excellently as a self-help book but at the same time, may even be a brilliant addition to the reference texts of disaster psychology students (and teachers, too). This book provides structure in the face of chaos, but as Dr Johal repeatedly writes, structure should always be accompanied by empathy. This is what his book does. It helps you put in structure in your personal response to the pandemic stress but does so in a very empathic, non-patronising manner. It helps you frame and reframe these experiences in order to reduce psychological distress and optimise opportunities for growth, during and even beyond the pandemic. It is a good guide to being steady.
This line from Dr Sarb Johal’s new book, Steady, struck me and immediately pulled me in. Indeed, in the duration of this pandemic, this has been our job as psychologists—trying to help the community deal with the uncertainty brought about by the novel circumstances surrounding the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In this book, Dr Johal poured his years of clinical and research experience and his scientific knowledge in disaster mental health into a concise but very informative book that I wish I had when this pandemic began.
This book is like a pocket pandemic/disaster psychologist. It is very comprehensive; it tackles a wide range of issues and problems of living that people experienced (or in many cases, continue to experience) during the pandemic. It addresses various concerns, from effective parenting during a lockdown to dealing with pandemic-related conspiracy theories, from coronavirus fatigue to existential anxiety. The book presents a general framework that individuals can personalise and contextualise to suit their specific circumstances. However, what I also found to be particularly useful are the specific tips and structured activities and exercises that the reader may follow. This may be particularly helpful when one does not know where or how to begin dealing with the overwhelming experiences associated with COVID-19.
Steady talks to you like how a disaster clinical psychologist would. Reading it is therapeutic for several reasons. First, it touches on the real experiences of individuals during this global crisis. It talks about the joys, pain, and suffering of people during these difficult times without being patronising. While it is grounded on human experiences, it also diligently backs claims and recommendations with science. Dare I say, it is a masterclass in science communication as well: it tells you what the evidence currently suggests and what the limits of our current evidence are. In other words, it also helps individuals be comfortable with the uncertainty in science. Needless to say, this book is informative without being overwhelming or intimidating.
Overall, Steady is a fantastic read for professionals, policy makers, and the general public. It works excellently as a self-help book but at the same time, may even be a brilliant addition to the reference texts of disaster psychology students (and teachers, too). This book provides structure in the face of chaos, but as Dr Johal repeatedly writes, structure should always be accompanied by empathy. This is what his book does. It helps you put in structure in your personal response to the pandemic stress but does so in a very empathic, non-patronising manner. It helps you frame and reframe these experiences in order to reduce psychological distress and optimise opportunities for growth, during and even beyond the pandemic. It is a good guide to being steady.
January 25, 2021
Enjoyed this extremely relevant book helping us with self-improvement both on an individual and societal level! The pandemic has been destructive on many levels, and needless to say, everyone has borne the brunt of it. This book should be read by everyone, especially people looking to do better in 2021 and being mindful of their surroundings. Dr. Johal has outlined several impressive ways through case studies to combat the current crisis and improve your mental well being.
Thank you Netgalley And Dr. Sarb Johal for sharing this Advanced Readers Copy with me. My review & feedback is honest, and I appreciate the book.
Thank you Netgalley And Dr. Sarb Johal for sharing this Advanced Readers Copy with me. My review & feedback is honest, and I appreciate the book.
March 29, 2021
Lovely cover picture. Made me think calm thoughts in the midst of the chaos of the pandemic. I loved some of the advice especially "self empathy". I think we all feel guilty about numerous things and it feels good to know its ok to let somr worries go. Listening is another oft forgotten advice. It's hard to sometimes hear above the din of your own voice in your head. A good book for our times.
#netgalley #steady
#netgalley #steady
September 20, 2021
I thought it was interesting, and a bit helpful, but I think I’d have to read it more than once - or make some printouts of all the lists of things to do - to make full use of it.
January 22, 2021
The first sentence of this book was gripping: 'The central task of a psychologist is to help people live with uncertainty'. Even though life is generally uncertain, living during the pandemic is similar to a war in some respects, with so many horrifying deaths, emergency regulations and the uncertainty of knowing what is going to happen from day to day. Even in countries dealing with it well, such as Australia (at the expense of thousands of stranded Australian citizens), the level of anxiety, worry and tension is arguably at a record high. People, especially the younger generation, are apparently calling charities like Lifeline in record numbers.
This is a wonderfully helpful book with several suggestions for dealing with these problems, such as the Five Ways to Well-being and ways to find structure in your life during lockdown. Dr Sarb Johal covers every aspect of life which worries about the virus can affect in this book, and offers tips for improving them. For example, he has a chapter on looking after children during the pandemic, and he even provides ideas for those working at home. This book is not only about mental health, but it also offers suggestions for keeping psychically healthy and fit during this time.
I will certainly look at this book often (especially the part about working from home), and tell others about it.
I received this free ebook from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
EDITION Paperback
ISBN 9780995146105
PRICE $16.99 (USD)
This is a wonderfully helpful book with several suggestions for dealing with these problems, such as the Five Ways to Well-being and ways to find structure in your life during lockdown. Dr Sarb Johal covers every aspect of life which worries about the virus can affect in this book, and offers tips for improving them. For example, he has a chapter on looking after children during the pandemic, and he even provides ideas for those working at home. This book is not only about mental health, but it also offers suggestions for keeping psychically healthy and fit during this time.
I will certainly look at this book often (especially the part about working from home), and tell others about it.
I received this free ebook from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
EDITION Paperback
ISBN 9780995146105
PRICE $16.99 (USD)
March 6, 2021
I think there’s not so much to say about this amazing book. “Steady” by Dr. Sarb Johal is a must-read guide to avoid mental health issues during the global pandemic. It is full of helpful tips and so enjoyable, I would suggest it to literally everyone.
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May 13, 2022Steady: A Guide to Better Mental Health Through and Beyond the Coronavirus Pandemic by Dr. Sarb Johal is one of those books I wish everyone would read.
80% of the people around the globe would find some idea or thought within these pages that would help explain the currently fluid world we find ourselves within. They would find an understanding professional who clearly lays out the current causes of anxiety at every level from personal to global.
Dr. Johal is imminently well qualified to write this touchstone for the world. He has worked with governments and international organizations, to develop psychosocial responses for over a decade. Among the crises he has helped guide populations through is the H1N1 pandemic.
He knows his stuff.
The prose is clear and approachable. The concepts are clearly presented and there is ample reference to resources for those, like myself, who are inclined to look at the nuts and bolts of research.
It is, overall, a calming and reassuring look at the changing social landscape caused by the COVID pandemic. Dr. Johal offers understanding and practical approaches to the mental stresses that it seems everyone is facing. He doesn't offer rainbows, but he is offering umbrellas to help us make it through the current series of crises.
One thing I found of particular note is his refusal to advocate for the 'normal'. Quite rightly Dr. Johal reminds the reader that every situation is fluid, even if it is familiar. He doesn't give any promises, but he does make emerging from the pandemic seem possible.
-- Oh, and that other 20% or so, those are the folks who live with long term trauma. And, while we may know a good bit about anxiety and uncertainty, we would do well to read the book, too. Because, sometimes we need to remember that not everyone is programmed to flourish in the shifting unknown.
(And no, I don't know if it really is a 80/20 split - it's a metaphor.)
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
80% of the people around the globe would find some idea or thought within these pages that would help explain the currently fluid world we find ourselves within. They would find an understanding professional who clearly lays out the current causes of anxiety at every level from personal to global.
Dr. Johal is imminently well qualified to write this touchstone for the world. He has worked with governments and international organizations, to develop psychosocial responses for over a decade. Among the crises he has helped guide populations through is the H1N1 pandemic.
He knows his stuff.
The prose is clear and approachable. The concepts are clearly presented and there is ample reference to resources for those, like myself, who are inclined to look at the nuts and bolts of research.
It is, overall, a calming and reassuring look at the changing social landscape caused by the COVID pandemic. Dr. Johal offers understanding and practical approaches to the mental stresses that it seems everyone is facing. He doesn't offer rainbows, but he is offering umbrellas to help us make it through the current series of crises.
One thing I found of particular note is his refusal to advocate for the 'normal'. Quite rightly Dr. Johal reminds the reader that every situation is fluid, even if it is familiar. He doesn't give any promises, but he does make emerging from the pandemic seem possible.
-- Oh, and that other 20% or so, those are the folks who live with long term trauma. And, while we may know a good bit about anxiety and uncertainty, we would do well to read the book, too. Because, sometimes we need to remember that not everyone is programmed to flourish in the shifting unknown.
(And no, I don't know if it really is a 80/20 split - it's a metaphor.)
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 29, 2021
This is NOT just another self help book
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 28 January 2021
Life has changed so much and the feelings of anxiety and coping with the pandemic that is affecting us worldwide has been difficult for me. This fantastic guide to dealing with stress and anxiety that I’ve been experiencing has been an absolute god send. The author has had so much valuable experience in this field and other areas of disaster management globally, his response to covid 19 is undeniably immeasurable. I’ve been able to use this book to positively help myself mentally as well as being able to distance myself from negative and disturbing misinformation that is constantly being fed to me that completely confuses me. This book is not only about the current crisis that we are globally experiencing, it’s how we can interpret and deal with so many other issues - Small or larger that affect us all. The solutions that Dr. Johal present are not only practical but most importantly do-able. I have struggled with so many other self help books in the past that do not actually give me the tools to do so, this book actually does. It’s readable, relatable and delivers. After being in such a confused rut it’s actually refreshing to feel this way. ‘Steady’ reminds us of who we are, who I am, what we can do and how we can realistically manage our feelings and actions for the better. It’s not often that I feel a desire to review a book but with the current circumstances of lockdown, homeschooling and being a wife and mother, this has helped to deal with feelings of negativity and confusion.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 28 January 2021
Life has changed so much and the feelings of anxiety and coping with the pandemic that is affecting us worldwide has been difficult for me. This fantastic guide to dealing with stress and anxiety that I’ve been experiencing has been an absolute god send. The author has had so much valuable experience in this field and other areas of disaster management globally, his response to covid 19 is undeniably immeasurable. I’ve been able to use this book to positively help myself mentally as well as being able to distance myself from negative and disturbing misinformation that is constantly being fed to me that completely confuses me. This book is not only about the current crisis that we are globally experiencing, it’s how we can interpret and deal with so many other issues - Small or larger that affect us all. The solutions that Dr. Johal present are not only practical but most importantly do-able. I have struggled with so many other self help books in the past that do not actually give me the tools to do so, this book actually does. It’s readable, relatable and delivers. After being in such a confused rut it’s actually refreshing to feel this way. ‘Steady’ reminds us of who we are, who I am, what we can do and how we can realistically manage our feelings and actions for the better. It’s not often that I feel a desire to review a book but with the current circumstances of lockdown, homeschooling and being a wife and mother, this has helped to deal with feelings of negativity and confusion.
February 8, 2021
I recently had the pleasure of reading Steady: A Guide to Better Mental Health Through and Beyond the Coronavirus Pandemic. This book is timely for understanding and taking steps to work through mental health concerns brought on (or exacerbated) by the COVID-19 pandemic.
What I really appreciate Dr. Sarb Johal including are the actionable steps to help ease symptoms in a variety of areas. Each chapter had a thorough explanation of the topic and then actionable steps to try to address that concern. Especially helpful and bookmarked for me: how to create and maintain a routine, improve sleep and handle frustration.
I found myself nodding in agreement with many of the experiences shared throughout the book. This was particularly comforting to know that what I am feeling is not uncommon.
Not often do the citations or footnotes captivate my attention, but this book had me clicking citations and looking to the original source for more information!
I highly encourage you to pick up a copy of this book, as it will likely shine a light into new perspectives and understandings of what you are experiencing while living and working through a pandemic, navigating personal and professional situations.
Note: I received an advance reader copy from the publisher through NetGalley in return for an honest review.
What I really appreciate Dr. Sarb Johal including are the actionable steps to help ease symptoms in a variety of areas. Each chapter had a thorough explanation of the topic and then actionable steps to try to address that concern. Especially helpful and bookmarked for me: how to create and maintain a routine, improve sleep and handle frustration.
I found myself nodding in agreement with many of the experiences shared throughout the book. This was particularly comforting to know that what I am feeling is not uncommon.
Not often do the citations or footnotes captivate my attention, but this book had me clicking citations and looking to the original source for more information!
I highly encourage you to pick up a copy of this book, as it will likely shine a light into new perspectives and understandings of what you are experiencing while living and working through a pandemic, navigating personal and professional situations.
Note: I received an advance reader copy from the publisher through NetGalley in return for an honest review.
February 15, 2021
Consider this your modern-day mental health survival guide during the global pandemic.
Some impactful topics he covered were creating structure, empathy, connection, disconnecting, and the realities of disappointment. As a mom I especially appreciated his insights on kids during the pandemic—including his thoughts on screen time.
The author is a clinical psychologist with plenty of tips for the average person to not just survive but thrive with the daily realities of Covid-19. The “Five Ways to Wellbeing” resonated with me personally and it provides the reader with some great reminders about creating routine and staying healthy during these uncertain times. These five items are: connect, give, notice, learn, and stay active.
**The PDF that I enjoyed was an advanced reader copy granted to me through Netgalley. All opinions are my own and not that of the publisher.**
Some impactful topics he covered were creating structure, empathy, connection, disconnecting, and the realities of disappointment. As a mom I especially appreciated his insights on kids during the pandemic—including his thoughts on screen time.
The author is a clinical psychologist with plenty of tips for the average person to not just survive but thrive with the daily realities of Covid-19. The “Five Ways to Wellbeing” resonated with me personally and it provides the reader with some great reminders about creating routine and staying healthy during these uncertain times. These five items are: connect, give, notice, learn, and stay active.
**The PDF that I enjoyed was an advanced reader copy granted to me through Netgalley. All opinions are my own and not that of the publisher.**
January 17, 2021
This book takes an empathetic approach and gives bite size approaches and allows you to have kindness and patience with yourself when dealing with life during a pandemic. This is so necessary for everyone to read in life. Highly recommend. Especially loved the case studies throughout to reflect and humanize my feelings and relate. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 5, 2021
Awesome read for anyone and everyone. No one has been unaffected in one way or another by covid-19. This books gives great insights into feelings and reactions that the pandemic has caused. It then goes on to provide excellent strategies to help us cope and adapt to the new normal we are facing. Having listened to Sarb’s podcasts during NZ lockdown it is great to have them all together in a book. Thankyou
May 27, 2021
Definitely I am going to give this book 5 STARS!
I will do my best not to give any spoilers.
I started reading the book a day before yesterday and could not put it down.
The reasons are :-
1. Currently in Malaysia the cases are increasing rapidly. Now we have more than 7k cases per day and this is very alarming. This book helps me to manage my thoughts regarding this matter as it is not easy to see babies and children dying due to how selfish some parents and adults are. I really pity the front-liners (my sister, my cousin, my niece, ex students and friends are front-liners)
2. This book provides a lot of tips and guidelines for all ages and backgrounds. For example : People who are working from home (WFH) , how parents can help their children to the new norm , ways to adapt to the new norm for everyone. I find this very useful
3. It validates feelings and emotions that are difficult for some people to under stand. It is ok to take a five minute break to be sad and frustrated with what is happening (demanding jobs, uncooperative partners, loneliness )
4. I also learn new phrases like exhaustion tunnel and anticipatory grief (there are loads more)
5. The most important thing that I learned from this book is how to survive a lock-down. This is important to me as Malaysia right now is full of uncertainties and this messes up my mind a lot.
Please read this book if you are still clueless on what is the right way to go through this new norm with Covid 19 all around us
Thank You Book Sirens for the e-book copy. I really appreciate it a lot.
I will do my best not to give any spoilers.
I started reading the book a day before yesterday and could not put it down.
The reasons are :-
1. Currently in Malaysia the cases are increasing rapidly. Now we have more than 7k cases per day and this is very alarming. This book helps me to manage my thoughts regarding this matter as it is not easy to see babies and children dying due to how selfish some parents and adults are. I really pity the front-liners (my sister, my cousin, my niece, ex students and friends are front-liners)
2. This book provides a lot of tips and guidelines for all ages and backgrounds. For example : People who are working from home (WFH) , how parents can help their children to the new norm , ways to adapt to the new norm for everyone. I find this very useful
3. It validates feelings and emotions that are difficult for some people to under stand. It is ok to take a five minute break to be sad and frustrated with what is happening (demanding jobs, uncooperative partners, loneliness )
4. I also learn new phrases like exhaustion tunnel and anticipatory grief (there are loads more)
5. The most important thing that I learned from this book is how to survive a lock-down. This is important to me as Malaysia right now is full of uncertainties and this messes up my mind a lot.
Please read this book if you are still clueless on what is the right way to go through this new norm with Covid 19 all around us
Thank You Book Sirens for the e-book copy. I really appreciate it a lot.
May 15, 2021
Steady is a fantastic book about how we can all guide and aid ourselves mentally and how to deal with the stress and anxiety during and after the pandemic. It contains a range of useful ideas and suggestions in combating misleading information and protecting ourselves from the bombardment of news. The techniques given are especially helpful for people with already existing mental health issues. Everybody should read this book to have a better understanding of the problems that society is currently facing and how we can all work together to overcome them. The book helps direct the reader in what they're encountering, why they are enduring it, and how to tackle it in straightforward guidelines, exploring aspects that one would never have thought correlated with COVID. This is a book that I will definitely be re-reading in the future because of the extremely helpful tips regarding mental health. This is a MUST READ for EVERYONE. Almost everyone in this world has been impacted by the current pandemic in one way or another and this book is an absolute gem to help us deal with our well-being and how to move forward in 2021. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 11, 2023
Thanks to #netgalley for the ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Dr Sarb Johal is a trained Clinical Psychologist, he has dealt with several major crises in the past years and now he has written the ultimate guide to living life during these pandemic times. I found this to be a comprehensive study of life in 2020 about how we can move forward during the pandemic without being too negatively impacted/consumed by it and how much it has changed our world and the way we live our lives. Steady covers a multitude of topics including mental health, creating positive habits, building structure, focusing on wellness, surviving and thriving in lockdown with family or solo, dealing with loneliness, ignoring fake news and focusing on trustworthy sources, plus a lot more. An informative read with some very doable things we can try to help us cope with all the impacts and changes. Well worth reading. #steady #sarbjohal #tea_sipping_bookworm #goodreads #thestorygraph #getlitsy #selfhelp
Dr Sarb Johal is a trained Clinical Psychologist, he has dealt with several major crises in the past years and now he has written the ultimate guide to living life during these pandemic times. I found this to be a comprehensive study of life in 2020 about how we can move forward during the pandemic without being too negatively impacted/consumed by it and how much it has changed our world and the way we live our lives. Steady covers a multitude of topics including mental health, creating positive habits, building structure, focusing on wellness, surviving and thriving in lockdown with family or solo, dealing with loneliness, ignoring fake news and focusing on trustworthy sources, plus a lot more. An informative read with some very doable things we can try to help us cope with all the impacts and changes. Well worth reading. #steady #sarbjohal #tea_sipping_bookworm #goodreads #thestorygraph #getlitsy #selfhelp
April 8, 2021
This is a useful and informative book giving practical advice and insight into the many different emotions that the Covid-19 pandemic might have unleashed. The tone of the book is friendly, empathetic and relatable, and it left me feeling much more reassured that my feelings are normal. Helpfully, the book covers a range of strategies to help you process the changes we are all facing, to reframe thinking and responses, and to adjust amid uncertainty.
If only this book had been available earlier! I am confident this will help any readers feels more positive, in control and knowledgeable, something we all need at this time!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
If only this book had been available earlier! I am confident this will help any readers feels more positive, in control and knowledgeable, something we all need at this time!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 11, 2021
I was a little hesitant at first to pick up this book because we are so much still in the midst of the Covid 19 pandemic. Ultimately, I was glad I did and I will hang on to this book as a potential point of reference for the future.
The book is laid out in such a way as to walk the reader through the pandemic from the lens of dealing with your personal reaction to it and to deal with the emotions of the experience. These steps could easily be applied to other personal challenges.
I thought this book was well constructed and helpful.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
The book is laid out in such a way as to walk the reader through the pandemic from the lens of dealing with your personal reaction to it and to deal with the emotions of the experience. These steps could easily be applied to other personal challenges.
I thought this book was well constructed and helpful.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
June 21, 2021
Dr Johal gives comfort through this book by stating that different feelings are normal and he gives hands-on exercises to deal with these feelings. We are all going through a though time but we are not as alone as we think. In the end, the book does get a little repetitive but it might just be good as well to get a better mindset hammered into you.
May 19, 2021
I appreciated receiving this book as an ARC, an easy to read guide to coping during COVID.
September 8, 2021
An amazing book of knowledge esp in this time. The lessons are applicable everywhere. Thank you, this was so helpful
March 14, 2024
If I had read this during the pandemic I think I would have found this book more engaging and helpful. But now, if feels like less relevant.
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