Top 5 Trending Books for Neurodivergent Individuals Processing Childhood Trauma

As a therapist, I understand the importance of processing childhood trauma to heal and move forward. However, it's essential to recognize that not everyone's experience of trauma is the same. Neurodivergent individuals, such as Autistic individuals, ADHDers, or those with dyslexia, often face unique challenges impacting their mental health and well-being. They often experience trauma throughout their lives due to discrimination, social exclusion, and bullying. These experiences lead to isolation, shame, and low self-esteem. Moreover, existing societal and cultural structures are often designed to support neurotypical individuals, making it even more challenging for neurodivergent individuals to navigate and cope with everyday life.

Intersectionality is another crucial factor to consider when discussing childhood trauma. Neurodivergent people who belong to marginalized communities, such as BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and disabled individuals, often face multiple forms of oppression, which can compound their experiences of trauma. The intersection of these identities can lead to unique challenges in accessing resources, seeking support, and finding healing.

However, resources are available to help neurodivergent individuals process childhood trauma and find healing and support. Here are my top five trending books to read when processing childhood trauma:

  1. The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk- This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the impact of childhood trauma on the body and mind. Van der Kolk explores how trauma affects the brain and nervous system and provides insights into healing through various therapeutic techniques.

  2. The Deepest Well by Nadine Burke Harris- In this book, Harris delves into the long-term effects of childhood trauma on physical and mental health. She provides a comprehensive approach to addressing and preventing trauma, including early intervention and community support.

  3. Complex PTSD: From Surviving to Thriving by Pete Walker- Walker offers an in-depth understanding of complex PTSD and the unique challenges survivors face. He provides practical tools and techniques for healing and self-care, including mindfulness and emotional regulation.

  4. Childhood Disrupted: How Your Biography Becomes Your Biology by Donna Jackson Nakazawa- Nakazawa explores the link between childhood trauma and chronic illness, including autoimmune disorders, cancer, and heart disease. She offers a holistic approach to healing that addresses emotional, physical, and spiritual needs.

  5. Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents by Lindsay C. Gibson- This book is a powerful resource for anyone who grew up with emotionally immature parents. Gibson offers insights into how emotional immaturity affects children and provides practical tools for healing and setting boundaries. She also explores how to develop healthy relationships as an adult.

Reading these books can be a powerful first step in processing childhood trauma. They offer insights into how trauma affects the body and mind and provide practical tools and techniques for healing. It's important to note that while these books can be valuable resources for processing childhood trauma, some of the content may be triggering for some readers. If you decide to read any of these books, please ensure that you have a support network to help you process what you read. This could include talking to a therapist or trusted friend, journaling after each chapter, and taking breaks from the reading material. These books aren’t explicitly written for the neurodivergent community but focus on childhood trauma and have been a practical resource for healing.

Remember, healing from childhood trauma is a journey, and it's essential to prioritize your mental health and well-being along the way. These books can be a valuable part of that journey. For additional support, seek out therapy or mental health support from professionals who are familiar with the unique challenges that neurodivergent individuals face.

Did you read any of these books? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!



Ariel Landrum, LMFT, ATR

Ariel is the Director of Guidance Teletherapy. She runs the day-to-day operations, and is one of our treating clinicians. She writes about mindfulness, coping skills, and navigating the private practice world.

Previous
Previous

Celebrating Women's History Month

Next
Next

The Benefits of Emotional Support Animals and Their Role in Addressing Mental Health Disabilities