Rest: Creating Space for Soul RefreshmentHeatherIn 'Rest: Creating Space for Soul Refreshment', Heather Nelson has given those who need spiritual refreshment precisely that in 31 devotions to help renew and refresh the soul. This is an excellent series of devotions which help those with particular struggles meet Christ in their moment of need.
Tending To My ThoughtsSharon Hastings'Tending to My Thoughts' is Sharon Hastings' sequel to 'Wrestling with My Thoughts' which tells the story of how Sharon moved from schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and schizoaffective disorder to not only finding strength but also recovery. Sharon is a survivor and inspiration for anyone suffering from complex mental illness, and she writes to offer encouragement to those walking the same path or those caring spiritually or physically for those who are.
Understanding TraumaSteve MidgleyIn 'Understanding Trauma', Steve Midgley (a trained psychiatrist and experienced pastor) explores the difficult subject of trauma and helps the reader understand what it is and how we can better care for sufferers. The author doesn't presume any prior knowledge so it's a book that any believer would benefit from, especially anyone seeking to help a trauma victim, or someone they suspect might be. See also 'Mental Health and Your Church' which is co-authored by Steve Midgley and encourages churches to care better for those struggling with poor mental health.
The Creaking on the StairsMez McConnell'The Creaking on the Stairs' is in some ways a difficult read, but that's because we're confronted with particularly disturbing aspects of the author's early years in which he faced abuse and trauma that would last a lifetime. Yet in this trauma, Mez McConnell found hope, and firmly believes that even in the midst of unimaginable pain, there is hope for everyone, including anyone who reads this book. As you read you'll gasp, you'll cry, but you'll also rejoice in the grace of the One who is working in Mez's life to bring full restoration in what he calls the "terrible reality of heaven"! A must-read for anyone interested in abuse and trauma.
How Can We Help Victims of Trauma and Abuse?Stephen N.In 'How Can We Help Victims of Trauma and Abuse?', Stephen & Susan Williams collaborate from the worlds of theology and counselling to provide anyone seeking to help survivors of trauma and abuse with a very helpful introduction. This book shows a depth of understanding of trauma and points to Christ as the source of recovery and peace. This is one in an excellent series edited by D A Carson called 'Questions for Restless Minds', which provides robust answers to difficult questions.
Trauma AwareEliza HuieThis is a book which helps the reader embrace the truth that trauma doesn't define us and doesn't get to have the final word. Eliza Huie understands the dynamics and complexity of trauma and how the Bible informs this area of life, and has written a practical resource which combines this desire to be faithful to God's word with her own therapeutic expertise. This is book written for pastors. counsellors, or those charting their own way out of trauma to a place of healing.
Hope When It HurtsKristen Wetherell; Sarah WaltonAn absolutely beautiful book of devotions to guide you through dark time, Hope When It Hurts is compassionate, moving, and thoroughly encouraging.
After CancerHenleyIn 'After Cancer: Thriving with Hope', Marissa Henley gives those recovering from cancer 31 daily devotions to help them come to terms with new realities, and providing them with a resource which helps apply the Bible directly to their situation. This is an excellent series of devotions which help those with particular struggles meet Christ in their moment of need.
After Sexual TraumaCamille CatesThis excellent book is for anyone suffering the lasting effects of sexual abuse or trauma. Camille Cates offers hope to survivors by drawing on biblical principles and counselling experience to present a pathway to restoration. The book is short (112 pages) which is helpful for anyone wanting a quick and practical book to help implement Cates' wisdom without delay.
When It's Trauma?Darby Strickland'When It's Trauma' is a comprehensive, compassionate, and brilliant guide to assist those helping trauma survivors to do so in a faithful and informed way so they are equipped to be as effective as they can possibly be. The book helps identify and understand trauma and offers a wealth of practical advice to help those walking with sufferers.