Reasons to Stay Alive

By: Matt Haig

Narrated by: Matt Haig

From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Midnight Library.

“A very special book that has provided a beam of hope to so many.”—DOLLY ALDERTON

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO FEEL TRULY ALIVE?

Aged 24, Matt Haig's world caved in. He could see no way to go on living. This is the true story of how he came through crisis, triumphed over an illness that almost destroyed him, and learned to live again.

It has helped millions of people do the same. Moving, funny, and even joyous, these are the lessons Matt learned. His reasons to stay alive.

"I wrote this book because the oldest clichés remain the truest. Time heals. The bottom of the valley never provides the clearest view. The tunnel does have light at the end of it, even if we haven't been able to see it . . . Words, just sometimes, really can set you free."

©2016 Matt Haig (P)2023 Penguin Audio

Critic reviews

Named one of Entertainment Weekly's Must-Read Books of the Year

Finalist for the Waterstone's Book of the Year

"Destined to become a modern classic." —Entertainment Weekly

"An in-depth exploration of Haig’s battle with depression, if you need a pick-me-up on a very fundamental level, you could do a lot worse than this book." ―PEOPLE

Info I never knew things I knew, but couldn’t explain

There’s nothing I didn’t dislike. It was so well written and and broken down so people could understand.

helps understanding and empathy

if you have experienced anxiety/depression this will help you understand what is happening and that it is ok to need help, ok for healing to be a long process, how to keep going. if someone you know is having this experience, you will be better equipped to help them.
Read by the author in a very relatable style and not without humor.

How We Save Others!

Honestly, I absolutely related and deeply felt every single part his story- the educational aspect that are vital to help those like us- to understand that there are answers in this book that can teach and guide you in a billion reasons.

I need to mention the beautiful calmness, and confidence he speaks in as he takes the time to address loved ones so many are hurting from their own nightmare of fears. For so many desperate searching anything possible as they to do anything they can for loved ones who need this support! He takes so much precious time writing as much complete , and open education and answers for those family and friends that he knows are also feeling helpless about their loved ones!

I read this so often now- because it Absolutely gives us all the reasons to live.
(Note: the more of us that share these stories with others, the closer we begin to understand what ever actually happens within our minds to make this vital information and research a non- negotiable! We must follow Matt Haig’s lead!! Thank you Mr. Haig - for more than I could ever put into words- you spoke to the unique individual perspective that I have been unable to explain to doctors, therapists, self-help books…. And so many other attempts I’ve sought to Just cry out “Help Me”!
Specifically, he has forever given me a new hope of incredible perspectives and I wish I could tell him “Thank you” in person🙏
I will be eternally grateful for your ability to reach me WHERE I NEEDED TO BE FOUND!-
Jo A. from Macomb, IL, USA

Hes such an amazing author and beautiful human

loved the whole thing of course, as well as the rest of his books. my favorite part was him talking about the belief system. he said things about depression and anxiety I have actually never heard anyone else say. wonderfully mind opening. would recommend to anyone.

Vulnerable and raw mixed with humor

I enjoyed the book and found it engaging considering the hard topic. It is good to hear from a person who has lived experiences with behavioral health. I work in this field and always find myself intrigued by people's determination in the face of pain and suffering.

Perfect Read for Rough Days

Author delivers exactly what the title promises. Wonderful way to turn around a serious funk. This gentleman has done the human race a serious favor with his honesty and incredible courage in writing this book.

Inside view of Depression and Anxiety

So descriptive of the agony, while being hopeful and offering good advice that anyone can use.

Revelatory

I learned so much, and gained insights into depression and anxiety disorders. I applaud Mr Haig for his courage in sharing his story - I have to believe that he has helped so many people in doing so,

Staying alive

This book and The Comfort Book literally have kept me going the last several months, as I’ve waded through the muddy waters of depression and anxiety most of my life. These books are life giving. Thank you.

Not for Me

This book had a lot of straightforward assertions about depression, but there was very little depth to it. I disagree with the choice for the author to serve as the narrator; something in his regional dialect or personal speech pattern made me feel like I was being barked at and harangued.