Reasons to Stay Alive

By: Matt Haig

Narrated by: Matt Haig

Length: 4 hrs and 16 mins

Publisher's summary

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

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

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO FEEL TRULY ALIVE?

Don’t miss Matt Haig’s new novel The Life Impossible, coming September 2024

At the age of 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.

A moving, funny and joyous exploration of how to live better, love better and feel more alive, Reasons to Stay Alive is more than a memoir. It is a book about making the most of your time on earth.

"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 2016

Finalist for the Waterstone's Book of the Year

"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

"I dog-eared 45 pages in Haig's compact book where he wrote profound or poignant things. I could have easily marked more of them."—Jim Higgings, THE MILWAUKEE JOURNAL SENTINEL

"Wonderful and essential"—Christopher Weir, THE HUFFINGTON POST

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

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.

Thank you for making sense of my feelings

This book spoke to me in so many ways, describing feelings I was having but couldn’t recognize and organize into words. This books did that for me. Highly recommend.

I didn’t know what I didn’t know

I feel like listening to this book provided insight into how my son could be feeling. I feel like I might have been dismissive of some of what he has been going through. I feel like I can understand him a little better. Well worth the listen.

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,

Thank you

Loved this book. It meant a lot to me in my life right now. Thank you.

Uplifting and honest

This book is infinitely readable. I am going to get myself a paperback copy so I can highlight and take notes and circle the best, most helpful bits of wisdom, of which there are too many to list here. Matt’s honesty shines like a beacon to those lost in the woods of despair and this book reminds you of everything that is good about being human, even when it doesn’t feel that way.

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.