Title: It’s All About You: A Guide to Good Mental Health
Author: Cynthia Rapazzini, PhD
Publisher: Cynthia Rapazzini, PhD
ISBN: 978-1-959071-83-9
Genre: Self-Help/Health
Pages: 74
Reviewer: Allison Walker

Read Book Review

Author Cynthia Rapazzini’s book, It’s All About You: A Guide to Good Mental Health, is an easy-to-understand and thorough introduction to improving your mental health for anyone seeking to better understand how their mind, body, and spirit intersect to improve psychological well-being. Drawing from her extensive experience in counseling and education, Rapazzini offers her readers clear explanations and guides them through a comprehensive roadmap of the mental health system, ultimately empowering people of all ages to navigate the challenges of seeking diagnosis and accepting help.

It’s All About You doesn’t shy away from clinical terminology but one of Rapazzini’s strengths is her ability to break down psychological jargon into understandable language. Readers will not only be able to talk the talk, they’ll feel confident to walk the walk. This book makes mental health more accessible for readers who feel overwhelmed by the topic. Rapazzini has also included real examples, grounding the information in everyday experiences and giving the book a relatable and more empathetic touch. For example, she briefly discusses her son’s serious medical condition and the barrage of emotions she experienced as they sought a cure for his diagnosis. If a trained professional can be uprooted by a diagnosis, then it must be normal to feel out of control in the face of such uncertainty. Rapazzini advises readers, “I’m sharing my story to let everyone know that sometimes we are not in a position to help ourselves through crisis situations… If you reach out for help, please don’t feel bad. You are doing something that will help you get better, and that is smart.”

At the end of the book, anyone who doesn’t feel prepared to dive into their mental health journey can wade into the waters slowly by using Rapazzini’s handy self-reflection worksheet. Rapazzini’s background in both counseling and education uniquely positions her to connect with readers on different levels. She shines in her clear and structured approach to the subject, her empathy with those experiencing crisis, and her dedication to empowering individuals to take control of their mental well-being. She understands that mental health is not one-size-fits-all, so she encourages readers to make informed decisions about their care and fosters an attitude of self-advocacy.

It’s All About You is a solid starting point for anyone interested in learning more about mental health, whether for personal reasons or to support a loved one. While it doesn’t dive deeply into every issue, the book provides a solid foundation and encourages further learning. It’s a practical guide for anyone feeling uncertain about their mental health or who is seeking guidance on navigating the healthcare system. It’s All About You is a quick read and helpful resource to begin your journey toward mental wellness.

It serves as a gentle reminder that prioritizing mental health is not just essential; it is an act of self-love.