I agree with Brinkmann's disdain about a great deal of self help approaches, especially as they relate to simple solutions for complex illnesses and problems. However, it seems that his list of "Dos and Don't"s has the same "self (don't) help, "promises for well being. He's even got his own self help book--just with a different message.

An excessive preoccupation with oneself is toxic. The term "mental illness" is unfortunate since. it puts the suffering in the

"mental" or cognitive realm, which then lends itself to the notion that if the problems lie within the "self" that they are amenable to a barrage of self help techniques.

I think this is an insult to sufferers.

However the idea that suppressing feelings is a good idea is ridiculous.

Good and interesting article Ryan. Made me think!