“Full of Helpful, Practical Advice”
This is an abridged version of my original review, which is available at: https://www.lifeisstory.com/nonfiction/disentangled-taming-your-thoughts-and-feelings-to-live-freely-for-jesus-jo-johnson/
3.5 stars, rounded up for the right audience.
Jo Johnson is a Christian psychologist, and in this book, she shares paradigm shifts and practical tips that can help people deal with difficult emotions and unhealthy thinking patterns. She shows how the Bible and psychology work together to help us understand ourselves and feel less "stuck" in our negative thoughts and difficult emotions.
Johnson writes in a casual, conversational style, and her vulnerable sharing about her own mental mess can help people feel seen and supported. This book is engaging and easy to read, with short chapters and lots of practical insights. Each chapter concludes with some exercises to try, as well as a spiritual reflection section. Johnson suggests Bible verses to read, hymns to listen to, and things to pray about, all based on that chapter's topic. With some of the practical exercises, I didn't find the acronyms for them memorable, so I recommend taking notes on the steps.
This book introduces important concepts and can be helpful for anyone, but people with more serious mental health issues should know that if the advice in this book doesn't cut it, that isn't a failure on their part. I wish that the author had recommended some additional resources in the book for people who need more intense help.
This is a great book for Christians who feel a bit skeptical about psychology, but want to learn practical skills for better managing their thoughts and feelings. The author shows that instead of punishing yourself with self-blame or trying to think your way out of your problems, you can accept grace and take practical steps towards greater awareness, balance, and healing.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
