Trauma, Illness & Healing in a Toxic Culture

by Gabor Maté

We tend to believe that normality equals health. Yet what is the norm in the Western world?

Mental illness and chronic disease are on an unstoppable rise. How did we get here?
And what lies ahead for us?

‘It all starts with waking up… to what our bodies are expressing and our minds are suppressing.’

In this life-affirming book, Gabor Mate connects the dots between our personal suffering and the relentless pressures of modern life – showing that ill health is a natural reflection of our disconnection from our true selves.

Drawing on four decades of clinical experience, and stories of people transforming their bodies and minds, Dr Mate offers a hopeful pathway to reconnection and healing.

Filled with stories of people in the grip of illness or in the triumphant wake of recovery, this life-affirming book shows how true health is possible – if we are willing to embrace authenticity above social expectations. The Myth of Normal is Gabor Mate’s most ambitious, compassionate and urgent book yet.

About the Authors

A celebrated speaker, and bestselling author, Dr Gabor Mate is highly sought after for his expertise on a range of topics including addiction, stress and childhood development.

Rather than offering quick-fix solutions to these complex issues, Dr Mate weaves together scientific research, case histories, and his own insights and experience to present a broad perspective that enlightens and empowers people to promote their own healing and that of those around them.

Dr Mate has written several bestselling books including When the Body Says No, Scattered Minds and co-authored Hold on to Your Kids. His most recent book The Myth of Normal- Trauma, Illness & Healing in a Toxic Culture is a New York Times bestseller.

Dr Mate’s works have been published internationally in over twenty languages. Supporters of Dr Mate include Dr Rangan Chatterjee, Bessel van der Kolk, Johann Hari and Esther Perel. He was recently featured in the highly publicised livestream conversation with Prince Harry where they discussed loss, trauma and the importance of healing.