The first chapter begins with honesty, such a key theme for our wellbeing. How important it is to be honest with ourselves and with others. Patrick displays honesty and vulnerability throughout this book. When people are honest and vulnerable, it encourages others to be the same, which is really helpful for each one’s personal journey and growth.

Other areas for strengthening our wellbeing which are covered in this book include anxiety, depression, anger, shame, forgiveness and self-acceptance.

This isn’t just a book which gives information on a topic to help us understand it better, personal experiences are shared and it also provides the reader with some practical tools to implement in their own lives.

I wonder if the best way to read this book is to pick and choose the chapters that are focused on the areas where you are struggling or where you feel you need the most help in. It doesn’t need to be read in order, although I would advise that the first chapter on honesty is read before looking at any other chapters. I also think that even if you don’t feel a particular area is of concern for you, to read it anyway and see what you can learn from it. For example, the Chapter on Anger really helped me to understand more about the way I do (and don’t) express my anger and how it can be done in a healthier way.

One thing which disappointed me when coming towards the end of the book was the inclusion of a few instances of swearing, which I believe is totally unnecessary in a book like this. In my opinion, a book which has been written by a Christian writer and published by a Christian publishing company has no need to include bad language within their books. Personally, I felt it let the book down. It doesn’t add anything, but for me detracts from the book. I am including this point in my book review as I know there are others who would feel the same way I do. I believe the inclusion of swearing can put people off purchasing a book. It certainly has a big impact on my decision of whether to buy or not buy a book.

I was given a free copy of this book from Netgalley in return for an honest review.

Accessible and honest Brighter Days is a practical toolkit filled with wisdom and advice on mental health and well-being from Regan's own experiences.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!

Review of Brighter Days By Patrick Regan

Brighter Days by Patrick Regan is a book that revolves around mental well-being. It's a book that gives steps and demonstrations of how to cope with life's challenges and their aftermath. The author creates a professional awareness of the different negative responses that we go through sometimes; not able to recognize or even put a finger on the particular feelings, he brings them up on the surface and gives different ways of coping with them. The book offers ways of dealing with anxiety, depression, shame, anger, self-acceptance, and forgiveness, just to mention a few.

What I like about the book is the way the author is well-informed about the subject of mental wellness. It shows in how he tackles different emotions comprehensively and with a firm touch of professionalism. I also like the way the author can get to the readers and show them that being “vulnerable and even having mental issues just implies that they are human”; the encouragement and lifting of people's spirits, like on page 30, "scars spoke of the battles he had been through and that he didn’t need to be ashamed of them." and p. 42 "If you struggle with anxiety, I want you to know that you are loved, you are valued, and you have a massive contribution to make to the world. You aren’t weak. Chances are, your anxiety comes from a place of caring deeply." Readers will find more of these in the book.

I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars.

I recommend the book Brighter Days by Patrick Regan to every one of us. I would classify it as a valuable book that everybody needs to read because life happens to every one of us, the rich, the poor, the famous, the infamous, and people from all walks of life, regardless of our social status. This is not a book to be read in a hurry; it's a book that you need to read as you ponder, asking yourself life's questions, especially those deep questions that you have attempted to conceal even from yourself. At the end of the book, you’ll find that you have known and appreciated yourself better, bringing brighter days into your life.

Thanks to Netgalley, the publishers and Patrick Regan for the ARC! I never request self help off Netgalley, and I was worried I wouldn't DNF any of the random self-help books I requested. I am slowly working my way through this book. I'm working to really understand Patrick's words, and reflect on some of the things he said. This book has been helpful for me in ensuring that I am well and am shooting for brighter days, even if those days seem lightyears away. I still need to work on my positive thinking... So hopefully I build on that while reading the rest of the book.

"Brighter Days" is honest, vulnerable, brave, and practical. This has helped me to not only understand how the common stressors affect me but also how to keep them from escalating and then creating guilt and disappointment. This is how we should all approach mental health, and Regan's book is the perfect tool.

A thoughtful guide to supporting us all through hard times. An easy read written by a relatable author, I liked their real life stories that were easy to understand.

"Brighter Days" by Patrick Regan is a radiant gem that effortlessly weaves hope into the fabric of life's challenges. Regan's writing is a warm embrace, guiding readers through a journey of resilience and optimism. The book is a refreshing blend of personal anecdotes, inspiring stories, and practical insights that make it a compelling read for anyone navigating the ups and downs of life.

Regan's conversational style makes the book accessible and relatable as if you're chatting with a wise friend over a cup of coffee. He tackles themes of adversity, loss, and pain with a delicate touch, emphasizing the potential for growth and transformation even in the darkest moments.

What sets "Brighter Days" apart is its genuine authenticity. Regan doesn't sugarcoat the struggles, but rather, he illuminates the path to brighter days with a genuine spirit. Whether you're facing a personal crisis or simply seeking a dose of inspiration, this book is a beacon of light that reminds us all that, indeed, brighter days are within reach. Patrick Regan's work is a testament to the power of resilience and the beauty of finding hope in unexpected places.

I'm so glad this book exists, there are so many people who could benefit from the clear, accessible and actionable advice.

This is a book full of hope, care and honesty, Regan does a great job of balancing his own stories with that of others and information.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a free eARC of this book

Another honest book from Patrick Regan. A practical book on looking at dealing with our mental health. Take each chapter one by one or those chapters that affect you. No guilt trips here just compassionate helps. Thanks. To Patrick and his publisher. Thanks also to NetGalley.

Brighter Days is a self-help book that exudes a warm and personable charm. It resonates on a personal level, making it a fabulous read for anyone seeking to enhance their mental and emotional health.

There are a few practical activities and tasks as well as journaling prompts, which empower the reader to engage actively with the content. The inclusion of reflection prompts at the end of the book adds a thoughtful touch, encouraging deeper self-exploration. I really enjoyed some of the ideas that this book introduced, such as "Rhino vs Hedgehog," there are many more throughout the book - too many to list.

Whilst there are mentions of spirituality and God, these moments can be easily overlooked by people with other beliefs or atheists without diminishing the overall value of the book. "Brighter Days" shines as a guide to a more fulfilling and harmonious life, offering a delightful mix of wisdom and practicality.