The answer is yes...and no. There is a plethora of self-help materials that claim to do everything from bolstering self-esteem to escaping abuse. As a genre, these books run the gamut, and like everything, there are lots of ineffectual ones interspersed with those that have merit.
Of course, it must be stated, in some cases-the book may not be enough. For example, a person must be physically and emotionally capable of helping themselves. A book is simply a bound bit of information. It is up to the reader to accept advice and make personal changes if they are able. There are serious issues that may be beyond a person and a book to conquer, without the help of a counselor or physician. Issues like physical abuse may require more help than a book can actually offer.
Many self-help books can be illuminating, however, and shed light on behaviors and offer insight and encouragement for change. It is important to choose books that have been written by reputable sources and published by reputable publishers. In most cases, the information desk at book stores and libraries can be a valuable resource that can narrow down the best choices.
Keep in mind that the self-help genre is an immensely popular one. This means that many authors can easily jump on the lucrative bandwagon and sell books with attractive titles. Controversial titles that grab the reader's attention may not always contain the most effective advice, although they might be entertaining to read.
Do self-help books really help? We'll have to leave that one up to the individual reader to decide.
