Collette’s Feel-Good Favorites
By Collette Gibbons, PMHNP, FNP
Welcome to my mental health collection – a curated list of trusted tools, thoughtful resources, and little luxuries that help me stay grounded and balanced. Think of this as my personal mental health toolkit for the mind and soul.
Reading for Rest and Renewal:
• “The Body Keeps the Score” by Bessel van der Kolk, MD – A beautifully written deep dive into how our bodies hold on to trauma - and how healing is possible.
• “Maybe you Should Talk to Somone” by Lori Gottlieb – Insightful, witty, and refreshingly real. A therapist’s journey into her own journey.
• “Atomic Habits” by James Clear – For anyone who’s ever said, “I’ll start tomorrow”. Bite sized strategies that actually stick.
• “Atlas of the Heart” by Brene Brown – An engaging exploration of emotions that shape our lives, blending research and storytelling.
Podcasts that Make my Commute Bearable:
• “The Happiness Lab” with Dr. Laurie Santos – Real talk: happiness is not just about puppies and rainbows.
• “Ten Percent Happier” with Dan Harris – Because mental wellness isn’t a sprint, it’s a mindful, lifelong marathon.
• “Huberman Lab” with Dr. Andrew Huberman - Like hanging out with your brilliant science friend who somehow makes neuroscience cool (and useful).
• “Therapy Chat” with Laura Reagan, LCSW - Healing, connection, and self-care through the lens of a seasoned therapist.
Apps That Deserve a Spot on Your Home Screen:
• Calm – sleep stories for grown-ups. Imagine your favorite actor whispering a soothing bedtime story in your ear.
• Insight Timer – A wide range of meditation resources for every mood and moment.
• Moodnotes – Spot your thinking traps, and reframe unhelpful patterns.
• NOCD – Expert tools for managing OCD symptoms and finding relief.
• ADHD Coach – Because sticky notes can only do so much. ADHD-friendly tools to stay organized and focused.
Self-care Sidekicks:
• Soft eye-mask – Because “lights out” is the new black. I love the Slip brand for a luxurious feel.
• Fidget Toys – Grown-ups need to play too! Speks are my favorite - like a mini vacation to the land of click, clack, and squish!
• Blue Light Blocking Glasses – Your eyes deserve a little TLC. I trust Felix Gray for both style and protection.
• Cozy slippers – Massaging in lavender cream or magnesium oil and slipping into by favorite Bomba slippers always feels like a small act of self-kindness.
A Daily Dose of “Ahhh…”:
Always check in with your healthcare provider before starting any supplements.
• Magnesium Glycinate – A cozy blanket for your nervous system—calming your mind when the world feels too loud.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids - Brain food straight from the sea—because your thoughts deserve to swim in clear, calm waters.
• Vitamin D3+K2 - The dynamic duo: a little sunshine in a bottle, working hard to keep your mood lifted and your bones strong.
My Favorite Mantra:
“Breath, pause, restore” – The real secret? Knowing that mental health isn’t about perfection – it’s about progress. So whether you’re flipping through a book, listening to a podcast, or taking a bubble bath, give yourself credit for each step you take.
I’d love to hear what’s been helping you lately – feel free to share your favorite self-care finds at your next appointment.