The Myth of Normal

Book by Dr. Gabor Maté (2022)

A renowned physician argues that in modern Western society, it’s actually “normal” to be stressed, anxious, addicted, or sick – because our culture itself (with its chronic pressures, disconnection, and inequities) is often at odds with human needs. He weaves together research and patient stories to show how trauma and chronic stress can fuel everything from autoimmune diseases to depression, and calls for compassionate self-understanding and social change. Maté’s voice is gentle, wise, and unflinchingly honest. For a midlife reader who feels emotionally and physically broken, this book can be a revelation: “It’s not just you.” The burnout and even any reliance on substances for relief are seen not as personal failures but as natural responses to adversity. Yet the book is far from pessimistic; it emphasizes healing, whether through somatic therapies, community support, or reconnection with one’s authentic self. In spirit, it bridges Western medicine with soulful insight (Maté even discusses indigenous healing and the importance of meaning). It fosters a spacious and empathetic perspective on wellness, aligning closely with ancestral wisdom that views the mind, body, and community as interconnected. More about the book and Dr. Maté’s work here.