Selfhelp

Self‑help, often written as “selfhelp,” refers to a genre of literature, media, and practices aimed at enabling individuals to improve personal well‑being, skills, or circumstances without professional intervention. The modern self‑help movement emerged in the United States in the early twentieth century, influenced by motivational speakers, religious revivalism, and the rise of popular psychology. Notable early works such as Samuel Smiles’s *Self‑Help* (1859) and later publications like *Think and Grow Rich* (1937) set a precedent for advice‑driven texts that emphasize individual agency, goal setting, and positive thinking.

The self‑help field encompasses a wide range of topics, including mental health, productivity, finance, relationships, and spiritual growth. Techniques commonly promoted involve goal‑clarification, habit formation, cognitive restructuring, and mindfulness practices. Many resources are delivered through books, podcasts, seminars, online courses, and mobile applications, often marketed by authors who position themselves as experts based on personal experience or professional credentials. While self‑help can provide accessible tools for personal development, its efficacy varies; empirical research supports specific interventions such as cognitive‑behavioral strategies and mindfulness, whereas other claims lack rigorous validation.

Critics argue that the self‑help industry sometimes oversimplifies complex issues, encourages victim‑blaming, and profits from unsubstantiated promises. Concerns also arise over the commodification of mental‑health advice and the potential for individuals to forgo professional treatment when needed. Despite these criticisms, self‑help remains a prominent cultural phenomenon, influencing how many people approach self‑improvement and shaping broader discussions about autonomy, resilience, and well‑being.