The myth of normality

In this groundbreaking book, Dr. Gabor Maté explains how Western societies, which pride themselves on their healthcare systems, are failing to address chronic disease. Seventy percent of Americans take at least one prescription drug, while in Europe 30 percent of the population has been diagnosed with high blood pressure. At the same time, more and more teenagers around the world are suffering from mental illness. So what is really “normal” when it comes to health?

After four decades of clinical experience, Dr. Maté believes that the prevailing concept of “normal” is wrong, as this concept ignores the impact that trauma, stress and modern lifestyle have on our health. Despite all the know-how and technological advancements, Western medicine often fails to treat the person as a whole, ignoring how everyday life stresses the body, burdens the immune system and undermines emotional balance.

Now Dr. Maté offers his own perspective, debunking common myths about what makes us sick, and connecting human ailments to the declining state of the societies we live in. Myth of the Normal is Dr. Gabor Maté's most ambitious book – a guide to health and healing, full of compassion and understanding.

They wrote about the book:

"Gabor Maté takes us on an epic journey, where we discover how our emotional well-being and social well-being (in other words, our lifestyle) are closely intertwined with health, illness, and addictions. This compelling, well-written book has profound implications for all aspects of our lives."

— Bessel A. van der Kolk, MD, bestselling author The body doesn't forget

"Wise, meticulous, and subversive: a spiritual and compassionate inquiry into who we are and who we can become. Essential reading for anyone with a past and a future."

— Tara Westover, bestselling author Educated

"Gabor Maté reveals what happens when an entire society becomes addicted to pharmaceuticals and how we can heal collectively. The Myth of the Normal "It is a book for today – in fact, it is the most timely book of our time. Read it and find out why."

— Peter A. Levine, author of the book The awakening of the tiger

“A riveting analysis of the relationship between illness, trauma, and capitalism […]. Maté draws on an impressive body of research to highlight the connection between health and social influences, as well as the mind-body interaction.”

— Publishers Weekly