57 pages • 1 hour read
Gabor MatéWhen the Body Says No: The Cost of Hidden Stress
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2003A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In When the Body Says No, Gabor Maté explores the link between chronic stress and illness, positing that emotional repression originating from unmet childhood needs disrupts physiological stress functions, leading to diseases such as cancer, autoimmune disorders, and inflammatory conditions. Through case studies, Maté illustrates how chronic stress and societal factors contribute to illness, advocating for a holistic treatment approach that includes understanding one's childhood experiences and emotional health. This book discusses illness, trauma, and end-of-life care.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Gabor Maté's When the Body Says No explores the links between stress and illness with compelling insights. Praised for its compassionate and thought-provoking analysis, the book offers valuable understanding of the mind-body connection. However, some critics find his conclusions speculative and desire more empirical evidence. The blend of science and personal anecdotes provides a profound yet occasionally controversial perspective.
Who Should Read When the Body Says No?
Readers who would enjoy When the Body Says No by Gabor Maté are typically interested in the intersection of mind and body health, especially how stress impacts wellness. Similar readers appreciate works like Jon Kabat-Zinn's Wherever You Go, There You Are and Bessel van der Kolk's The Body Keeps the Score, which delve into holistic health and trauma recovery.