How to Eat an Elephant

The life-changing power of managing anxiety, one bite at a time

By: India Sturgis

The life-changing power of managing anxiety, one bite at a time.

In 2018, India Sturgis – successful journalist, mother and wife – was admitted into the Priory hospital with anxiety so crippling she was deemed a risk to herself. On her slow journey back to herself, it became clear to her that anxiety doesn’t discriminate, anyone can suffer from it regardless of external circumstances – but anyone can learn to cope with it too.

On her personal journey to uncover the coping strategies that work, India tried every imaginable avenue: antidepressants, benzodiazepines, psychotherapy, group therapy, art therapy, drama therapy, CBT, aromatherapy, mindfulness, meditation, hypnosis, EFT, talking therapy, cranial electrotherapy stimulation, neurofeedback, photobiomodulation, supplements, changing her diet, yoga, cold water swimming and more. She combines this personal exploration with the latest medical and lifestyle thinking from world leading experts to produce a clear-sighted, comprehensive and – ultimately – human look at anxiety. This is what it’s like to be in the grip of chronic anxiety – and come out the other side.

Critic reviews

'I loved it. I truly mean every word of this quote! Categorically the most useful book I have ever read about how to navigate, manage and make friends with your anxiety. Fascinating, packed with research, and a complete salve. Has already become a really important book in my life. (I wish I'd had it ten years ago!).' Pandora Sykes, Author, journalist & broadcaster

'How to Eat and Elephant is the best book on anxiety I know. India Sturgis captures the nature and lived experience of clinical anxiety in all its forms, and does so with warmth, intelligence and balance. Her book doesn't merely inform but also offers practical hope, bringing the confusing jumble of available treatments and self-help techniques into sharper focus. Sturgis's emphasis on simplifying, slowing down and patiently finding out what works for the individual is excellent. Elephant should be on the menu for anyone who struggles with anxiety or knows someone living that struggle. The book will change lives.' Prof Nick Haslam, Professor of Psychology at the University of Melbourne, Australia.

'This will be of enormous help to those who suffer from anxiety, insomnia and mental wellbeing difficulties. A truly needed book that de-stigmatises fear, worry and panic, and is both compelling and very well researched.' Dr Stephen Pereira MD, FRCPsych, DPM, MSc, MBBS, Consultant psychiatrist and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy Specialist

'A very approachable read and more importantly, a strong message about hope.' Dr Shruthi Guruswamy Mb Bch BAO MSc MRCPsych