It's Not Just You

Insights from the Canberra Weekly's psychology columnist

Dr Vivienne Lewis

Why do we worry so much about what other people think?

Why is it so hard to say no?

Why do relationships sometimes feel so complicated?

Why do we find ourselves struggling with confidence, stress, self-doubt or difficult emotions, even when life appears to be going well?

The truth is that many of the challenges we experience are far more common than we realise.

Drawing on her popular Canberra Weekly psychology column, clinical psychologist Dr Vivienne Lewis brings together practical, evidence-based insights into the issues that affect us all. Covering topics as diverse as anxiety, self-worth, relationships, parenting, body image, healthy ageing, grief, loneliness, work stress and emotional wellbeing, this book translates psychological science into everyday language.

Written in a warm, engaging and accessible style, It's Not Just You offers thoughtful perspectives, realistic strategies and gentle encouragement for navigating life's challenges. Whether you are facing a difficult period, supporting someone you care about, or simply looking for greater understanding and balance in your life, you will find wisdom, reassurance and practical guidance within these pages.

At the heart of every chapter is a simple but powerful reminder: many of the struggles, doubts and questions we carry are shared by others.

It's not just you.

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About the Author

Dr Vivienne Lewis is a clinical psychologist, author and academic at the University of Canberra. She has spent more than two decades helping people better understand themselves, improve their wellbeing and navigate life's challenges. A respected researcher, clinician and educator, Vivienne is also the popular psychology columnist for Canberra Weekly, where her practical and relatable articles have helped thousands of readers make sense of everyday life.

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Contents

Understanding Yourself and Your Emotions

Having a bad day?

Coping with boredom

How to unwind

Coping with feelings of anger

Sensing a sense of achievement

Fostering a positive self-worth

How to start your day on the right foot

Mental health goal setting for a new year

The importance of taking breaks

Why can’t I say no?

Leave your phone alone!

Body Image, Food, and Self-Acceptance

Weight loss goals and the impact on mental health

How dopamine affects eating and pleasure

Working with people with eating disorders

Eating disorders in middle age

Self-compassion and body image

‘I feel fat’— how to combat a bad body image day

Tackling weight stigma

How to stop that chocolate guilt

Fostering positive body image

Relationships, Connection, and Communication

Loneliness: Why it happens and how to feel more connected

How to recognise and deal with a manipulator

Navigating disagreements: How to engage in respectful conversations and avoid arguments

How to spot your friendship soulmate

Psychologically healthy friendships are worth investing in

The psychological benefits of being single

Share the excitement: The psychological importance of joining in

The psychological importance of celebrating birthdays

Children, Adolescents, and Family Life

How to talk to teens about alcohol

Being yourself and making friends: A guide for adolescents

A mental health guide to helping your child transition back to school

Taking a gap year: The pros and cons for young people and parents

Dealing with body image issues in the lead up to the school formal

Body image in young people: How do we help them?

Fathering: The toughest job in the world

The psychology of being a mother

Why won’t they ask for help? Helping the men in your life seek help

Work, Change, and Life Transitions

Mental wellbeing in the workplace

Dealing with chronic stress in the workplace

Navigating redundancy

Psychological health in retirement

Busting the myths on ageing

How to keep the holiday feeling going once you return home

Coping with Christmas from a mental health perspective

Preparing for SAD this winter

Sick of being sick? How to cope psychologically when you’re not well

How to psychologically prepare for a medical procedure

Support, Values, and Mental Health in the Community

How to support someone going through domestic violence

The psychological benefits of volunteering

Why we celebrate the LGBTIQ+ community: Mardi Gras across the globe

How to get the most out of your session with a psychologist

Five things to look out for when choosing a therapist

Conclusion

It’s Not Just You

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ISBN: 9781923114227

Softcover, 176 pages

Released July 2026