Clinical psychologist Hays offers this self-help guide to developing long-term strategies for dealing with stress and nurturing mental health. Based on principles of cognitive-behavioral therapy, the book begins by showing how to assess strengths that can be used for self-support in difficult times and define well-being in an individualized way. Understanding internal and external stress and the mind-body connection are covered next. The third part discusses "thought traps" and pinpoints how to catch unproductive thought patterns and redirect constructively. Finally, concrete action on one's environment, built on a foundation of personal meaning and cognitive control, is addressed to complete the discussion of self-care. Annotation ©2013 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)