Addicted to the Monkey Mind by J.F. Benoist

Addicted to the Monkey Mind: A Practical Self-Help Guide to Overcoming Self-Sabotage by Jean-Francois Benoist

About the Book

Addicted to the Monkey Mind is a self-help book that teaches readers how to stop the constant, self-critical chatter in their head and replace it with calm, clear thinking. Through the real-feeling stories of two characters, J.F. Benoist shows how our “Monkey Mind” keeps us stuck in cycles of blame, addiction, and self-sabotage, and how the “Observing Mind” can set us free.

About the Author

Jean-Francois (J.F.) Benoist has counseled people struggling with addiction, mental health, and relationship issues for over twenty years. He co-founded The Exclusive Hawaii, a residential addiction treatment center, with his wife Joyce, and created the Experiential Engagement Therapy (EET) methodology.

Who Is This Book For?

This book is a good fit for adults who feel stuck in patterns of addiction, negative self-talk, burnout, or relationship struggles. It also helps therapists, counselors, and anyone curious about practical, story-based approaches to personal change.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does “Monkey Mind” mean in this book?
The Monkey Mind is the term J.F. Benoist uses for the constant chattering, blaming, and self-critical voice in our head that fuels self-sabotaging habits and addiction.

Is this book good for someone recovering from addiction?
Yes. Addicted to the Monkey Mind was written by an addiction counselor and focuses heavily on the thought patterns behind addictive and self-destructive behavior.

Do I need a therapy background to understand this book?
No. The book uses simple, story-based examples instead of clinical language, so it is easy to follow for anyone new to self-help or personal development reading.