I Want to Die But I Want to Eat Tteokpokki

I Want to Die But I Want to Eat Tteokbokki is a candid and relatable memoir of a young woman who struggles with depression, anxiety, and self-doubt. Baek Sehee, a successful social media director, decides to seek professional help after feeling overwhelmed by her negative emotions and thoughts. She records her conversations with her psychiatrist over 12 weeks, and reflects on each session with her own insights and observations. Through this process, she gradually learns to understand herself better, to challenge her distorted beliefs, and to accept and love herself more.

The book is divided into 12 chapters, each corresponding to a week of therapy. Each chapter begins with a dialogue between Baek and her psychiatrist, followed by Baek’s commentary on the topics they discussed. The dialogues are realistic and engaging, showing the rapport and trust that develop between the two. The psychiatrist is patient, empathetic, and insightful, guiding Baek to explore her feelings and thoughts, and offering helpful suggestions and feedback. Baek is honest, witty, and self-aware, sharing her struggles and achievements, and expressing her doubts and questions. The commentary is insightful and humorous, providing additional information and examples, and revealing Baek’s personality and voice.

The book covers a wide range of topics that are relevant and relatable to anyone who has ever experienced depression, anxiety, or low self-esteem. Some of the topics include: perfectionism, impostor syndrome, social comparison, self-criticism, self-compassion, cognitive distortions, emotional regulation, coping skills, gratitude, happiness, and self-care. The book also touches on some cultural and social issues that affect mental health, such as the pressure to succeed, the stigma of seeking help, and the influence of social media. The book does not offer easy solutions or quick fixes, but rather encourages the reader to reflect on their own situation and to seek professional help if needed.

The book is written in a simple and accessible language, with a touch of humor and sarcasm. The translator, Hyacinta Louisa, did a great job of conveying the tone and meaning of the original text, while also adapting some references and expressions to suit the English-speaking audience. The book also includes some illustrations and diagrams that complement the text and make it more appealing and informative.

I Want to Die But I Want to Eat Tteokbokki is a book that I would recommend to anyone who wants to learn more about depression, anxiety, and self-esteem, or who wants to feel less alone and more understood in their struggles. It is a book that offers hope and inspiration, as well as practical and realistic advice. It is a book that reminds us that we are not perfect, but we are worthy of love and happiness. And it is a book that celebrates the simple joys of life, such as eating tteokbokki, a spicy Korean rice cake dish that Baek loves and craves.