Some self-help tools are extremely useful however many people try to to do self-help techniques for things that really require the assistance of a professional; (i.e.- depression, suicidal thoughts, chemical addiction, abuse survivor, etc).

I enjoy self-help books, they have helped me, though they have only kinda helped me with Group C people. Who are the group C people?

Group A are the people of intelligence that read self-help books and enjoy conversation on that level with others.
( like me!)

Group B people are the people of intelligence that don't read these books, that we get along with, that aren't critical of positive, motivational, and self-help media.

Group C are the people are the people, irregardless of thier intelligence level that discount and discredit these types of media and often say:

"I don't need some book to tell me how to run my life or my bussiness"

"I don't need you to tell me...."

"Those books are for 'other' people"

In reading of self-help books, etc..and studying psychology, I have found that I know look at people differently. Kinda like putting on those red glasses so you can read the secret message! I look at people's speech and behavior and in my mind, I point and say 'Defense Mech' or 'Wow, how easiy that persons "ID" comes right to the surface!

Keep reading the books,try to associate with positive people as often as possible, try to distance yourself (discreetly) from the negative people.

Do I think self help doesn't work? I get discouraged, but I keep pushing on. Don't lose hope.