The Clock in My Head Never Stops by Daniel Rush

A raw account of a teenage boy battling the relentless weight of anxiety, The Clock in My Head Never Stops by Daniel Rush is a relatable and detailed portrait of silent struggle.

Readers follow Billy’s steps through a typical day of high school, where he overthinks every step of the way, from nerve-wracking moments of class participation and awkward upperclassmen crushes to the self-doubt of team sports and emotional disconnection from seemingly oblivious parents. His unwanted and obsessive focus on time, expectations, potential disappointments, failures, or embarrassment goes beyond the typical worries of most teenagers, crossing into the realm of debilitating anxiety, despite how “normal” he might appear at first glance.

Capturing the intrusive cycles of panic over arbitrary deadlines, social standing, personal identity, academic performance, and more, this short novel gives an unfiltered view of unaddressed anxiety in full swing. The first-person prose is a powerful reflection of Billy’s personality, with the narrative style mirroring his racing thoughts and tangential worries, which effectively brings readers into a similar headspace as the narrator. The pace and sometimes manic nature of the writing can be immersive and recognizable for those who have seen the spiral in themselves or others, but it is also comforting because it never apologizes and never judges.

An encouraging read for young people and adults who struggle with mental health and wellness, this book also provides insight for parents who may not recognize the conflicting emotions and stressors within their own children, for a compelling fictional work that can double as a work of self-help, or an informative guide for family and friends.