self-help

noun

ˈself-ˈhelp 

 Southern also  ˈhep

: the action or process of bettering oneself or overcoming one's problems without the aid of others

especially : the coping with one's personal or emotional problems without professional help

self-help adjective

Examples of self-help in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In an apparent attempt to remain focused, Brown was seen reading a self-help book during the Eagles’ wild-card game with it now being the top-selling book on Amazon. —Ben Morse, CNN, 16 Jan. 2025

In December, Michelle teared up on The Jennifer Hudson Show after bringing up her mother, saying that Robinson inspired her new self-help guide, Overcoming: A Workbook. —Kyler Alvord, People.com, 15 Jan. 2025

The self-help expert’s guide to building good habits and breaking bad ones via tiny changes in behavior. —The California Independent Booksellers Alliance, Los Angeles Times, 15 Jan. 2025

Nonfiction, on the other hand, introduces you to fascinating topics—from history and science to self-help and personal growth. —Mark Travers, Forbes, 15 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1628, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

self-help

noun

ˈself-ˈhelp

: the act of bettering oneself or overcoming one's problems without aid of others

Legal Definition

self-help

noun

ˈself-ˈhelp

: the act of redressing or preventing a wrong by one's own actions rather than through legal proceedings

Note: The Uniform Commercial Code permits creditors to repossess collateral by self-help if it can be done without a breach of the peace.