I believe that introducing children to mental health through books can be a powerful tool in encouraging open discussions about mental health from an early age.
As a teenager, I've seen first-hand the effects that mental health can have on individuals and those around them. And while mental health is a topic that has gained more attention in recent years, there's still a stigma attached to it that prevents many from seeking help or talking about their struggles.
Books have the ability to educate and normalize difficult topics, making them more relatable. And with so many children's books about mental health now available, it's never been easier to start these conversations with the young people in our lives.
Here are a few popular children's books about mental health that I believe are worth checking out:
1. "The Color Monster: A Story About Emotions" by Anna Llenas
This beautifully illustrated book helps children understand and identify their emotions through the story of a color monster.
2. "I Am Okay to Feel" by Karamo Brown
This empowering picture book invites us to explore the range of emotions that children can experience and encourage them to express their feelings.
3. "I Love you Like No Otter" by Rose Rossner
This book teaches children about self-esteem and the importance of loving and accepting themselves for who they are.
4. "The Way I Feel" by Janan Cain
This book uses colorful illustrations and simple text to explore a range of emotions and help children understand their feelings.
5. "When Sadness at Your Door" by Eva Eland
This gentle book encourages children to acknowledge and process their feelings of sadness and shows them that it's okay to feel this way and that they are not alone.
6. "My Many Colored Days" by Dr. Seuss
This whimsical book uses different colors to describe different moods and emotions, helping children understand the connection between their emotions and their experiences.
7. "A Terrible Thing Happened" by Margaret M. Holmes
This book provides an accessible way to discuss traumatic experiences and the emotions that can come with them, such as fear and sadness. It helps children understand and process their feelings and find healthy ways to cope.
8. "The Anxiety Survival Guide for Teens: CBT Skills to Overcome Fear, Worry, and Panic" by Jennifer Shannon
This practical guidebook provides cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) strategies for teens struggling with anxiety. It covers common anxiety triggers and offers tools to help manage anxiety and improve mental well-being.
9. "Wilma Jean the Worry Machine" by Julia Cook
This fun and engaging book tells the story of Wilma Jean, who is a worry machine. It teaches children about the power of their thoughts and how to manage worries and anxiety.
10. "Hug Me" by Simona Ciraolo
This charming book explores and brings comfort. It offers a positive message about the importance of love, connection, and support in our lives.