Open the Dialogue: Children’s Books that Address Mental Health

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. I struggle to write this post due to its role in my life with relatives and friends, professionals. 

So, I’ll share some resources – and, of course – three picture books and a graphic novel to provide support, insight, and open the door to conversations through literature. 

According to the National Alliance on Mental Health, observance of this month has taken place since 1949: “Together, we fight stigma, provide support, educate the public and advocate for policies that support the millions of people in the U.S. affected by mental illness.” 

This year’s theme – Take the Moment – encourages individuals to talk, share resources, show empathy, and work toward understanding. “This campaign also champions the importance of destigmatizing mental health by normalizing the practice of taking moments to prioritize mental health care without guilt or shame.” 

Last year’s theme also resonates: More than Enough. This provides an “opportunity for all of us to come together and remember the inherent value we each hold — no matter our diagnosis, appearance, socioeconomic status, background or ability.” We are more than enough. 

Here are some new releases that address mental health and hopefully provide avenues to dialogue. 

Just Like Millie by Lauren Castillo

Who doesn’t love a dog book, especially when the dog is a rescue, unafraid of the world. A book addressing shyness and anxiety, this wonderfully illustrated book tells a story about how pets can help in times of need.

Anxious by Luciana de Luca 

From my NetGalley review: In this beautifully illustrated book, De Luca makes accessible the complicated emotions brought on through anxiety in this children’s fiction picture book. The colors choices match the feelings the little girl experiences, as she tries to understand what is holding her back from playing, singing, and dancing. There are realistic solutions offered in the text. A “Note to Readers” at the end provides helpful information to readers and young people experiencing feelings of anxiousness.

Today by Gabi Snyder and Stephanie Graegin (illustrator)

The last pages address topics such as “When you’re feeling anxious or worried” and “Appreciating the Here and Now.” With messages of living in the here-and-now and enjoying today, this children’s book is full of wonder and hope. Always.

The Ghostkeeper by Johanna Taylor (graphic novel)

Here is my Goodreads review: 

I found myself thinking about this graphic novel again and again. A positive LGBTQ+ relationship, mental health awareness, dealing with loss, and growing through grief are all predominant themes in this young adult historical fantasy.

Dorian Leith not only sees ghosts, but he counsels them and cures their "rot." While the ghosts seek Dorian, community members see him as an outcast. His grandmother -- who passed away before he was born -- guides him through his paranormal experiences.

When the key to death's door is stolen, ghosts become trapped and turn to Dorian for relief. Will Dorian do whatever it takes to give final rest to the dead even if it costs him more than anything?