Where to Start: A Survival Guide to Anxiety, Depression, and Other Mental Health Challenges

Gr 5 Up–Self-diagnosis and depression is on the rise. TikTok and Instagram therapists can be unreliable, their advice incomplete. It can be daunting for teens to admit to caregivers that they are struggling and need help. Mental Health America (MHA) has assembled a plain language guide that dispels common misunderstandings about mental health challenges, providing readers with practical guidance. The first part focuses on describing the signs and symptoms of different mental health difficulties. While an assessment chart is included, it’s made clear that it should not be used for diagnostic purposes. The next two sections empower readers to talk to others (including caregivers and professionals) about their mental health. The benefits of live therapy and therapy apps, as well as crisis text lines, hotlines, and warmlines, are made clear before MHA makes an important point: not everyone can afford these options. This is where part four, DIY Mental Health, comes in. While it’s impossible to be comprehensive, the chapter covers common topics, like self-hate, suicidal ideation, and toxic influences, with actionable advice and worksheets. Correll’s illustrations are the perfect complement to this essential survival guide.