Our Favorite Teen Mental Health Books Right Now
This post on Books is written by Victoria Stavropoulos
Navigating adolescence can be challenging, especially when it comes to mental health. Reading can be a reliable companion for exploring these complex issues, offering insights, comfort, and guidance.
Here’s a curated list of some of our favorite books that offer unique perspectives on various mental health topics adolescents face today.
What You Must Think of Me: A Firsthand Account of One Teenager’s Experience with Social Anxiety Disorder
by Emily Ford
A powerful memoir that sheds light on what it’s like to live with social anxiety, What You Must Think of Me offers a firsthand account of Emily Ford’s struggles and triumphs as she learns to manage her disorder. Co-written with psychologists specializing in anxiety, this book combines personal experience with professional insights, making it an invaluable resource for teens struggling with social anxiety and those who want to better understand it.
Darius the Great is Not Okay
by Adib Khorram
Exploring themes of identity, depression, and cultural belonging, this novel follows Darius, a biracial teenager who travels to Iran and forms a deep bond with his grandparents. Khorram’s sensitive portrayal tackles mental health with nuance and authenticity, highlighting the complexities of family dynamics and self-discovery.
Turtles All the Way Down
by John Green
In this deeply personal novel, Green explores the intricacies of OCD through protagonist Aza Holmes. As Aza navigates friendship, love, and the relentless spiral of intrusive thoughts, Green offers a sensitive portrayal of mental illness and the quest for understanding and acceptance.
Speak
by Laurie Halse Anderson
Addressing the aftermath of trauma and the struggle to find one’s voice, Speak follows Melinda as she grapples with the emotional aftermath of a traumatic event. Anderson’s poignant narrative sheds light on the complexities of trauma and the healing power of speaking out.
It’s Kind of a Funny Story
by Ned Vizzini
Navigating depression and suicidal thoughts, protagonist Craig Gilner checks himself into a psychiatric hospital, where he finds unexpected friendships and learns valuable lessons about mental health and self-acceptance. Vizzini’s candid portrayal offers hope and insight into the realities of mental illness.
Start Where You Are: A Journal for Self-Exploration
by Meera Lee Patel
Unlike other books on this list, “Start Where You Are” is an interactive journal designed to help teens and adults cultivate mindfulness and self-reflection. Filled with inspiring quotes, prompts, and artistic illustrations, this guided journal encourages self-discovery, gratitude, and personal growth. It’s a great tool for teens seeking to understand their emotions, set personal goals, and build a more positive mindset.
In Summary
This curated list highlights six impactful books explore teen mental health through memoirs, fiction, and interactive journaling. If you’re looking to educate yourself on social anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, and self-discovery, these books offer valuable insights, comfort, and guidance for adolescents navigating emotional challenges.
Check out our other popular blog posts:
Leave a Comment