We all love to read books for different reasons. Sometimes we read to escape reality and sometimes we read to see ourselves in a story and know that we’re not alone. This is especially important when we’re facing a mental health crisis. Mental health is such an important topic, and it’s awesome that it’s talked about more in today’s world. People are more open about their personal mental health struggles, and we have a deeper understanding and appreciation for taking care of our mental health. Whether you or someone you know have faced mental health struggles, it’s comforting to read stories and know that you are not alone. And even if you haven’t personally faced any mental health crisis, these books give a greater understanding to the stories of the people around us.
This is a beautiful novel-in-verse inspired by the life, letters, and diaries of the exceptionally talented Sylvia Plath. While you might think you know her story, this brings to light what Sylvia was like as a young adult. It examines her struggles with mental health but also reminds us that she was a woman who went after what she wanted. And being told in verse is such a beautiful connection to Sylvia’s own writing. It’s a powerful portrait about an incandescent writer, that you need to add to your shelves.
This graphic novel memoir is a searing personal account of the realities of adolescence in and out of the “troubled teen” industry of the early 2000s. It’s powerful look at the impact of the labels we’re given, and an important expose. Sofia was sent to a “therapeutic wilderness program” when she was only thirteen years old, because her mother thought she was spiraling out of control and this program would help her. Instead, she found herself trapped in a highly unregulated industry. The graphic novel format further illustrates the message that art can help us get beyond the labels placed upon us, and even more importantly, art can help us heal.
The Other Side of Perfect is a lyrical novel that follows Alina, an aspiring young dancer who suffers a devastating injury and must face a world without ballet. It also forces her to face the darker side of her dream. The deeply moving story takes a close look at perfectionism, the possibilities of change, and the importance of raising your voice.
Beautifully handling both important race discussions and mental health stigmas, This Is My Brain in Love, tells the story of Jocelyn Wu, the daughter of two Chinese restaurant owners, and Will Domenici, a half-Nigerian boy who takes a job in the restaurant. Yes, there is an adorable love story (and yummy Chinese food!) but Will’s anxiety and Jocelyn’s depression are at the forefront. Relatable and complex, this is one you won’t want to miss!
After Leigh lost her mother to suicide, she embarks on a journey Taiwan to meet her maternal grandparents for the very first time. Certain that her mother has been reincarnated as a bird, Leigh expects to find her in Taiwan. But when Leigh arrives, she discovers much more than she ever imagined, in family secrets and her budding relationship with her grandparents. The handling of depression and the way it affects both the one suffering it and all their loved ones is masterfully written and opens up the discussion to the dangers of stigma.
Talented and hard-working, Vân Uóc Phan is both and only child and first-generation Vietnamese Australian, which means her parents have high expectations and great hopes for her future. Attending a prestigious private school in Melbourne on a scholarship, Vân Uóc likes to keep a low profile, watching her crush Billy from afar, and helping to manage her mother’s PTSD, developed after her traumatic immigration experience. When Billy begins to notice Vân Uóc and actually likes her too, they have to contend with the very different backgrounds and experiences they come from. The topic of PTSD may not be the main focus in this magical contemporary romance, but it proves to be an important representation of the nonetheless and one that many can relate to.
16-year-old Mel Hannigan has a lot going on in her life and having bipolar disorder does not make things any easier. Her older brother died, and now her parents are divorced, and Mel is finding it difficult to accept help. Still grappling with her recent diagnosis, Mel is working hard to make new friends at school, while also keeping her struggles a secret. This sensitive and empowering story is a good reminder that not everyone’s challenges are visible.
Devon, a high school senior and aspiring astrophysicist, has just had her heart broken by Ashton, the boy she fell head-over-heels in love with over the summer. When Ashton shows up on the first day of school, Devon isn’t sure if she can ever forgive him. However, Ashton suffers from depression and Devon feels a certain amount of responsibility to encourage him get the help he needs. The mental health representation in this story feels both highly personal and extremely relatable.
For Alex, OCD is all-consuming and frequently debilitating. Dan, an often angry, bullying classmate, sees Alex as an easy target. When Alex and Dan’s parents force the two of them to spend time with together over winter break, we begin to see that getting to know each other a little better can make all the difference in the world. The portrayal of the OCD experience feels gratifyingly authentic, as does the complexities of handling bullying situations.
