A place where people share stories about turning difficult moments, days, and situations around.
Fall 2026
Improving Family Mental Health
Today’s families face unique challenges in supporting their children’s mental health. And many parents and caregivers find that, as they encourage their kids’ well-being, they also need their own resources.
In this Family Mental Health update, we share:
Best Mental Health Books for Kids, Tweens, and Teens
How can adults help children learn how to protect their mental health, especially before they become teenagers? One way is to find and share helpful mental health books for kids. Books offer parents, caregivers and educators a useful way to start conversations about anxiety, depression, bullying, body image and other challenges.
Explore Menderist’s list, below, of 41 recommended children’s books about mental health, chosen to support conversations between kids and parents; caregivers; educators; and mental health professionals.
Mental Health Resources for American and Canadian Families
An introduction to resources for parents and caregivers supporting adolescents, teens, and young adults with mental health struggles. We highlight offerings from leading mental health organizations in both Canada and the United States.
Mental Health Support for Families, Caregivers in Canada
Mental Health Support for Families, Caregivers in the United States
Personal Essays about Children’s Mental Health
Contributors share their personal experience with navigating children’s mental health issues.
How We Helped Our Son Navigate Severe Anxiety
“The promising start to the high school year came to an abrupt end, and my son struggled with his health, then fell into a debilitating depression. Meanwhile, our family scrambled to figure out how to help….”
Helping Family When a Child has Serious Mental Health Issues
“How will I manage the impact of one child’s severe mental health issues on our family? My challenge has been to address that issue as our household has dealt with my daughter’s challenges….”
Teenagers Share Messages of Hope and Empathy
“I left the words of real teens where it was – to keep their feeling of connection through story and life alive.”
Popular Stories
My Journey to Better Mental Health
“As I entered middle age, my mind and body changed — and my stress relievers no longer served their intended purpose ….”
