A place where people share stories about turning difficult moments, days, and situations around.
Family Mental Health Books: June 2026
Introducing our new list of 12 recommended children’s books about mental health, chosen for parents who are looking for more ways to discuss this important topic with their kids before adolescence. The titles, which consist of two guidebooks and ten fiction choices, come highly recommended by leading mental health groups and children’s literature websites. The books have also received favourable write-ups from top review sites.
12 Children’s Books About Mental Health to Read With Your Kids: Spring 2026
Our new booklist features recommendations from the Children’s Book Council, Canadian Children’s Book Centre, Mental Health America, and Child Mind Institute. All titles receive top reviews from sites like Kirkus Reviews, American Library Association.
Summer Stories
In this collection, four authors share reflections on summer inspirations and the valuable perspectives they gained.
Inspiring Hope in Students
“When they tell you what they would change, it’s important to let them know that change is possible.”
Mermaids and the Warrior: Memories of My Mother
“[I remember] … the way she stared down those mean girls. I saw her as a warrior woman that day, and this is how she taught me to be one too.”
Trees as Teachers: Lessons in Hope
“Where no growth would seem possible, this tree took root and now grows strong….”
Building an Interest
“My father had a very simple policy: all problems were just puzzles to be solved – all puzzles had a solution. The trick was to understand….”
Family Mental Health
Here is an introduction to resources for families and caregivers that are available from major U.S. and Canadian mental health organizations. We also list more children’s books (for ages 8+) with mental health themes, and share family stories about helping young people overcome anxiety and other challenges.
Mental Health Support for Families, Caregivers in the United States
Mental Health Support for Families, Caregivers in Canada
Family Mental Health Support from 12 Step & Other Substance Disorder Programs
Menderist provides an overview of family and caregiver help from leading groups whose programs are based on 12 step or other approaches: including Al-Anon, Nar-Anon, Smart Recovery and Learn2Cope.
Winter Reading: 10 Children’s Books with Mental Health Themes
“Finn Connelly is nothing like his dad, a star athlete and firefighter hero who always ran toward danger….” (from a review of ‘The Trouble With Heroes’)
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 ….”
Think Big: My Mother’s Enduring Message
Remembering Others in Joyful Times
How to Find Family Mental Health Support When a Youth is Struggling
“After the person affected is getting help, however, it’s common for other family members or caregivers to realize that they need assistance, too….”
