
Reach for this book when your teenager is struggling with their own mental health diagnosis, feels misunderstood by their peers, or is curious about how different brains work. It functions as a supportive toolkit for families looking to dismantle the stigma of the word crazy and replace it with honest conversation. Through a collection of essays, comics, and personal lists from thirty-three diverse contributors, the book explores experiences with depression, anxiety, OCD, and more. It is a deeply validating resource that mirrors the complexities of the teenage experience while offering a sense of community and hope. Parents will appreciate the way it normalizes seeking help and encourages empathy for oneself and others during the challenging high school years.
Frank discussions of depression, anxiety, and the struggle to find wellness.
Mentions of medication and substance use as a coping mechanism in some essays.
Descriptions of clinical depression and anxiety, mentions of self-harm, eating disorders, suicidal ideation, and descriptions of hospitalizations or intense medical treatments for mental health.
A thirteen to sixteen year old who has recently received a mental health diagnosis or is currently feeling "othered" by their own brain. This is for the teen who feels like they are the only person in their peer group struggling to keep their head above water.
Parents should be aware that the essays are raw and honest. They should preview the sections on eating disorders and self-harm if their child has specific vulnerabilities in those areas. The book is best read alongside a trusted adult or with an open door for follow-up questions, though it is accessible enough to be read independently. A parent might notice their child withdrawing, expressing frustration that no one understands them, or using self-deprecating language regarding their own intelligence or mental stability.
A younger teen (13-14) will likely focus on the relatable personal anecdotes and the validation of their feelings. An older teen (17-18) will better appreciate the nuances of the social stigma and the linguistic analysis of how we talk about mental health in society.
Unlike clinical guides, this book prioritizes personal voice and artistic expression. It features a remarkably diverse set of contributors, including many LGBTQ+ and BIPOC voices, ensuring that mental health is not presented through a singular, monolithic lens.
This is a nonfiction anthology featuring thirty-three contributors, including actors, athletes, and authors, who share their personal lived experiences with mental illness and neurodivergence. Through essays, comics, lists, and illustrations, the book explores various conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, and eating disorders, while interrogating the linguistic impact of the word crazy.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a review