Looking for books for yourself or your children that speak to the challenges you are facing? We have suggestions! Read on for book picks for children, young adults, and parents that may help inspire greater self-understanding and self-compassion in the new year.
Books for Parents & Adults
Over the past several months, providers at Intuition Wellness Center have started to choose books to read and discuss together. We’ve enjoyed reading the two books below. They’ve been eye-opening, even for us therapists! We think you might enjoy them too…
What Happened To You? Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and Healing, by Bruce D. Perry and Oprah Winfrey
In this book, psychiatrist Dr. Bruce Perry and Oprah Winfrey team up to provide insights about how traumatic experiences affect children and adults, and how people can heal. They discuss how common mental health symptoms, like acting out or distraction/hyperactivity, are sometimes misunderstood, and may be caused by trauma. The authors explain the importance of looking beyond surface behaviors, and trying to understand what a person has been through and how that affected them.
Atlas of the Heart: Mapping Meaningful Connection and the Language of Human Experience, by Brene Brown
Brene Brown is a social worker, researcher, and author who is well-known for her research on emotions, especially shame and vulnerability. In her latest book, Atlas of the Heart, she breaks down and categorizes 87 human emotions and experiences, based upon her research. She explains the nuances of each, and also provides tools and skills we can use to help us navigate our way through life.
Books for Children
As we’ve shared in a previous blog, reading children’s books related to mental health concerns with your child is a wonderful way to start to have discussions about mental health. If you’re looking for a specific kind of book you don’t see here, feel free to ask your therapist for a recommendation. They may have suggestions!
I Really Want to Win, by Simon Philip (Ages 3-5)
A compassionate tale about a little girl who really likes winning, but can’t seem to win at anything. This book teaches kids the importance doing something you enjoy, and developing your interests and passions.
Everything in Its Place: A Story of Books and Belonging, by Pauline David-Sax (Ages 3-7)
A picture book about a girl who experiences social anxiety, and how she overcomes it. Reading this book with your child may help you discuss anxiety more openly together.
Guts, by Raina Telgemeier (Ages 8-12)
A graphic novel for older children about anxiety and psychosomatic symptoms. The main character goes to therapy, where she learns about herself and works through her concerns. This book helps normalize common mental health concerns.
We wish you and your family the very best in the new year! Stay tuned to this blog for more discussion about mental health and wellness. At Intuition Wellness Center, we specialize in health and wellness services for children, young adults, and their families. If you think you would like some extra support, we’re here for you.
