An introduction to the broad topic of mental health for teen readers.
Citing current concerns about teen mental health, Roland addresses teens directly with information and advice. After a brief introduction stressing the importance of paying attention to psychological and emotional health as well as physical health, the author goes on to define his topic. He identifies factors that affect mental health, describes problematic symptoms, and discusses sensible strategies for self-care as well as encouraging concerned readers to reach out for help. In general, the book’s information and advice are sound, if somewhat superficial. Roland covers anxiety disorder, depression, and PTSD in particular and also mentions bipolar disorder, eating and substance abuse disorders, and schizophrenia; he also addresses self-harm and suicidal thoughts. Text boxes highlight particularly helpful background information, including one box on the greater mental health risks that LGBTQ+ people face. Exercise, healthy eating, and sufficient sleep are some of the suggested self-care strategies. The chapter on reaching out includes descriptions of what might happen during a teen’s first visit with a health care professional and different types of therapy. The writer has no obvious expertise in the area and has relied solely on internet sources; given the number and quality of recent publications for teens on this subject, this one does little to stand out. The actual teen experiences recounted come from reports published online. Stock photos show racially diverse teens.
A straightforward if unexceptional survey. (source notes, resources, index, picture credits) (Nonfiction. 12-18)