Heads Up

April 1, 2020

Gr 7 Up-This helpful handbook examines the topic of mental health. In easy-to-read chapters, Siebert (who has a Master of Social Work) skillfully breaks down what mental health is and provides examples of different types of mental illnesses, the history of mental health, treatment methods of the past, and how we treat and can treat mental health today. Woven into the text are stories from real people with mental illness as well as the author's experiences dealing with mental health. Small in size and filled with Wuthrich's superb illustrations, this book will be easy to hand to teens looking for resources on the topic. Quality information and tools in the text and inserts throughout the book are provided. However, the end of the last chapter does not feel conclusive. The author's note is more definitive as an ending. A glossary and several resources make up the back matter, including information for those in crisis. VERDICT An informative and nonintimidating work; a suitable addition for libraries needing to add to their mental health collection.-Amanda Borgia, Uniondale Public Library, NY

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Starred review from March 15, 2020
A comprehensive guide highlighting diverse approaches to mental health and illness and featuring stories of teens and adults. From biological factors to Indigenous healing practices, Siebert's guide to navigating mental health is incredibly thorough. After opening with personal anecdotes, Siebert covers the history of attitudes toward and treatment of mental illness, contemporary options for treatment, summaries of common diagnoses, paths to maintaining wellness, and confronting shame and stigma. Throughout Siebert highlights real teens and adults from a variety of backgrounds to help readers understand the material being presented. By addressing the impacts of structural and social inequality as well as biological aspects, Siebert has written a well-rounded guide to understanding mental health and healing in a holistic way. Although aimed at young adults and with a focus on the Canadian context, references to international stories and coverage of issues that transcend national lines, such as the impact on mental health of homophobia, substance abuse, and pressures that leads to challenges with body image, make this broadly relevant for all readers seeking to understand mental illness and the importance of mental health. Filled with captivating full-color graphics that provide information in a visually appealing, bite-sized manner, this book serves as a one-stop guide for the busy teen and busier adult. Informative, diverse, and highly engaging; a much-needed addition to the realm of mental health. (author's note, resources, glossary, photo credits, index) (Nonfiction. 12-adult)

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