The benefits of reading for people of all ages are numerous. Reading increases our understanding of the world around us, builds our vocabulary, and can be a form of entertainment that does not have to involve an electronic screen (though, of course, these days, it often does). Reading has been proven to create empathy within us and improve our emotional intelligence. It can give us space to process thoughts and emotions around our personal lives, and it can be particularly valuable for teens navigating social dynamics at school or family dynamics at home. Reading has been proven to reduce stress levels significantly. A 2009 study from the University of Sussex found that reading reduces stress levels by as much as 68%!
But just because something is good for us doesn’t mean we always want to do it or will do it without a struggle. This blog article suggests a few mental health books for the teens in your life that could impact them in a positive and supportive way, and might even catch their interest!
We’ve included two selections for fiction, non-fiction, and graphic novels, but rest assured, there are many more books related to mental health worth reading.
Mental Health Books for Teens – Fiction
- “Turtles All the Way Down” by John Green, Recommended for grades 9-12
A 16-year-old with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) navigates friendships and self-discovery. USA Today called it “A thoughtful look at mental illness and a debilitating obsessive-compulsive disorder that doesn’t ask but makes you feel the constant struggles of its main character.” A movie based on the book was released in 2024 (rated PG-13).
- “You’d Be Home Now” by Kathleen Glasgow, Recommended for grades 9-12
Synopsis from Penguin Random House: A journey of one sister, one brother, one family, to finally recognize and love each other for who they are, not who they are supposed to be, You’d Be Home Now is Kathleen Glasgow’s glorious and heartbreaking story about the opioid crisis, and how it touches all of us. Supposedly inspired by Our Town, the Pulitzer Prize-winning play from 1938.
Mental Health Books for Teens – Non-Fiction
- “Stuff That Sucks: A Teen’s Guide to Accepting What You Can’t Change and Committing to What You Can” by Ben Sedley, Recommended for grades 9 – 12
This book is based on a type of psychotherapy called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). From the author’s website: “Stuff That Sucks offers a compassionate and validating guide to accepting emotions, rather than struggling against them. With this book as your guide, you’ll learn to prioritize your thoughts, feelings, and values. You’ll figure out what you care about the most, and then start caring some more!”
- “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens” by Sean Covey, Recommended for grades 6-12
From Simon and Schuster’s website: “This classic book applies the timeless principles of 7 Habits to the tough issues and life-changing decisions teens face.” This book offers useful advice for managing stress, self-esteem, and goal-setting.
Mental Health Books for Teens – Graphic Novels
- “Hey, Kiddo: How I Lost My Mother, Found My Father, and Dealt with Family Addiction” by Jarett Krosoczka, Recommended for grades 9-12
From the author’s website: “Hey, Kiddo is a profoundly important graphic memoir about growing up in a family grappling with addiction and finding the art that helps you survive.”
- “Guts” by Raina Telgemeier, Recommended for grades 4-8
This selection is for younger readers than the previous books. It follows Raina as she learns to deal with the physical and emotional challenges of middle school, including anxiety. Scholastic describes it as a “thoughtful, charming, and funny true story about growing up and gathering the courage to face – and conquer – her [Raina’s] fears.” It is book 3 of 3 in the “Smile” series.
Choosing the Right Mental Health Books for Teens
Most of the titles mentioned in this article should be available at your local library, so access should not cost much. When reviewing titles, consider the experiences of your teen and if there could be potential triggers from a book. In some cases, it may be helpful to read the book first yourself or together with your teen. Reading books together and aloud could enhance both of your experiences and open the door to meaningful discussions about mental health.
Reading can be a valuable vehicle for understanding mental health and removing the stigma around it, even within your family. Remember that good mental health is an ongoing journey for all of us, kids and adults alike. Happy reading!
Willow Hills and Teen Mental Health
Willow Hills Wellness offers specialized inpatient behavioral health services for teens and adolescents aged 12-17, helping them regain their emotional balance and thrive. Mental health challenges such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, and more can have a profound impact on a teen’s ability to function at home and school. Our experienced and empathetic mental health therapists are here to support you and your teen, no matter where they are on their journey. Please contact us today to learn more.
