Difficult Topics for Kids: Anxiety and Mental Health

Sometimes we have to learn about difficult things like anxiety and mental health. This list of books can help us start the conversation.

Updated October 28, 2025
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Buffalo and Erie County Public Library
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Malik's number thoughts : a story about OCD
Rompella, Natalie
Paper Book
A determined boy learns to manage his OCD. Malik's obsessive-compulsive disorder means his brain wants him to do everything on the count of four. When he's invited to a mini golf birthday party, Malik is excited. But he worries about his Number Thoughts. If he has to take four tries...
Missing Momma
Bingham, Winsome
Paper Book
A tender picture book about a veteran's PTSD and a family's love for each other--on good days and hard days--from award-winning creators Winsome Bingham and Rahele Jomepour Bell Momma wears combat boots, a camouflage jacket, and a U.S. ARMY tag on her chest. She is a fighter...
Please be OK : a story about addiction
O'Neill, Diane
Paper Book
A brother's drug use impacts his relationship with his younger sister. Fiona has always looked up to her big brother, Dylan. But lately, Dylan has stopped spending time with her. He's always hiding in his room or fighting with Mom and Dad, and sometimes the way he...
Pocket full of sads
Davidson, Bradley Justin
Paper Book
A uniquely humorous approach to sadness, this picture book helps kids understand this big, heavy feeling while encouraging mindfulness and exploring what it means to be a good friend. Rabbit is SO excited to go fishing with Bear. But Bear's not feeling up to it. . . . He's...
Ruby finds a Worry
Percival, Tom
Paper Book
What do you do when a worry won't leave you alone? This beloved picture book from the Big Bright Feelings series is perfect for reassuring young readers in times of stress. Meet Ruby-a happy, curious, imaginative girl. But one day, she finds something unexpected: a Worry. It's...
After the fall : how Humpty Dumpty got back up again
Santat, Dan
Paper Book
An inspirational gift about bravery and pursuing your dreams! After the Fall is an affirming story of triumph and overcoming fears, told through a clever twist on the beloved classic Humpty Dumpty. From the New York Times-bestselling creator of...

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