Books About Depression
There are very few books that are written about depression at a child’s reading level. Most of the books on this list are about feelings that are often associated with depression such as sadness, loneliness, and fear. The use of these books is one way for you to help your child to name and express his/her feelings.
Depression
Rowe, John. I Want a Hug. ISBN# 978-0698400641. The story of Elvis, a prickly creature who wants to be hugged. Illustrates what it means to reach out to someone.
Segal, John. Lonely Moose. ISBN# 978-1423101734. The story of a lonely moose who is befriended by a bird.
Moroney, Trace. When I’m Feeling Sad. ISBN# 978-0769644264. The story of rabbit who knows how it feels to be sad.
Curtis, Jamie Lee. Today I Feel Silly. ISBN# 978-0060245603. A book that explores thirteen different feelings. This book can help depressed to recognize some feelings that s/he may have. It can also remind children that all feelings need to be acknowledged.
Willis, Jeanne. Misery Moo. ISBN# 978-0805076721. The story of a lonely cow who is befriended by a lamb. Illustrates how friendships can help you feel better.
Khalsa, Kathy. Taking Depression to School. ISBN# 978-1891383229 . A book that simplifies the concept of depression to help children understand the condition. Reinforces the fact that children with depression are loved and accepted just the way they are.
Ladwig, Tim. Psalm 23. ISBN#978-0802851635. An illustrated picture book of this comforting psalm which will remind a depressed child that God is beside him/her through everything.
Delval, Marie-Helene. Psalms for Young Children. ISBN#978-0802853226. A book of psalms written in simple language that children can understand. These psalms cover a wide range of feelings some of which are associated with depression.
Gliori, Debi. No Matter What . ISBN# 978-0152020613. A story that offers the reassuring comfort of a parent’s unconditional love.
Jones, Mark Francisco Bozziti. God Thought of You. ISBN# 978-0819219879. A precious story to remind any child that s/he is a beloved child of God and has always been known by God.
Martin, Magy. When Devon Met Oz: Helping Children Cope with Depression. ISBN# 978-0882823041 The story of a boxer named Oz who meets a depressed child named Devon in the park. Includes reassuring advice for both children and their parents.
Bibliography prepared by Marcia A. Rauch, Union-PSCE in Charlotte.
Books About Depression by Storypath is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.
