May is Mental Health Awareness Month. It is a month to look at ways to improve our mental health and to take a closer look at mental illnesses. The Peter White Public Library has an array of information for individuals looking to improve their mental health as well as to learn about mental illnesses.

“The Anxiety & Phobia Workbook” by Edmund J. Bourne is in its seventh revised edition. This resource gives practical, step-by-step instructions on different ways people can cope with panic, overcome negative self-talk, overcome worry and much more. There are techniques for relaxation as well as many tools to use to improve healthy habits for everyone. Each chapter ends with a summary of things to do and further reading suggestions.

“Depression and your Child: a Guide for Parents and Caregivers” by Deborah Serani is a resource for parents and caregivers who find themselves caring for a child or teen with depression. Serani is informative and comprehensive in her approach to handing this sensitive subject, giving caregivers needed information to guide them as they seek professional help with their children’s depression. Through the author’s real life case studies, families will learn how to cope better and overcome depression and the stigma associated with this diagnosis.

“The Merck Manuals” are one of the world’s most widely used medical information resources. PWPL Library Card holders have access to this resource online. Go to www.pwpl.info and scroll down to the online resources and you will see a link to the Merck Manuals there. You can search by topic or browse subjects if you wish. This resource is helpful especially if you are looking for information about a particular diagnosis.

“Healing: Our Path from Mental Illness to Mental Health” by Thomas Insel talks about the mental health care that is and is not taking place in the United States. He looks closely at the mental health care system now, defines what is wrong and offers clear solutions. Insel also notes that there are treatments that work but we need to make them more accessible to the people that need them. He also addresses the intense stigma associated with mental health across the country, how this can change.

By Amy Salminen

Adult Services Dept.