It’s amazing how sometimes the right book can come into your life at the perfect moment. While “Feeling Low” is primarily aimed at younger children (3-12 yrs), its message and symbolism resonated deeply with our family. We have been grappling with teenage anxiety and depression in our household, and this book couldn’t have arrived at a better time.
The transition in the book’s images, from dark and miserable to bright and colorful, struck a chord with us. It beautifully encapsulated the hope we hold for our teen, just like the character in the book we hope our daughter gets the color back into her life and finds their rainbow at the end of their struggles with depression and sadness.
“Feeling Low” is a reminder (for all ages) that even during the darkest times, there is the potential for transformation and healing. The intention of this book is for the reader to relate to the child in the book, and understand that they are not alone in “feeling low” and how are some ways to get help with “feeling low”, I feel this book will also remind parents and caregivers that they are not alone in their struggle and there is hope for their child too.
I feel that this book is valuable not only for children who have already been diagnosed with depression or clearly exhibit signs of “feeling low,” but its true significance lies in being readily available for children to turn to when they begin to experience those feelings of sadness and low mood. As parents, teachers and caregivers, we think that we will always see the signs of our children struggling, but the truth is we do not and often it is too late.
The authors hope that “Feeling Low” serves as a simple and easily digestible message for families to share. They want children to understand that they have agency over their health and well-being and can make choices with long-term positive effects. Additionally, the book gently introduces young readers to the professionals who can assist them along the way.
The authors plan to release another book titled “My Sister/Brother has a disability” in December.
Authors Natasha and Chrys McDuffie have collaborated to create a children’s book titled “Feeling Low,” aimed at kids aged 3-12. The book serves as a valuable resource for raising awareness about mental health and offering support strategies for both children and their families.
Natasha, who has a diverse professional background as both an Art therapist and an Occupational therapist, is deeply passionate about prevention in the realm of health and wellbeing. She believes that providing skills and knowledge while normalizing health and well-being from an early age is crucial.
Chrys McDuffie, a HR professional with over twenty years of experience, and author of two children’s books, shares Natasha’s passion for mental health and wellbeing advocacy. She saw the need for a book that addresses these issues in a way that children can understand and relate to.
To purchase a copy of “Feeling Low,” both hard copies and eBooks are available for purchase online through Amazon.com