I have worked with children for the past sixteen years and strongly believe that to empower children you have to talk to them openly and honestly. However, this isn't always easy, especially when it comes to the 'difficult questions'-those about emotions, illness, bereavement. Can I Tell you about Anxiety? is part of a series designed to encourage discussion between parents and professionals and young people.
We are introduced to Megan, a ten year old with anxiety issues. She talks about how anxiety affects her every day life-her ability to socialise, the physical manifestations of panic attacks, how others perceive her anxiety. This case study approach makes the book more relatable. Can I Tell you about Anxiety? gives plenty of facts about how anxiety is a very real illness, and far more common than many people realise, and that it can impact on confidence, self esteem and education.
I was surprised by how accessible this book was. I could imagine using it with KS2 or KS3 pupils, and perhaps as a prompt or to dip in and out of with younger children (KS1). As someone who has first hand experience of anxiety, there were times where I found this difficult to read. However, it gives information in a sensitive, age appropriate way and I am sure that not only children will benefit from this book- parents, teachers and health care professionals will learn a lot about anxiety and the coping strategies sufferers use in every day situations.
The book closes with a helpful list of website and organisations to support young people with anxiety.
This would be a useful resource for anyone wanting an introduction to anxiety, also touching on PTSD, OCD and depression.
Can I Tell You about Anxiety? is out now, published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
With thanks to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
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