May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on the importance of emotional well-being and reduce the stigma around mental health challenges. One powerful way to foster understanding and empathy is through stories. Whether it’s a heartfelt memoir, a coming-of-age novel, or a thoughtful middle grade tale, books have the power to open minds and heal hearts. This curated list features titles for readers of all ages—each one offering insight, comfort, and connection for anyone navigating the ups and downs of mental health.
Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman: A touching novel about loneliness, trauma, and rediscovering connection.
Everything Here Is Beautiful by Mira T. Lee – A moving story about two sisters and the impact of mental illness.
Turtles All the Way Down by John Green - A deeply empathetic portrayal of OCD and anxiety in a teenager’s search for truth.
The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath - A semi-autobiographical classic about depression and the pressure of perfection.
It's Kind of a Funny Story by Ned Vizzini - A teen enters a psychiatric hospital after suicidal thoughts and finds unexpected clarity.
Anxious People by Fredrik Backman - A funny and poignant tale of a hostage situation that unravels into a story about empathy and hidden struggles.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky - A coming-of-age novel dealing with grief, PTSD, and emotional healing.
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig - A woman trapped in despair finds a magical library where she can explore alternate lives—and reevaluate her own.
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman - A cranky widower struggling with loneliness and suicidal thoughts finds unexpected community.
Normal People by Sally Rooney - A nuanced exploration of love, depression, and emotional miscommunication.
My Year of Rest and Relaxation by Ottessa Moshfegh - A darkly humorous novel about a woman’s attempt to escape her pain through pharmaceuticals.
Weather Girl by Rachel Lynn Solomon - a charming romantic comedy about a TV meteorologist battling depression while finding unexpected love and purpose at work.
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab - A haunting fantasy about a woman cursed to be forgotten, The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue explores loneliness, identity, and the deep human need to be seen and remembered.
We Are All So Good at Smiling by Amber McBride - A lyrical YA novel in verse blending magic, mental health, and healing as two teens confront their trauma and uncover the truth hidden in a haunting forest.
Yours Truly by Abby Jimenez - A heartwarming rom-com about two doctors who overcome anxiety, miscommunication, and emotional scars to discover love and healing in the most unexpected place.
The Vegetarian by Han Kang - A dark, lyrical novel that explores mental illness, identity, and societal pressure through one woman’s startling decision to stop eating meat.
Girl in Pieces by Kathleen Glasgow - A powerful YA novel about a teen girl’s journey through self-harm, trauma, and recovery, offering a raw and honest look at mental health.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time by Mark Haddon - A bestselling novel that explores neurodivergence and emotional growth through the eyes of a brilliant teen with autism investigating a neighborhood mystery.
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