Supporting Young Readers with Mental Health Issues
YA services coordinator and founder of the Teen Librarian Toolbox blog Karen Jensen shares suggestions for creating a safe and supportive atmosphere in which teens can find support — both in person and in print. Tips include creating YA reading lists and book clubs with a mental health focus, and educating library staff on the wide array of psychological and emotional issues facing young patrons.
Those who work with youth in libraries must be aware of the prevalence of and types of mental health issues facing teens. We need to educate our staff members, particularly our frontline staff, who interact with our teens on a daily basis. This knowledge, coupled with an understanding of normal adolescent development, can help create a culture of empathy. (School Library Journal)
