Adults are not the only ones who should prioritize mental health. Today, our young people are experiencing traumas like none in our lifetimes. From the pandemic to racism, Black youth must learn to navigate through this hostile environment and having a strong mental and emotional state is the first step. Teaching young adults the benefits of mental wellness can equip them with a valuable tool that will carry on through adulthood.

Check out our listing of books that are geared toward Black youth.

Soothe Your Nerves: The Black Woman’s Guide to Understanding and Overcoming Anxiety, Panic, and Fear by Dr. Angela Neal-Barnett

In Soothe Your Nerves, Dr. Angela Neal-Barnett explains which factors can contribute to anxiety, panic, and fear in Black women and offers a range of healing methods that will help you or a loved one reclaim your life.

The State of Black Girls: A Go-To Guide for Creating Safe Space for Black Girls, by Marline Francois-Madden, L.C.S.W.

The State of Black Girls is a non-fiction piece whose aim is to empower young black girls in the face of the obstacles that stand before them each day.

Unashamed by Lecrae

Two-time Grammy-winning rap artist, Lecrae, learned this lesson through more than his share of adversity—childhood abuse, drugs and alcoholism, a stint in rehab, an abortion, and an unsuccessful suicide attempt.

Not Alone: Reflections on Faith and Depression by Monica A. Coleman

The author speaks from the heart as minister, woman, friend, professional, and person who lives with depression. This 40-day devotional offers a tool that guides the reader back to faith through personal exploration and experiences of strength, hope, love, and spirit.

The Mother of Black Hollywood: A Memoir by Jenifer Lewis

Written with no-holds-barred honesty and illustrated with more than forty color photographs, this gripping memoir is filled with insights gained through a unique life that offers a universal message: “Love yourself so that love will not be a stranger when it comes.

Shook One: Anxiety Playing Tricks on Me

by Charlamagne Tha God

Being “shook” is more than a rap lyric for Charlamagne, it’s his mission to overcome. While it may seem like he’s ahead of the game, he is actually plagued by anxieties, such as the fear of losing his roots, the fear of being a bad dad, and the fear of being a terrible husband. In the national bestseller Shook One, Charlamagne chronicles his journey to beat those fears and shows a path that you too can take to overcome the anxieties that may be holding you back.

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