2023 Toolkit
Sparking conversations about mental health can be hard. The Read Brave toolkit is a free resource that includes discussion questions, a conversation guide, and activities to help kick-start conversations around mental health in your classroom, book clubs, groups, neighborhoods, and at home.
Books Summary
Download discussion questions for each of this year's Read Brave titles.
Darius the Great is Not Okay by Adib Khorram
Clinically-depressed Darius Kellner, a high school sophomore, travels to Iran to meet his grandparents, but it is their next-door neighbor, Sohrab, who changes his life.
My Grandmother's Hands by Resmaa Menakem
In this groundbreaking book, therapist Resmaa Menakem examines the damage caused by racism in America from the perspective of trauma and body-centered psychology.
Reading Guide and Discussion Questions
Living with Viola by Rosena Fung
A graphic novel from a debut creator is a refreshingly real exploration of mental health, cultural differences, and the trials of middle school.
My Footprints by Bao Phi
Upset after being bullied, Thuy pretends she is different creatures.
The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld
When Taylor's block castle is destroyed, all the animals think they know just what to do, but only the rabbit quietly listens to how Taylor is feeling.
How To Host A Brave Conversation
It's important to lay ground rules when discussing sensitive topics. This will help manage conflict, help participants feel comfortable, and create deep conversations. These tips are adapted from Everyday Democracy. Everyday Democracy helps communities create public dialogue that leads to positive change.
Activities
Breathing Exercises
Breathing and mindfulness exercises can alleviate stress and depression, and lead to better positive emotions. Try these easy exercises:
Suggested Activities for Teens and Classrooms
Suggested Activities for Children and Classrooms
Read Brave Mood Tracker
Read Brave Feelings Monster coloring page
Read Brave Make Your Own Graphic Novel
Additional Resources
Learning More About Mental Health (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
Learn about the warning signs and symptoms, mental health conditions, treatments, and research.
Educational Resources for Kids, Teens, and Young Adults (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
Looking to learn more about mental health or how to engage with youth about mental health? These educational activities and tips are well organized for youth, educators, and caregivers.
Local Resources and Support for Youth (National Alliance on Mental Illness MN)
This is a great list of local resources and organizations that can provide help to youth who needs support.
Mental Health Resources For Grades K-12 Multicultural (Novak Education)
This website is great for educators, mentors, and caregivers working with youth. The resources and activities are organized by the five competencies of social emotional learning (SEL) and by grade level.
Resistance In Color Podcast Series (National Alliance on Mental Illness MN)
"Resistance in Color" invites us on a journey to define what resistance in color looks like. We hear from BIPOC activists, healers, organizers, healthcare providers and young adults to expand on the completed podcast series on how BIPOC individuals practice wellness (Wellness in Color) – now specifically addressing wellness as an act of resistance.
Language Matters –A Multicultural Young Adult Advisory Board Podcast (National Alliance on Mental Illness MN)
Multicultural Young Adult Advisory Board (MYAB) has some great ideas and perspectives to share with the world. The board members share their personal experiences as multicultural young adults living everyday lives in the United States. Join us in conversations about mental health, DEI, intersectionality, social justice and more!
