Alex doesn’t understand why his dad quit his job as a policeman and would rather sleep than play with the dog or watch Alex play soccer. Is he lazy? Doesn’t he care? This picture book for all ages provides a way to talk with your children about depression, perhaps the most common mental health issue we face. In partnership with the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), this is one in an important series of books for children who “have to cope with adult-size problems.” Children understand more than parents realize, they need to ask questions and get clear, age-appropriate answers. If a parent’s depression becomes a “big taboo secret,” kids often draw their own conclusions, such as they are the cause, they make it worse, or that they may “catch it like a cold.” In simple, straightforward language, this book explains what depression is, how it’s treated, and prepares a child for working with a counselor. Research shows that if kids understand their parents’ depression, kids do better later in life. According to this excellent book, good communication within the family helps children develop healthy coping skills, and make positive choices in difficult situations. Encouraging children to start talking is one of the most important things you can do for them.