Have you ever been brave? Have you ever been courageous? At first glance, it might seem that bravery and courage are the same thing but they're actually very different. Bravery is doing something scary without any fear like jumping off the highest diving board at the swimming pool, but courage is doing something scary even when you have a lot of fear. It's easy to give up and just not try something hard when you're frightened, but Simone Biles, gymnastic superstar from the USA, did not. 

Everyone has their own hardships but what happens when you struggle with something that can't be seen? If you're hurt on the outside there's usually a cut or bruise to show someone so you can get help and healing. 

But what if the place that hurts is inside of you? Something that a doctor cannot see. Something only you know for sure that hurts. Maybe you're sad more than usual or anxious, or you're super happy and then super sad in a short amount of time, and you just can't feel better no matter what you try. The grown-up term for this is called "mental health" and it's just as important as your physical health. 

People everywhere, even librarians, like me, have had struggles with mental health. There is hope though! You can have courage like telling someone you trust that you're having a hard time. You are still awesome and you are still strong even if you don't feel like you are, and with a little help, you can still thrive!

Check out these books about kids and grown-ups struggling with mental health. Perhaps, knowing that they are available might help you (or someone you love) feel a little less alone: 

Think about famous people for a minute. They've usually done amazing things and are super talented, right? Maybe they make others laugh so hard they snort, or play gorgeous music that gives people goosebumps. Do you recognize any of the following names? Frida Kahlo, Dwayne ("The Rock") Johnson, Willow Smith, Ariana Grande, Beethoven, Zayn Malik, and Abraham Lincoln? They're all very different from each other but they have all struggled with their mental health. Check out their amazing stories!

It can be really hard when your grown-ups are sad. There are caring people who can give them the help they need, but they are so lucky to have you in their lives, just because.

Did you know that your lungs are part of your body's superpowers? They allow you to breathe, of course (something you don't even have to think about), and with some tips and tricks you can learn how to control your breathing so you feel even better.

Daniel is lonely until he is unexpectedly involved in trying to solve a murder mystery with "Psycho Sara" (*psycho is a very mean word to call someone else and Sara is really cool).

What is special about your mom?

-Cara