Andrew S. Hogan has created a five-book series of storybooks for children dealing with emotional disorders and mental illness. Each book in the REACH for the Kids series includes tips for adults on how to use the stories and illustrations when talking to children about mental illness.
Where does the acronym “REACH” come from?
More than a decade ago, I wrote an adult, self-help book that combined both personal and professional experiences and knowledge on mental health. After that book was first published, many of my readers encouraged me to write a similar book for children. The REACH for the Kids series was the result.
What does the acronym “REACH” stand for?
The acronym “REACH” stands the five steps I’ve identified to beat emotional disorders and “REACH” to a heightened life:
R stands for “Recognize the source of symptoms” (Kailee Finds the Dragon)
E stands for “Emerge from isolation” (A Monkey on Ken’s Back)
A stands for “Authenticate self and disorder” (Ami Is Not a Monster)
C stands for “Control the disorder as you are able” (Shawn’s Jetpack)
H stands for “Heighten your life” (Superhero Jo)
How can I use the books to talk to children about emotional disorders and mental illness?
Each book has a unique story of hope and encouragement to those struggling with mental illness and their loved ones. The last pages of each book offer discussion questions which are divided into multiple developmental stages. These key points emphasize how to use the stories and illustrations to teach and talk to children about emotional disorders and mental illness.
What makes the REACH for the Kids five-book series special in the mental health industry?
I not only wrote each story to represent the steps of “REACH,” but I made sure every illustration symbolized mental health issues. The vividly-illustrated stories deal with anxiety, ADD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and depression. The books help children deal with the highs and lows of emotional disorders through characters that are like them.
What was part of the motivation to write this series of books, covering these topics?
At age 20, I was hospitalized twice for manic psychosis and have lived with chronic, type I bipolar disorder ever since. I love to share my story of those two episodes of manic psychosis, as well as the five steps I took to find a peaceful and fairly normal life.
The REACH for the Kids series combines my knowledge from personal experiences of living with mental illness, as well as raising two children with diagnosed emotional disorders. I have also gained professional wisdom from working with children in clinical settings as a mental-health therapist.
What professional advancement have you recently achieved?
I have earned my Master of Mental Health Counseling degree (CACREP accredited). I am currently working as a mental health therapist with clients of all ages, including children, teens and adults. I am also a member of the international counseling honor society, Chi Sigma Iota.
Visit the author page for additional information on Andrew S. Hogan.
Visit the book page for additional information on this product or to order it through our website.
You can Andrew S. Hogan directly at andy@bearcanyonpress.com.