Resources listed are for informational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose or treat a condition without the guidance of a mental health professional. If you or someone you know is having a mental health emergency, please call 911 or Colorado Crisis Services at 1.844.493.TALK.
Hey teens! Interested in mental health?
Each month the Aurora Public Library focuses on a different topic related to mental health. Swing by the Central branch teen area to browse YA novels and nonfiction. Whether you or someone you know is living with a mental health issue, or you merely are interested in the topic, APL has information, resources, and reading materials for you.
Remember, your mental health matters.
This month’s Mental Health Spotlight is on ADHD.
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is a condition marked by patterns of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with daily functioning.
The National Institute of Mental Health describes the three categories of symptoms:
“Inattention means a person wanders off task, lacks persistence, has difficulty sustaining focus, and is disorganized; and these problems are not due to defiance or lack of comprehension.
Hyperactivity means a person seems to move about constantly, including in situations in which it is not appropriate; or excessively fidgets, taps or talks. In adults, it may be extreme restlessness or wearing others out with constant activity.
Impulsivity means a person makes hasty actions that occur in the moment without first thinking about them and that may have a high potential for harm, or a desire for immediate rewards or inability to delay gratification. An impulsive person may be socially intrusive and excessively interrupt others or make important decisions without considering the long-term consequences.”
About ADHD:
ADHD in Teens
Everything You Need to Know About ADHD
Relatable + Helpful Articles:
Sometimes ADHD has an unfortunate stigma attached with it. Here’s a handful of common misconceptions regarding ADHD: it only impacts children, it isn’t a real disorder, people who have ADHD are just lazy or easily distracted, ADHD is overly and recklessly diagnosed, you can grow out of ADHD… to name a few.
This is NOT true! ADHD is a real medical condition that can severely impact a person’s life.
Check out these relatable and helpful articles regarding ADHD:
19 Truths People With ADHD Wish Others Understood
23 Times Tumblr Nailed What It's Like To Have ADHD
What is EFT Tapping, and Can It Calm the ADHD Brain
35 Things People With ADHD Want Everyone Else To Know
17 Unfortunate Realities Of Having ADHD
What is EFT Tapping, and Can It Calm the ADHD Brain
TikTok Creators Show the “Real” ADHD
29-Year-Old Artist With ADHD Explains This Mental Disorder In 23 Comics
ADHD Coping Strategies You Haven’t Tried Yet
Explore Young Adult novels that address ADHD:
For more resources for all ages, visit the nonfiction department at your local library and look for the call numbers 616 & 618. Resources are also available at Aurora Mental Health.
Check back in August for our next Mental Health Spotlight!
Resources listed are for informational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose or treat a condition without the guidance of a mental health professional. If you or someone you know is having a mental health emergency, please call 911 or Colorado Crisis Services at 1.844.493.TALK.
Hey teens! Interested in mental health?
Every month, Aurora Public Library has a Mental Health Spotlight. For June’s spotlight, we’re celebrating Pride! A lack of support and understanding from community, family, and friends can impact the health of LGBT+ teens at a higher rate than their peers. Check out your local Aurora Library’s display for stories celebrating queer identity and LGBT+ voices, and visit Aurora Central Library’s Teen Resources display for additional community resources if you or someone you know is dealing with prejudice and hate.
Remember, your mental health matters.
For our June Spotlight, we will be celebrating PRIDE Month!
Pride Month is celebrated a celebration of LGBTQIA+ Americans! Each June, PRIDE serves to honor the 1969 Stonewall riots and works to achieve equal justice and opportunity for LGBTQIA+ Americans. Learn more about PRIDE Month here.
LGBTQIA+ teens face mental health challenges at higher rates than their peers. There are a variety of factors that contribute to this, including stress regarding sexual orientation, bullying, feelings of isolation, etc. While many LGBTQIA+ teen struggle with their mental health, it is important to remember that you are not alone. Many teens have similar challenges and help is available. Read more here.
Resources:
The Trevor Project | CenterLink: The Community of LGBTQ Centers | Q Chat Space | It Gets Better Project | We Are the Youth | Rainbow Alley
Articles:
The Top 10 LGBTQ Social Media Influencers to Follow Right Now
LGBTQ Youth and Mental Health
20 Affirmations and Readings for Folks Raised in Anti-LGBTQIA+ Church Families
Here’s What It Means to be A Demi-Romantic Asexual Agender Teen
5 Mental Health Takeaways From a Panel of Queer Asian Voices
Inspiring Stories of LGBTQ High School Teens
Supporting the LGBTQ Community
What It’s Like to be Out as LGBTQ at School
Explore more Young Adult novels & non-fiction focusing on queer experiences below.
For more resources for all ages, visit the non-fiction department at your local library and look for call number 306.76.
Resources are also available at Aurora Mental Health Center.
Check back in July for our next Mental Health Spotlight!
Resources listed are for informational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose or treat a condition without the guidance of a mental health professional. If you or someone you know is having a mental health emergency, please call 911 or Colorado Crisis Services at 1.844.493.TALK.
Hey teens! Interested in mental health?
Each month Aurora Public Library focuses on a different topic related to mental health. Swing by the Aurora Central Library's teen area to browse YA novels and nonfiction related to the monthly topic. Whether you or someone you know is facing a mental health issue, or you are just interested in the topic, APL has information, resources and reading materials for you.
Remember, your mental health matters.
For our May Spotlight, we will be honoring Mental Health Awareness Month!
Since 1949, May has served as Mental Health Awareness Month. It is a reminder that mental health is essential to our lives and those living with mental health issues or a mental illness are deserving of care, understanding, and recovery.
What is Mental Health?
Mental health refers to our cognitive, behavioral, and emotional well-being. In simpler terms, mental health affects how we think, behave, and feel—which then can affect our daily lives, relationships, and physical health. Conditions such as stress, anxiety, depression, and addiction (as a few examples), can turn a person’s daily life upside down.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “Mental health is a state of well-being in which an individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.” The WHO stress that mental health is “more than just the absence of mental disorders or disabilities.” Peak mental health is about not only avoiding active conditions but also looking after ongoing wellness and happiness.
Read more about what mental health means here.
While Mental Health encompasses a lot, here’s a few topics that impact our daily lives:
Relationships:
Toxic vs. Healthy Friendships: What’s the Difference for Teenagers?
8 Ways Setting Boundaries Improves Your Quality of Life
Sleep:
Healthy Sleep Tips
The Relationship Between Sleep and Mental Health
Physical Health:
5 Ways an Active Lifestyle Supports Mental Health
How Your Mental Health Impacts Your Physical Health
Stress:
9 Quick Ways to Calm Down When You Feel Overwhelmed
Mindfulness for Teens
General Mental Health:
Top 10 Self Care Hacks for Your Brain
5 Charts You Need If Identifying Your Emotions Is Hard
31 Tips To Boost Your Mental Health
Diet, Exercise, and Sleep Are Pillars of Mental Health, Study Finds
The Importance of Gratitude in Time of COVID
14 Top (Binge-Worthy) Podcasts About Mental Health
You Are Not Alone
10 Affirmations for When You Think You're Unlovable
Forgiveness Can Improve Your Emotional and Physical Health
18 Invaluable Pieces of Advice I've Received From Therapists
Mental Health and Coping During COVID-19
Real People Share Their Story:
Make It Okay To Talk About Mental Illness
I Was Scared To Talk About My Mental Health
10 Reasons Why I Talk About My Mental Health
Stay Connected:
15 Best Mental Health Blogs for 2021
Lisa Olivera
9 Instagram Accounts Changing the Conversations Around Mental Health
The Mighty
8 Inspiring, Young Mental Health Activists You Need to Know About
Self-Care is for Everyone
Liz & Mollie
Explore Young Adult novels & nonfiction that address Mental Health:
For more resources for all ages, visit the nonfiction department at your local library and look for call number 616.8527.
Resources are also available at Aurora Mental Health.
Check back in June for our next Mental Health Spotlight!
Resources listed are for informational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose or treat a condition without the guidance of a mental health professional. If you or someone you know is having a mental health emergency, please call 911 or Colorado Crisis Services at 1.844.493.TALK.
Hey teens! Interested in mental health?
Each month Aurora Public Library focuses on a different topic related to mental health. Swing by the Aurora Central Library's teen area to browse YA novels and nonfiction related to the monthly topic. Whether you or someone you know is facing a mental health issue, or you are just interested in the topic, APL has information, resources and reading materials for you.
Remember, your mental health matters.
This month’s Mental Health Spotlight is on Depression.
About Depression
Depression (major depressive disorder) is a medical illness that can interfere with your ability to handle your daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or managing your school work. Depression is common but that doesn’t mean it isn’t serious.
Sadness is something we all experience. It is a normal reaction to a loss or a setback, but it usually passes with a little time. Depression is different.
Well-meaning friends or family members may try to tell someone with depression to “snap out of it,” “just be positive,” or “you can be happier if you just try harder.” But depression is not a sign of weakness or a character flaw.
This helpful article does an excellent job at explaining Depression.
Most people with depression need treatment to get better.
If you are wondering if you may have depression, take this self-assessment or ask yourself these questions:
• Do you constantly feel sad, anxious, or even “empty,” like you feel nothing?
• Do you feel hopeless or like everything is going wrong?
• Do you feel like you’re worthless or helpless? Do you feel guilty about things?
• Do you feel irritable much of the time?
• Do you find yourself spending more time alone and withdrawing from friends and family?
• Are your grades dropping?
• Have you lost interest or pleasure in activities and hobbies that you used to enjoy?
• Have your eating or sleeping habits changed (eating or sleeping more than usual or less than usual)?
• Do you always feel tired? Like you have less energy than normal or no energy at all?
• Do you feel restless or have trouble sitting still?
• Do you feel like you have trouble concentrating, remembering information, or making decisions?
• Do you have aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or stomach problems without a clear cause?
• Do you ever think about dying or suicide? Have you ever tried to harm yourself?
Learn more about Depression here.
7 Facts You Should Know About Depression
Coping with Suicidal Thoughts
If your depression becomes so overwhelming that you can’t see any solution besides harming yourself or others, you need to get help right away.
Asking for help can be really difficult, but it’s vital you reach out to someone you trust—a friend, family member, or teacher, etc. If you don’t feel that you have anyone to talk to, or think that talking to a stranger might be easier, call a suicide helpline - 800-273-8255.
• Whatever your situation, it takes real courage to face death and step back from the brink.
• Having thoughts of hurting yourself or others does not make you a bad person.
• If your feelings are uncontrollable, tell yourself to wait 24 hours before you take any action.
• If you’re afraid you might do something, make sure you are never alone. Even if you can’t verbalize your feelings, just stay in
public places, hang out with friends or family members.
Read more on suicidal thoughts.
Find Community
Check out The Mighty, a website dedicated to providing community and support online. No matter what health situation you're going through. The Mighty breaks down what health is really like.
Read through these relatable articles regarding depression and how it can affect your life.
• 22 'Red Flags' That Might Mean You're Slipping Back Into Depression
• What I Wish I Could Tell You Instead of 'I'm Fine'
• The 'Depression Chart' I Made to Help Others Understand My Depression
• Depression Is Not the Same as Sadness
Explore Young Adult novels & nonfiction that address Depression
For more resources for all ages, visit the nonfiction department at your local library and look for call number 616.8527. Resources are also available at Aurora Mental Health.
Check back in May for our next Mental Health Spotlight!
Mental Health Spotlight: Addiction
Resources listed are for informational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose or treat a condition without the guidance of a mental health professional. If you or someone you know is having a mental health emergency, please call 911 or Colorado Crisis Services at 1.844.493.TALK.
Hey teens! Interested in mental health?
Each month the Aurora Public Library focuses on a different topic related to mental health. Swing by the Aurora Central Library's teen area to browse YA novels and nonfiction related to the monthly topic. Whether you or someone you know is facing a mental health issue, or you are just interested in the topic, APL has information, resources and reading materials for you.
Remember, your mental health matters.
This month’s Mental Health Spotlight is on eating disorders.
Eating disorders are real, complex, bio-psycho-social diseases that can have a serious impact on health, productivity and relationships. They are NOT fads, phases, or lifestyle choices. Anyone can develop an eating disorder—no matter your age, race, gender or weight.
The most common eating disorders are anorexia, bulimia and binge eating disorder.
People struggling with an eating disorder often become obsessed with food, body image and weight.
Take this short screening to determine if you may be grappling with eating disorder behaviors and if it's time to seek professional help.
About Eating Disorders
Eating Disorders are one of the most misunderstood mental illnesses. They also have one of the highest mortality rates. While eating disorders manifest in behaviors regarding food and weight, eating disorders revolve around control. An eating disorder can give someone a false sense of security and order. Eating disorders often co-occur with other mental illnesses, such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder.
Learn more from the resources below:
- Types of Eating Disorders
- What Does Compulsive Overeating Feel Like
Mental Health Spotlight: Addiction
Resources listed are for informational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose or treat a condition without the guidance of a mental health professional. If you or someone you know is having a mental health emergency, please call 911 or Colorado Crisis Services at 1.844.493.TALK.
Hey teens! Interested in mental health?
Each month the Aurora Public Library focuses on a different topic related to mental health. Swing by the Aurora Central Library's teen area to browse YA novels and nonfiction related to the monthly topic. Whether you or someone you know is facing a mental health issue, or you are just interested in the topic, APL has information, resources and reading materials for you.
Remember, your mental health matters.
This month’s Mental Health Spotlight is on addiction.
ad·dic·tion: the fact or condition of being addicted to a particular substance, thing or activity.
- When Does Something Become an Addiction
- Concerned you may be abusing substances? Take a self-assessment quiz to see how your habits and usage may be influencing your life.
Having an addiction does not make you a bad person.
- What does addiction feel like?
- Many people think of addiction in terms of substances, like drugs, alcohol, and tobacco. These substance addictions are severe and very common. This article breaks down the top 10 in this category.
- However, behavioral addictions, while often overlooked, can seriously impact a person’s life. Some examples include gambling, shopping, food, sex, internet/social media. Check out this article for more examples of behavioral addictions.
Recovery is possible.
- Are you struggling with an addiction? Support groups can be helpful. Learn about different types of support groups here.
- Find a support group meeting.
- Alcoholics Anonymous meetings in Aurora for teens & online Alcoholics Anonymous meetings
Is someone you know struggling with an addiction?
Parents, significant others, family members and friends who are battling an addiction can cause stress, anxiety, fear and isolation to those who love them. You are not alone. Al-Alon and Ala-Teen offer resources and support groups to those affected by someone who is addicted. Visit their website for more information.
Real teens share their stories of addiction
Meet Hailey
Meet Michael
Meet Savannah
Meet Tyelur
Substance use resources for teens
- 7 Things People in Addiction Recovery Wish You Knew
- 23 Recovering Addicts Share The One Thing They Wish People Understood About Their Addictions
- How to Talk About Addiction with a friend or loved one
- How to Help an Addicted Friend or Relative
Explore Young Adult novels that address addiction
For more resources for all ages, visit the nonfiction department at your local library and look for call number 362.292. Resources are also available at Aurora Mental Health.
Check back in March for our next Mental Health Spotlight!
Check It Out! hoopla digital
by Kristin S.
hoopla digital is a free library service that lets you check out materials on your computer, smartphone or tablet. Hoopla has a wide range of content, including:
• eBooks
• Digital audiobooks
• Music
• Movies
• Television shows
• Comics
Everything on Hoopla is available instantly, meaning no hold lists. There are no fees or fines. When an item is due, it simply disappears off your device.
Aurora Public Library patrons can check out up to 14 items each month. Your checkout limit resets to max on the first day of a new month, even if you still have items from the previous month checked out.
Watch the video or check out the steps below to get started with hoopla!
1) If you are using a computer, visit hoopladigital.com. If you are using a smartphone or tablet, search your App Store or Play Store for the Hoopla app and download it.
2) Choose "Get Started Today" on a computer, or "Sign Up" on a phone or tablet.
3) Enter your email and choose a password
4) Choose Aurora Public Library (CO) - Be sure to select Aurora, Colorado
5) Enter your library card number
And you're done!
To find an item, choose the category you'd like to browse from the menu. You can also search for a specific item by typing the title in the white search bar beside the word "Everything" (on a computer), or by touching the magnifying glass and typing your search there (phones or tablets).
To check out an item, simply select it and hit "Borrow".
It will say beneath the item how long you may borrow the item for. Books and audiobooks you will have access to for 21 days, music for seven days, and movies for three days.
To view the items you have checked out, click "My Hoopla" then "Currently Borrowed" (on computer) or use the back arrow to return to the home screen (phone or tablet).
If you have any questions, please visit hoopla's help page or click here for information about how to connect with APL staff.
Tell us in the comments what your currently enjoying from hoopla!
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