Wishing Wellness: A Workbook for Children of Parents with Mental Illness

A workbook is for children (ages 6-12) who have a parent with severe, incapacitating disorders like psychosis, suicidal depression, extreme anxiety or those undergoing the most intensive forms of treatment (such as psychiatric hospitalization or day treatment). These children's sense of belonging, competency, and identity can be harmed or jeopardized. This workbook addresses this, and is designed to allow children to process their thoughts, feelings, and experiences while learning more about their parent's illness. The presentation and pace of information is intentionally slow, so that artistic activities and "off-task" time will help kids relax and better integrate what they have learned. Innovative, fun exercises have been included to teach self-coping, confidence, self-esteem, stress management, and play skills. An excellent therapeutic tool for use with groups or in individual sessions.