May is Mental Health Awareness Month.
“The World Health Organization defines mental health as ‘a state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community’ “. (Awareness Depot)
In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, I just read a fantastic book, Toppling the Idol of Ideal. This great book deals with children with hidden disabilities. I don’t even have children, but I stayed riveted by this book and learned so much, making me a better friend and lay counselor.
Toppling the Idol of Ideal by author Melanie Boudreau was written for parents raising children with hidden disabilities and those who love them, especially leaders who are active in ministry and desire to address needs with sensitivity and wisdom. Hidden disabilities cover diagnoses that include ADHD, autism, and mental health conditions. Each are prevalent in society and yet taboo to admit openly in the church. Uninformed opinions from pulpits to the pews can damage and alienate the most vulnerable. This book offers a rare view of both practical and spiritual insights to help families and ministers alike navigate the misperceptions that accompany special needs which are often invisible to the eye.
Melanie Boudreau says, “This book is both practical and spiritual. It covers topics such as laws impacting education and access to justice and seeking help from professionals when hidden disabilities are suspected. It also discusses suffering, intercession, and hope because our lives are integrated, not segregated, into the practical and the spiritual. What we deal with practically in our everyday lives impacts us spiritually.”
If you have a child with a hidden disability, or know someone with a child with a hidden disability, please treat yourself to this very good book. It will inform as well as delight. I guarantee it.
Connect with Melanie Boudreau on Facebook here.
Read her blog posts here.