My Little Book of Happiness
From the outset, it was important to target people like myself, who may not have had an opportunity to realise their problems, or find a resolution. My aim was to create a book and make it available to adolescents through libraries, school canteens, common rooms or shops as it may prompt someone to get help sooner without drawing attention to themselves.
During my research I conducted an anonymous questionnaire to get a better understanding of what people go through and how they live with their mental health conditions. Over eighty people responded to the questionnaire, and I noticed that anxiety and depression were the most common problems experienced by those completing the survey, and my own experience is with these conditions. This made me want to focus on these two symptoms of mental health. To choose the theme of my book I asked ‘Which of these do you find most calming?’
Previous Page
Next Page
Out of the seven suggestions, the top answer was ‘Woodlands.’ When I found lots of different techniques to help people manage their mental health, I designed each page using different forest scenes that relate to each topic. I wanted it to look bright and colourful just like a forest would. My final outcome is not just a book for the reader to read, it is their own personal journal to explore ways of managing their symptoms and getting further help. I hope it will motivate young people who may be struggling (just like I was) to make the first step.