Many of us have felt a little down from time to time. On occasion, some of us may even have felt quite depressed – perhaps as a result of a life experience such as grief, loss or illness. Others find that depression is an unceasing, ever present, and often overwhelming darkness that impacts every area of life. Those who have friends or family members suffering from depression frequently feel helpless even though they have a strong and sincere desire to assist. So – how might one describe depression to a young child – describe it in such a way that would offer some level of enlightenment but without creating fear or confusion in an already difficult situation? This is the challenge confronting many parents who experience depression.

My Mum Has Depression is one woman's response to this challenge. As one who has experienced depression herself, Nina Mitchell uses a number of interesting and descriptive images to express some of the feelings associated with depression. Throughout the first portion of the book each page offers a description of a feeling such as, “it feels like it is raining inside her and that the rain is never going to stop”. Each description is accompanied by an appropriate illustration which helps the reader to visualise the feeling being described. In contrast, the second portion of the book is devoted to more positive feelings which offer reassurance. “My mum likes it when…” highlights some of the positive aspects of the parent/child relationship, drawing the attention of the reader away from the difficulties associated with depression and presenting what might be considered more typical parent/child activities. For example, the statement “My mum likes it when we are busy together” is accompanied by an illustration that shows the mother and child enjoying flying kites together. The final declaration by the child, “My mum has depression but it doesn't stop her being my mum” reflects an acceptance of the whole person – in this case the mother – and embraces the thought that although there may be difficulties the relationship remains intact.

While this publication is simple, straightforward and very well illustrated, the concepts associated with depression are quite complex. It is therefore recommended that the publication only be utilised with appropriate supervision and guidance. The colourful illustrations provide the opportunity for further discussion around the two central characters – mother and child. Overall, this book could prove useful for those working with children and wishing to open a dialogue focussing on the subject of depression and its impact upon individuals and families.