Just Peachy: Comics About Depression, Anxiety, Love, and Finding the Humor in Being Sad by Holly Chisholm

“Just Peachy is a comic series that explores what the day-to-day is like with depression and/or anxiety. The all-too-real cartoon protagonist gives readers a character to empathize with, and helps explain some of the not often talked about consequences and symptoms of having depression. The comics also explore the themes of heartbreak, finding love, dealing with stress, and capturing the magical moments in life that keep us going.

Through dark humor and cute illustrations, the subject matter becomes a bit more bearable, allowing for honest discussion about things like treatment and getting through anxiety attacks, and providing some comfort in times of struggle. For anyone affected by mental illness, Just Peachy shows that you are not alone. Simply put, this is an encouraging collection of comics about being just okay sometimes.” (Goodreads.com)

The best way to describe this short and informative graphic novel is #relatable. I like that more and more authors are writing about mental health and how issues like depression and anxiety are more prevalent in society than most people think. Chisholm does a great job at depicting how she is feeling. She demonstrates that drawing, as well as writing, can help sort out your feelings and habits to aid you in lightening your load. It’s nice to see that we as a society are getting more information on how to cope with mental health and realize that we don’t have to be “ok” all of the time.

I highly recommend reading this if you, a friend, or family member, might be dealing with mental health issues.

Meghan McCabe
Children's and Youth Services Librarian

Available at the Langley Adams Library