Boy Meets Depression Book Report

The novel, Boy Meets Depression: Or Life Sucks and Then You Live by Kevin Breel is an autobiography depicting Breel’s struggles with mental health. In the book, Breel discusses everything from his family life, to high school, to depression. He was not afraid to tell of his darkest moments to the audience, but instead brings them to the light for everyone to see. He encourages readers to seek out those with troubles like he had and attempt to help them in any way possible. Boy Meets Depression begins with Breel writing about his home life as a child. He does not have it easy: his parents are cold toward each other, his dad is an alcoholic, and his sister is almost never home with him to help him through all of this. But, he had never experienced anything different, so he assumes its normal. As Kevin grows older, he begins to ponder the inner conflict he feels growing inside him. He realizes that he has his own opinion of himself, while he also has the one that others place on him. This causes a great confusion, where Kevin starts to confuse one for the other. As bullies in his school torment him constantly, he gives in to their …show more content…
The experience of reading the book will lead me to be more informed on the topics discussed within. I now understand that sometimes what people show on the outside is not what they feel on the inside. Breel encourages the reader to try to be understanding of what others are going through, and not always attempt to solve their problems. Just listen. I intend to be more empathetic because of his example. The events’ impact on me will be more focused on my internal growth. They will lead me to be more grateful of what I have: my family, friends, education, and health. But most of all, because of this Common Read I will be aware of mental health issues in my community, and do my best to help those who need