High-Five Through Anxiety

Book excerpt: Sloane is starting fifth grade at a new school, and she’s so nervous—nervous enough to make herself sick in front of her fellow classmates. She is immediately bullied for being anxious. As the day continues, other students continue to make fun of her until she meets Catherine. Catherine is kind and doesn’t bully Sloane at all. She supports Sloane. Still, Sloane is nervous and doesn’t know why. Her mother takes Sloane to see a doctor and learns that what’s happening to her isn’t strange at all and that plenty of other kids feel anxious, too. The doctor then teaches Sloane ways to control her anxiety, even in the face of bullies. Generalized Anxiety Disorder is a real issue that goes unchecked in all ages. Children are especially susceptible because they might not understand their emotions or worrisome thoughts. High-Five through Anxiety is a guidebook for other kids like Sloane who feel nervous but also want to feel better.