Ron's Feeling Blue: Books Beyond Words tell stories in pictures to help people with intellectual disabilities explore and understand their own experiences

By Sheila Hollins, Roger Banks and Beth Webb

In the Books Beyond Words series the stories are told through pictures only. They are for adults with learning (intellectual) disabilities, but are useful for anyone with communication difficulties. Ron, a young man with learning disabilities, has lost interest in the things he usually enjoys - even eating and watching television. He doesn't want to see his friends or take part in any activities. He stays in bed and gets angry when his friends try to talk to him and bring him food. His GP (family doctor) visits and diagnoses Ron with depression. Ron sees his GP regularly who helps him to feel better - he starts to enjoy doing things again. Two additional images illustrate the doctor prescribing medication for the depression. New to the second edition is text at the back of the book that includes: background information on depression, guidance for supporters and carers on using the books, a suggested storyline, plus updated contact details for supporting organisations and related resources.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Books Beyond Words
• Release date: Nov 4, 2013
• ISBN: 9781874439370

Sheila Hollins

Sheila Hollins, editor of the Books Beyond Words series, is Emeritus Professor of Psychiatry of Disability at St. George’s, University of London, and sits in the House of Lords. She is a past President and an Honorary Fellow of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, and President of the British Medical Association, 2012–2013.