Ruth Parfett

Dad's Weird Frown Ruth Parfett

The Black Dog metaphor for Depression is widely recognised. However, mental illness disorders of Anxiety and Depression commonly coexist, so the author calls the Anxiety-Depression combination the Grey-Black Dog.




Dad's Weird Frown is a Pebble from Pebble Collections and is written as a letter direct from the author, as if she is speaking personally to the reader or listener. Ruth uses descriptive language, and common behaviours observed in a sufferer of Anxiety-Depression, to explain the symptoms and complexities of mental health struggles. Her letter can also be used as a guide to encourage candid conversations, for anyone who desires to approach this difficult subject with another.




Ruth explains why a parent may sleep a lot, or seem sad, why a mother for example, cries from their dad being grumpy (Domestic Violence) and describes what the suffering parent may be feeling during these behaviours.




Dad's Weird Frown is also a resource for professionals working in community, education, and healthcare sectors.