Book therapy plan for mental health

PEOPLE suffering from mild to moderate mental health problems are being encouraged to read themselves better by taking part in a scheme in Hull.

The Better with Books initiative, run by the City Health Care Partnership, recommends a series of books giving readers a chance to learn more about mental health issues and means of recovering.

The list covers a range of reading, from “feel-good” biographies to inspirational fiction.

The service was launched in 2006 and is now available in 12 city libraries and Hull Prison.

Mental health worker Caroline Pearson said: “The Better with Books scheme has really taken off across the city over the past four years. With such enthusiasm for the scheme we swiftly had to get it up and running at 12 libraries, and we were thrilled to get the library resources at Hull Prison on board.”

It is estimated that one in four people suffer a mental health problem each year.

The partnership saidthe therapeutic benfits of reading were first documented in 300BC and helped make people emotionally and physically stronger.

To access the service call 01482) 344643.