Thousands opt for Books on Prescription

As we mark World Mental Health Day (10 October), thousands of people in Plymouth are literally ‘reading themselves’ well.

Since the Books on Prescription scheme was launched in June 2013, more than 2,000 books have been issued under the scheme in Plymouth. The self-help books available cover a range of common mental health conditions such as depression, social anxiety, panic, stress, and advice on issues such as how to become more assertive.

Nationally, around 275,000 people have accessed books on prescription and while there are around 8 million people in England suffering from anxiety or depression alone, it is estimated around three-quarters of this group may not be receiving treatment.

Councillor Sue McDonald, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Public Health for Plymouth City Council, said: “The Books on prescription scheme has played an important role in helping to meet the huge need for mental health support.

“It is a great way to help people help themselves by making information on mental health more accessible and available.

“Staff from Plymouth Library Service are currently visiting GP practices across the city to promote the initiative. It is estimated that around 80% of people who borrow a book have self-referred by picking up a leaflet. This is great news as it shows people are being proactive about improving their wellbeing.”

Councillor Pete Smith, Deputy Leader of Plymouth City Council said: “Our libraries are also a great place for people to widen their horizons, improve their knowledge, and in the case of Books on Prescription, empowering people to take back some control over their health and wellbeing.

“We also have our ‘Feel Better With a Book’ groups at many of our libraries in Plymouth. The groups are a great way of connecting members with both the literature they share, and with each other.”

For information on the Feel Better With a Book groups including times and venues, and general information on Plymouth Libraries, go to www.plymouth.gov.uk/libraries

A full list of books available under Books on Prescription can be found on the Reading Agency website at www.readingagency.co.uk/readingwell

To mark World Mental Health Day there is also an Active Minds walk around Devonport Park, and enjoy a poem on the way round. Walkers are meeting at the Fore Street entrance at 11am and it’s an opportunity to meet new people, share responses to poetry and take exercise outdoors. For more information call Plymouth Guild on 01752 201900.