A growing number of therapists are recommending
something heartening for depressed and anxious patients: reading a book.
The treatment is called Bibliotherapy and it is
gaining force in the UK and the US to such an extent that it is now often
referred to as "the newest alternative form of therapy".
Bibliotherapy, however, is an old concept. The ancient Greeks put great faith
in the power of literature, posting a sign above their library doors describing
itself as a "healing place for the soul".
Bibliotherapy uses an individual's relationship to the
content of books; it is often combined with writing therapy and has been shown
to be effective in the treatment of depression, making patients emotionally and
physically stronger. Reading a book should not be seen as a replacement
for seeking help from a professional. However, the effectiveness of
bibliotherapy means it is a viable alternative treatment for anyone who is
adverse to using medications, or for those who have been on antidepressant
medication long term, with no discernable improvement in their symptoms.
Being inexpensive, ready available and possibly
profoundly effective, it is well worth giving bibliotherapy a chance to lift
one's mood! For more information, read this article on the rise of bibliotherapy.
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