Bibliotherapy: Reading and Depression

[USS Utah]

I just got taken to task for posting about books I read -- especially war books -- at a site dedicated to helping people deal with depression. I do read a lot of military-related books, but more to the point: Reading is good therapy for depression, there is even a name for it: bibliotherapy. Reading can bring simple enjoyment. Reading can get our minds off our troubles and thinking about other things. Reading can provide an escape. Finishing a book can bring a sense of accomplishment.

Links on bibliotherapy:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bibliotherapy

http://www.minddisorders.com/A-Br/Bibliotherapy.html

http://www.ala.org/tools/bibliotherapy

http://bigthink.com/think-tank/anxious-depressed-literate-try-bibliotherapy

http://www.storiedmind.com/psychotherapy/reading-depression-therapy/

http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/booksblog/2010/jan/18/reading-depression


I don't expect anyone to enjoy the same books I do, but I do encourage people to read. It doesn't matter what people read, as long as they are reading.