Healthy Reading Scheme
Healthy Reading Scheme
A new scheme has been launched in Mayo - Mayo Healthy Reading Scheme is designed to guide individuals in their choice of self help book which can then be used in tandem with any suggestions for treatment made by a health professional. This scheme is an initiative developed by the HSE and Mayo County Library.
The books in the Mayo Healthy Reading Scheme have been recommended by health professionals to assist with a variety of emotional or psychological problems. This ensures a high level of quality and relevance for those consulting them. Topics covered include bereavement, depression, relationship problems, parenting and self esteem.
According to the World Health Organisation "At least five percent of the population [of Europe] suffers from serious diagnosable mental illness and ….between 15 and 20 percent of European adults are affected by more general mental health problems" (The World Health Report 2001 – Mental health: New Understanding, New Hope). Yet there can still be a significant taboo attached to mental health difficulties – the simple presence of books relating to mental health issues in a public library, available and accessible to all can help reduce this stigma, and raise awareness of such issues in the public mind.