A new scheme in local libraries means that you can now obtain a range of self-help books if you want support in managing stress, or dealing with emotional or psychological problems.
The titles have been handpicked by mental health professionals and are being supplied for loan through a new scheme called Books on Prescription.
The selected titles cover a range of issues and are geared towards helping you take a positive approach to your own mental health. Topics include:
- managing stress
- having successful relationships
- coping with bereavement.
There is also advice on dealing with mental health problems such as:
- depression
- anxiety
- panic
- anger
- stress
- low self-esteem
- eating disorders
- obsessional-compulsive problems
- the aftermath of abuse.
Find our more and view a full list of titles in our libraries section.
How long can I keep the books for?
The books can be borrowed for 12 weeks and renewed for a further 12 weeks if no one else has requested them.
Users of the scheme have to be library members and can join a library by providing two proofs of ID at any Greenwich library.
Find about joining and using libraries.
Getting to the heart of the problem
The scheme has been set up by Greenwich Libraries in partnership with the local Primary Care Trust and Mind, the mental health charity.
The scheme is one of several being launched in the capital following similar projects in Wales, Scotland and Gloucestershire.
It was devised after observations by primary health care groups who noted that emotional and psychological issues were at the heart of 25 per cent of consultations, while many patients are reluctant to use medication as a treatment for emotional problems.
Taking active steps
Cllr David Grant, Cabinet Member for Health, Adults and Older People, said: "It’s worth remembering that mental health is not just an issue for people who are diagnosed with a specific mental illness, and that we can all benefit from taking active steps to look after our mental well-being.
"At the same time, it’s important to understand that many people, perhaps even the majority, develop emotional or psychological problems at some time during their life. Some need treatment but the Books on Prescription scheme provides an alternative and additional approach to some of the problems people may face.
"I hope residents will make good use of the self-help books on offer which have been selected to offer practical, and highly effective advice and support on a range of issues."
Find out about mental health services in Greenwich.
18 January 2008