How Bibliotherapy Can Help Deal With Depression

Written By:

Written By:

Bibliotherapy Can Help Deal With Depression 1

Bibliotherapy for depression is one of the most effective tools out there, and even though a lot of people might not know about this creative and expressive practice, its benefits are immense. So the questions now are how bibliotherapy helps depression, what are the benefits of bibliotherapy, and what is bibliotherapy in mental health? Let’s take a look.

Key Points

  • Bibliotherapy is a creative expressive art that offers research based benefits.
  • Engaging in bibliotherapy brings on emotional and cognitive shifts.
  • Bibliotherapy can help reduce symptoms in subclinical and mild depression.

Bibliotherapy is a creative arts therapy, where the reading of books can help a child or an adult move through emotional experiences. From fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or pictures books – a good dose of literature can provide support, education, and greater well-being.

Plugin to a good read.

Historically, bibliotherapy first appeared as a term and a book reading experience in the Atlantic Monthly in 1916. Later, in the 1930s, librarians began compiling lists of books and other written materials that could help individuals with trauma, thoughts, feelings, or behaviors for therapeutic purposes.

The key premise of bibliotherapy is that readers begin to identify with a particular character in the book, deepen their understanding of symptoms of depression, or learn more about the science behind mental health.

Related: Music Therapy: How Binaural Beats Music Can Help Reduce Depression

Types of Bibliotherapy

There are 5 types of bibliotherapy.

1. Creative bibliotherapy

A group experience, where fiction, nonfiction, poetry, or other forms of literature are pre-read and discussed by the group. Think book club.

2. Developmental bibliotherapy

An educational experience, used at schools or in homes, where fiction or nonfiction is used to help explain human development. Think birds-and-the-bees teaching moments.

3. Prescriptive bibliotherapy

A clinical experience, where books are used to help teach, modify, shift or acquire newly learned skills. Think Dialectical Behavior Therapy, etc.

Related: How Dark Chocolate Can Help You Fight Depression

4. Therapeutic bibliography

Where fiction, poetry, or nonfiction books are recommended as additional reading alongside traditional psychotherapy. Think reading “Wishful Drinking” while addressing one’s own addiction in therapy sessions.

5. Informal bibliotherapy

Where you, the reader, choose a book that speaks to you and what you’re dealing with in life.

Benefits of Bibliotherapy

Engaging in bibliotherapy brings on emotional and cognitive shifts. Studies report many positive outcomes, including reduction of negative emotions, deepening insight, increased empathy and compassion, greater social connection, heightened awareness, more successful problem solving, just to name a few.

Even during COVID, bibliotherapy was shown to help children and adults feel more grounded emotionally and physically about the pandemic.

When it comes to depression, research reports that bibliotherapy can ease subclinical or mild depressive symptoms. It is not solely recommended as a therapy for individuals who have moderate or severe symptoms of depression. While you can use bibliotherapy in creative, developmental, prescriptive, and therapeutic ways, you can also find success reading informally.

Reading can reduce stress.

Tips for Using Informal Bibliotherapy

1. Do a “need” inventory. 

What is it that you’d like to know about your depression? Diagnosis? Traditional treatments? Experimental treatments? Maybe you want to read a fictional story about someone living with depression. Or might a memoir or biography be of interest? Zero in on the issue so you can streamline your bibliotherapy search.

Related: 5 Things To Do When You Feel Sad All The Time Even When Life Is Good

2) Librarian or Google. 

Now that you know what theme you’re looking for, consider going to your local library and finding a librarian who can guide you to the best books. Or, if you prefer a less social approach, do an online search for books on the subject.

A library is a hospital for the mind.

3) Set aside time. 

Once you have your book, make time to read it. You don’t have to consume it all in one sitting. Find your style and pace your reading so you experience the book. Take notes if you like. Highlight passages too.

bibliotherapy for depression

4) Quiet your mind and reflect. 

After you’ve completed reading, still your mind and reflect on what you’ve learned. Whether it’s new information, tips, or techniques, give yourself space for them to find a comfortable place within you.

Related: How To Overcome Depression: 11 Coping Skills

5) Reach out if reading isn’t enough. 

Though bibliotherapy is a meaningful experience, sometimes it doesn’t completely offer all the help you need. If so, consider reaching out to a mental health professional for further support.


Written By Deborah Serani
Originally Published On Psychology Today

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How bibliotherapy can help students open up about their mental health?

Books can prove to be a therapeutic tool for students struggling with their mental health. When they are able to relate and recognize their emotions and thoughts while reading a book, it makes them feel less alone.

What would be the best therapy for depression?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is the best kind of therapy for treating depression.

What is bibliotherapy for kids?

Bibliotherapy is basically the use of fiction, literature, and books to help children deal with their emotional and mental problems. For example, reading their favorite books during an emotionally turbulent time can help them feel better.

Bibliotherapy Can Help Deal With Depression pin

— Share —

Published On:

Last updated on:

,

— About the Author —

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Up Next

7 Life-Changing Books to Read If You Want 2025 to Be Your Breakout Year

Self Improvement Books That Will Rewire Your Brain for Success This Year

We’re all out here trying to live our best lives and become the best version of ourselves, but let’s be real, it’s not always easy. Self-improvement books can be a game-changer, but with so many options out there, it’s hard to know where to start. If you’re serious about making 2025 your year, reading the right books could give you that much-needed boost.

We’ve rounded up 7 self improvement books that’ll motivate you to start making those changes now and give you the tools to actually get there. Time to stop wishing and start doing!

Self Improvement Books That Will Make You Unstoppable

1. Daring Greatly by Brené B

Up Next

Zodiac Signs As Literature: Which Classic Text Are You?

Zodiac Signs As Literature: Which Classic Text Are You?

Ever wondered what your zodiac sign would look like as a classic novel? No? Well, buckle up because we’re doing it anyway. Here are the zodiac signs as literature.

Whether you’re a bold Leo or a dreamy Pisces, there’s a literary masterpiece that matches your vibe. Some signs are dramatic, like Pride and Prejudice—all witty banter and romantic tension. Others? They’re more like Moby-Dick: deep, mysterious, and maybe a little obsessed. So grab a cup of tea, cozy up, and let’s see which timeless tale captures your zodiac energy. Spoiler alert: it’s going to be spot on.

Zodiac Signs As Literature

Aries – <

Up Next

The 7 Best Spiritual Books Everyone Needs on Their Shelf

The Best Spiritual Books Everyone Needs on Their Shelf

There are moments in life when a single book can change the way you see yourself and the world around you. Over the years, I’ve come across some of the best spiritual books that have brought clarity, peace, and a deeper sense of purpose to my life.

Each of these books offered something new. Some helped me find calm in difficult moments. Others challenged my old ways of thinking or reminded me of the importance of living with intention. They weren’t complicated or overwhelming. Instead, they felt like conversations that slowly opened my mind and heart. Reading them has brought a huge change in my life, and could do the same for you.

So, here are seven spiritual books that had a meaningful impact on my life. These are books that might resonate with you, too, no matter where you are on your journey.

Up Next

8 Cuddle-Worthy Winter Romance Books To Fall For

Best Winter Romance Books To Fall In Love With!

It’s December! The perfect excuse to snuggle up with a hot cup of coffee. The chilly air outside has you craving for some warmth, but what if you’re or in a long distance relationship? Don’t worry! These 8 best winter romance books are here to keep you company . Each story is like a cozy hug in book form.

From timeless classics to festive love stories, there’s something for everyone on this list. So, grab a blanket, make some cocoa (or tea if that’s more your vibe), and get ready to get lost in some swoon-worthy winter romance.

Read More Here: ‘Tis The Season For Cozy Reading: 8 Holiday Reads To Keep

Up Next

‘Tis The Season For Cozy Reading: 8 Holiday Reads To Keep You Warm This Winter

Holiday Reads to Warm Your Winter Nights

Here is a list of the best holiday reads to enjoy this season!

The holidays are here, and it’s that magical time of year when the world feels cozier. The days are shorter, the air is colder, and twinkling lights have started to brighten up our evenings. It’s a season filled with traditions—whether you’re gathering with loved ones, baking cookies, or simply wrapping yourself in a warm blanket with a hot drink in hand. For many of us, it’s also the perfect time to curl up with a good book.

There’s something about the December air that makes stories feel more special. Maybe it’s the promise of happy endings, the warmth of heartwarming characters, or the way these tales transport us to snowy villages and festive celebrations. Whether you love classic Christmas tales, sweet holiday romances, or even a cozy winter mystery,

Up Next

Ebook Vs Physical Book: 8 Undeniable Reasons Physical Books Will Always Be The Best

Ebook Vs Physical Book: Reasons Why Physical Books Are Superior

The debate between an ebook vs physical book is one every reader faces. As technology grows, many of us are drawn to the convenience of ebooks, but physical books offer an experience that digital versions just can’t replicate.

There’s something special about turning the pages, smelling the ink, and having a enviable collection in your home. Even though both have their advantages and perks, reading printed books hold a charm that goes beyond convenience.

Today, we are going to talk about all the reasons to choose a physical book, and some really cool benefits of printed books. Let’s jump in!

Related:

Up Next

9 Books to Make You Smarter and Sharper

9 Books to Make You Smarter and Sharper

Reading makes you smarter – you must have heard this one quite a few times before, and it’s true! If you are looking to give your brain a little workout, then you have come to the right place, my friend. Today, we are going to talk about some of the best books to make you smarter, so that you get to level up in the intellect department.

Whether it’s for impressing friends, winning debates, or just satisfying your own curiosity, books are the perfect way to become smarter. These intellectual books will definitely give you something to think about.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your coffee and curl with some of the best books to increase intelligence.