Our previous article briefly looked into the World of literature on mental health. We considered the early inclusion of mental health literature available to our young minds by viewing Christopher Robin’s friends and his mental state of mind. Leaving the door open for discussion concerning his imaginary friendship was either a coping mechanism or schizophrenia.
Then, to whet your appetite, I introduced you to some stars in this field of work. One example was the Yellow Wallpaper (1892). This was a personal view of a woman suffering from post-partum depression and the treatment that she received through a series of diary entries.
The woman’s condition deteriorates, but all the while, her illness is trivialised by the people around her, including her own husband, John, who also happens to be her doctor—inferring that the intent behind each type of literature is relevant in determining how mental health is portrayed.
One of the most impactful aspects of literature is its ability to validate individual experiences. Society often stigmatises or misunderstands mental health conditions, leaving many people isolated by fear or ignorance and invalidated.
An emerging field known as bibliotherapy utilises books specifically chosen to address various psychological needs. Bibliotherapy involves guided reading recommended by professionals such as therapists or librarians who curate personalised book lists tailored to individual interests or concerns.
By engaging with literary works designed explicitly for healing purposes — whether it be self-help guides aimed at reducing stress levels like “The Relaxation Response” by Herbert Benson or memoirs depicting triumph over trauma like “Wild” by Cheryl Strayed — individuals can benefit from the therapeutic power of literature and enhance their well-being.
Likewise, a form of creative bibliotherapy has been observed in photography, and it has been suggested as a powerful tool for conveying emotion and channels for self-expression. Photography can be more than a hobby by addressing someone’s desires or issues like loneliness and anxiety.
The camera can capture the moment when you are physically in the moment during your mindfulness period or out in nature, forest bathing.
The possibilities for this are endless: you can focus the lens and mind by engaging your senses and fully immersing yourself in the forest surroundings, from insects to animals down to the current Autumn colours or future spring and Summer blossoms.
Remember to take deep breaths to inhale the natural aromas, listen to the sounds of the forest, and observe the rich colours and textures of the environment. Sounds absolutely idyllic.
Fiction or non-fiction literature, which one is best to learn about mental health?
When it comes to learning about mental health, both fiction and non-fiction literature can be valuable resources.
Non-fiction literature, such as self-help books and scientific research, provides factual information, explanations, and strategies for managing mental health problems. They offer insights from professionals and individuals with personal experiences, providing a sense of credibility.
On the other hand, fiction literature can offer a unique perspective on mental health by exploring characters’ inner thoughts and emotions.
It allows readers to empathise and connect with the struggles and triumphs of fictional individuals, which can foster understanding and compassion. Fiction can also provide a safe space for readers to explore complex emotions and experiences that they may not be ready or able to confront in real life.