The Therapeutic Power of Books: How Reading Can Improve Mental Health

Written By Nkem Linda Ijeh

Did you know that today is International Book Giving Day? Have you ever thought about the psychological benefits of giving books to others, or of reading books yourself? International Book Giving Day is a day dedicated to promoting literacy and the joy of reading. There's a wealth of research that suggests that books can have a profound impact on our mental health and well-being.

Reading has been a form of escapism for me as a child, allowing me to immerse myself in new worlds and experiences. This helped me take a break from the stress and pressures of my childhood adversities, and provided me with a sense of comfort and relaxation. By giving books to others, we're not only promoting literacy, but we're also giving them the gift of escape, a chance to step out of their own lives and into someone else's, giving them examples of what else can be.

Reading can also have a positive impact on our emotional intelligence. When we read books, we're exposed to a wide range of emotions and perspectives, which can help us better understand and empathize with others. Another benefit of reading is that it can improve our cognitive function. Reading requires us to focus, to process information, and to use our imaginations, all of which can help us to improve our attention, memory, and problem-solving skills.

This can be especially important for children, who are in the process of developing their emotional intelligence, social skills and cognitive skills. By giving books to children, we're helping to lay the foundation for their emotional intelligence, social awareness and future success, which can serve them well throughout their lives.

International Book Giving Day is not just about promoting literacy, but also about promoting mental health and well-being. By giving books to others, we're giving them the gift of escape, emotional intelligence, and cognitive function, all of which can help them to lead happier, healthier lives. So this International Book Giving Day, let's spread the joy of reading and make a positive impact on the world.

Nkem Linda Ijeh

Hello, my name is Nkem, a dedicated and experienced psychologist with a passion for helping individuals achieve their full potential. With a deep-rooted passion for understanding the human mind and behavior, I've devoted my career to guiding individuals on their journey towards improved mental health. I have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients, empowering them to lead happier and more fulfilling lives. My approach is built on compassion, empathy, and evidence-based practices, ensuring that every individual I work with receives the highest standard of care.

Prior to my psychology training, I have been an activist creating awareness of the dangers of child sexual abuse in Alexandria, VA; Nigeria, and the diaspora; creating safe spaces for others to share their stories and support one another. I also worked in various Bureaus within the Department of State in the United States.

I am a Nigerian, American, mother, traveler, and queer. I bring a unique blend of personal experience and professional expertise to my practice, creating a safe and empathetic space for clients of diverse identities and backgrounds. I provide a safe space and a listening ear for you to communicate your story openly and honestly.

https://www.resiliencenest.com/
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