New library service promotes positive mental health

Tamworth Library, in partnership with South Staffordshire and Shropshire NHS Foundation Trust, has recently introduced a dedicated 'Healthy Living' section which aims to help sufferers of anxiety and depression to understand and manage their conditions by having access to the right information.

The key development is the provision of three computers on which customers can access confidential Cognitive Behavioural Therapy sessions.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is a well researched and effective means of treating disorders such as anxiety and depression. It helps people to look at their thinking patterns and gives people ways of challenging negative thoughts as well as increasing activities to counter the effects if depression.

The section also includes books on a range of topics, such as exercise and diet, which are all important in achieving optimum mental health.

County Councillor and Cabinet Support Member for Cultural Services, Maureen Compton, said: "Libraries are a source of information on many health issues. Whilst we recognize that information itself is not a cure for illness, being able to recognize and understand a medical condition, whether mental or physical, can be the first step in being able to manage it effectively."

The confidential service is available during library opening hours which include Mondays and Tuesdays until 7:00pm and Saturdays 9:00am - 4:00pm.

Library staff are able to assist any user who is not familiar with computers, so no previous knowledge of IT is required.

Tamworth Library is also working with local health practices to offer "Books on Prescription", a scheme where local GPs recommend health books from the library as a compliment to their professional advice and prescribed medications.

The books cover a range of topics which impact on all aspects of our health, both mental and physical. As well as an extensive book list on mental health topics such as stress management, coping with bereavement and obsessive compulsive disorder, there are also titles focusing on health issues such as exercise and diet.

For more information on the 'Healthy Living; service at Tamworth Library, please contact Cathy Attwood on 01827 475651 or email cathy.attwood@staffordshire.gov.uk