Launch of Reading Well for young people
12 April 2016
Today we’re launching Reading Well for young people, a booklist about mental health and emotional wellbeing for 13 to 18 year olds, available in public libraries.
The books provide expert endorsed information, support and advice on a wide range of mental health issues, like anxiety, depression and eating disorders, as well as difficult life experiences like bullying and exam stress. They are all chosen by young people and health experts.
The need
There is a huge need for quality assured mental health information for young people. 1 in 10 young people have a diagnosable mental health issue – that’s three people in every classroom.
Created by young people for young people
We worked with YoungMinds to involve young people with experience of mental health issues in the selection of books and creation of promotional materials.
Gaby, one of our Young Advisors, reflects on the value of the scheme:
“I believe Reading Well will challenge stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding mental illness, educating young people about mental health in general. The easy accessibility of the books that are part of the scheme is key, enabling young people to explore the topic of mental health discretely and at a speed they are comfortable with."
The booklist
Reading Well for young people includes a wide range of self-help and information titles, as well as memoir, graphic novels and fiction.
Partnerships
We run Reading Well in partnership with the Society of Chief Librarians and the Association of Children’s and Education Librarians, with funding from Arts Council England and the Wellcome Trust.
The scheme is supported by a range of health organisations including Public Health England, NHS England (Children and Young People’s Mental Health), Mental Health Foundation, Mind and YoungMinds.
Get involved
Find out more about the titles on the Reading Well for young people list.
Access supporting resources to help you run the scheme.