Reading Therapy Bibliotherapy for Anxiety

When one falls into the loop of anxiety, they often need something to interrupt this cycle of worry. The mind stubbornly goes inward, accompanied by negative, fearful thoughts. Changing behaviors works well with this type of habit but it’s been discovered that reading books is a simple and effective way to also interrupt this negative cycle of thinking.
Reading books gives the mind a chance to shift into an entirely different mode of behavior. It focuses on the story, rather than the self. This gives the mind a welcomed break from negative thought, which also affects the body. Fearful thinking releases stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, creating anxiety symptoms. By changing one’s focus, less fearful thought and less stress chemical release. The mind and body have a chance to settle down and recuperate.
Studies have shown that WW1 soldiers were given bibiliotherapy as a source of rehabilitation from emotional trauma during WW 1. Through the years many have used this method with positive results. Health care workers have witnessed a definite improvement in anxiety related conditions by those who followed a course of this reading therapy.
Books that tell stories are most helpful rather than medical books which only fuel the fear of unwanted symptoms. Therefore, novels are recommended, with tales that draw one in and keep the mind occupied in a way far from inward thinking.
The results of bibliotherapy are instantly noticeable and help fuel a rapid recovery:
-The mind and body experience a well-earned rest from worry and the intrusive cycle of anxious thought. It’s impossible to lose oneself in a story and worry simultaneously, and so reading immediately offers peace of mind.