Why read books about mental health and wellbeing?

Mental health and wellbeing books can help you understand your thoughts and feelings, learn new ways of coping, and feel less alone in what you’re experiencing. Reading can be a flexible way to explore mental health at your own pace, in your own time, and in a way that feels comfortable for you.

Are books a replacement for professional mental health support?

Books are not a replacement for professional support such as therapy, medication, or talking to a trained professional. However, they can be a helpful part of looking after your mental health alongside other support. If you need urgent support, text NATTER to 85258 or visit the Get help now page.

Where did the list of books come from?

The Reading Agency (a national charity which helps people ‘read their way to a better life’) put together the list of mental health books for teenagers. Leading health professionals worked with teenagers, families, carers, and librarians to choose and recommend the books.

What kinds of mental health books are included?

The books on Best For You include both fiction and non-fiction books that explore mental health, identity, and wellbeing. Topics include grief and loss, neurodiversity, body image, bullying, family change, friendship, LGBTQ+ identity, and growing up. Many books are written for young people and share experiences in accessible ways, including graphic novels, verse novels, true stories, and dyslexia-friendly formats.

Where can I find these books for free?

You can borrow books for free from your local library, and thanks to funding from the government Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport, ever library service across England has the books on the list. You can find your nearest library in England and Wales on the government website.

Mental health and wellbeing books

FAQ - Books and your mental health

Why read books about mental health and wellbeing?
Mental health and wellbeing books can help you understand your thoughts and feelings, learn new ways of coping, and feel less alone in what you’re experiencing.

Reading can be a flexible way to explore mental health at your own pace, in your own time, and in a way that feels comfortable for you.
Are books a replacement for professional mental health support?
Books are not a replacement for professional support such as therapy, medication, or talking to a trained professional. However, they can be a helpful part of looking after your mental health alongside other support.

If you need urgent support, text NATTER to 85258 or visit the Get help now page.
Where did the list of books come from?
The Reading Agency (a national charity which helps people ‘read their way to a better life’) put together the list of mental health books for teenagers.

Leading health professionals worked with teenagers, families, carers, and librarians to choose and recommend the books.
What kinds of mental health books are included?
The books on Best For You include both fiction and non-fiction books that explore mental health, identity, and wellbeing.

Topics include grief and loss, neurodiversity, body image, bullying, family change, friendship, LGBTQ+ identity, and growing up. Many books are written for young people and share experiences in accessible ways, including graphic novels, verse novels, true stories, and dyslexia-friendly formats.
Where can I find these books for free?
You can borrow books for free from your local library, and thanks to funding from the government Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport, ever library service across England has the books on the list.

You can find your nearest library in England and Wales on the government website.

Text NATTER for help

Anyone can text ‘NATTER’ to 85258 to seek  help, wherever they are in the UK. It’s a free, anonymous service and available 24/7.
More about NATTER

Text NATTER to 85258 Find other mental health helplines

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Books for mental health and wellbeing