A reading group in acute mental health care

A trust piloted a story and poetry reading group for patients with acute mental health problems, which encouraged them to relate to the texts and each other

In this article…

> How a reading group can benefit patients on an acute mental health ward

> The types of poems and stories used in the group

> What patients thought about the sessions

Abstract

McLauglin S, Colbourn S (2012) A reading group in acute mental health care. Nursing Times; 108: 44, 14–15. Training provided by The Reader Organisation enabled Berkshire Healthcare Foundation Trust to run reading groups for people in acute inpatient mental wards. A five-week pilot project provided an opportunity for patients to spend some time off the wards to enjoy reading together. The group offered a therapeutic space and a valuable opportunity for engagement and self-expression.