What is Reading Well?
Reading Well, an initiative by The Reading Agency, highlights books recommended by GPs, medical professionals, and individuals with lived experience of the topics covered. Sutton Libraries proudly participates in all four Reading Well schemes.
Self-help books can be powerful tools—effective on their own or alongside prescribed treatments like medication, counselling, or therapy. The Reading Well programme offers practical advice and insights, encouraging self-awareness and a deeper understanding of personal health challenges. Its comprehensive collections help readers and their families develop coping strategies and enhance overall wellbeing.
All booklists are available via The Reading Agency's Reading Well webpages.
The booklist is targeted at children in Key Stage 2 (aged 7-11), but includes titles aimed at a wide range of reading levels to support less confident readers, and to encourage children to read together with their siblings and carers.
Topics include
- Maintaining good mental health and wellbeing
- Managing feelings and worries
- Navigating school and online challenges
- Coping with bereavement and trauma
- Living well with conditions like ADHD, ASD, and OCD
Designed for 13 to 18-year-olds, this collection addresses mental health topics such as anxiety, stress, and OCD. It also offers guidance for navigating challenging experiences like bullying, exams, and social pressures.
This collection provides support for managing common mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression. It covers coping with difficult emotions, experiences such as anger or bereavement, and personal stories of living with these challenges.
Offering information and advice for individuals affected by dementia, this list supports living well after diagnosis. It includes practical advice for carers, personal accounts, and ideas for shared therapeutic activities.