Launch of Healthy Reading Scheme by Cathaoirleach Cllr. Fintan Cooney on Thursday 17th June in County Buildings, Mullingar

Latest News - Local News

Written by Anne Marie Taaffe

Monday, 05 July 2010 12:46

Many people have difficulty coping with the pressures of modern life. Bereavement, bullying, stress and low self-esteem are just some of the factors which can see people become overwhelmed by daily life. This can lead to people feeling isolated , alone and misunderstood.

Books can help! An appropriate book may not only suggest ways to manage problems but also reassure people that they are not alone. Reading can provide support, guidance, direction and empower the reader to work toward maintaining good mental health.

On Thursday 17th June, Westmeath County Library Service at County Buildings Mullingar hosted the launch of the new “Healthy Reading” support scheme.

This scheme identified a wide range of issues which can affect mental health including:
Understanding Mental Health, Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem, Bullying, Suicide, Bereavement, Schizophrenia, Addiction, Eating Disorders, Alzheimer’s & Dementia and Abuse.
A leaflet has been produced on each topic. Each leaflet lists books which can offer information and advice. However the scheme goes a step further by identifying helplines and websites that can offer help and support to individuals who are struggling to cope and to friends and family who may have concerns.

The scheme initially will be piloted in both Mullingar and Athlone libraries, but people in any part of the county will be able to access the books and leaflets through their local library. Copies of the leaflet packs will be circulated to all doctors, social workers and help care professionals.

The scheme was launched by the Cathaoirleach Cllr Fintan Cooney and supported by other speakers involved in this partnership : Mr Peter McEvoy, HSE Community Services Manager Westmeath, Finola Colgan, Mental Health Ireland Regional Development Officer and Stephen Cummins President of Mullingar Lions Club.

The healthy reading scheme in Westmeath is a partnership project which has received advice and funding from: HSE Community Care, Mental Health Ireland, RAPID, Westmeath Community Development and Mullingar Lions Club.

The healthy reading scheme is a good example of what is possible when a number of service providers come together to work in a creative manner to improve the quality of life for the people of Westmeath

To find out more about the healthy reading scheme, call into your local library or visit our website at click here