Why reading can be good for your mental health

A person's hands holding a book

Because we have so much “important” reading in our everyday lives, such as the newspaper, texts, road signs, emails, and bills, many of us take the simple act of reading for granted. But how often do we read for pleasure?

Here are just a few of the benefits of reading:

Reading reduces stress

Picking up a book can help us escape from reality and take us out of the present moment. A 2009 research study conducted at the University of Sussex found that reading can lower stress by 68 per cent! They discovered that it is more effective than other relaxation techniques such as listening to music and having a cup of tea.

Reading helps your ability to empathise

It may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you read a book, but studies have shown that reading may help you better understand the feelings and behaviours of others.

Reading can be used as therapy

Otherwise known as bibliotherapy where reading books, especially literature, can help with things like anxiety, grief and depression. Reading books can help you feel more connected and allows your imagination to become more engaged as you connect emotionally with the characters which can reflect your own feelings and problems.

Reading helps you fall asleep

Getting enough sleep is essential to maintain your mental health and wellbeing so creating a bedtime routine, like reading before bed, signals to your body that it’s time to wind down and get some rest. It’s a great alternative to screen time too!

Reading helps your brain grow!

Reading on a daily basis helps to boost memory function by giving your brain a good exercise. Memory function declines with age, but reading consistently can help to avoid this by keeping our minds sharper for longer.

So, no matter where you do it or what genre you choose, consider reading more to improve your mental health and wellbeing! What have you got to lose?

Related articles

Colleagues enjoying team building day

A sneak peek into our Team Building Day

Step One recently hosted team-building days, which involved an escape room and wellbeing sessions. Thanks to the support of Devon Community Foundation, we were given the opportunity to practice what we preach, taking time to bond as a team, prioritise our wellbeing and relax.
Graphic with "5 minutes with our Trustees"

5 Minutes With Our Trustees

We're very excited to introduce the new Trustees joining Step One Charity. Today we're sharing a bit about each of them in a "5 minutes with..." interview. Please continue reading to find out more about the people helping guide our charity and further our mission.
Graphic with quote reading: “You met me at one of the most difficult times and seeing the difference you’ve made is amazing [...] Please keep doing what you do. You change lives.”

Celebrating 15 years of Larry, Senior Recovery Practitioner

Larry is one of our longest-serving team members, who recently marked an incredible 15 years with Step One! In this Q&A Larry shares his journey, the highlights of his career to date, and what keeps him motivated to support others.

How you can get involved with Mental Health Awareness Week 2025

Join us this Mental Health Awareness Week for a whole host of activities and events throughout the week to help you connect with others and take care of your wellbeing.
40 Reasons to sign up to Exeter’s Great West Run 2025

40 Reasons to sign up to Exeter’s Great West Run 2025

By joining #TeamStepOne in The Great West Run, you'll not only challenge yourself physically by completing a half marathon or 10k but also contribute to helping support people with mental health challenges, learning disabilities, and neurodiversity across Devon.
Face illustrations with the text 'Stay connected this December'

Stay connected this December – BeWell@StepOne activities

December can be a busy and often overwhelming time of year. Our BeWell@StepOne service is designed to support local people across Devon and has a variety of activities and support groups to help you through the festive season.
OT Week 2024 (Photo of our OTs Lizzie, Lilly, Connor and Roy.

OT Week 2024: Wellbeing tips from our Occupational Therapy team

Occupational Therapy Week is a great opportunity to celebrate the incredible work of our Occupational Therapists (OTs) and highlight the positive impact they have on people's lives at Cypress Hospital.
Granvue - 24 hour supported living

Granvue – A new chapter in supported living

Granvue has been an essential part of Step One’s journey for many years. Now, we're excited to add a new chapter to Granvue’s story as we officially transition it into a supported living house.
A Letter of hope

A letter of hope from BeWell@StepOne participants

Our Anxiety Peer Support Cafe attendees have kindly pieced together this welcome letter for anyone wishing to join one of our BeWell@StepOne services.
©️ Copyright 2024 – Step One. Registered Charity Number: 235434 Company Number 393477 in England. X Centre, Commercial Road, Exeter, EX2 4AD. Web Design by The Ambitions Agency