THERAPEUTIC USE OF READING IN THE MENTAL HEALTH OF TEACHERS IN THE DISTRICT OF SÃO JOSÉ DA MATA, CAMPINA GRANDE/PB

Abstract

Currently, one of the topics attracting researchers' attention is the development of strategies to maintain mental health and well-being. Thus, questions such as the role of therapeutic literary reading aimed at mental health, the contributions and consequences of this habit, and how reading has impacted people's lives over the years, especially after the pandemic, are increasingly highlighted. Regarding the importance of reading, scientific research highlights its relevance in reducing anxiety and combating depression, among other comorbidities. The aim of this research was to evaluate how literature contributes to and significantly influences the improvement and preservation of the mental health of elementary school and high school teachers at a public school located in the district of São José da Mata, in the municipality of Campina Grande, Paraíba. The research was conducted at the José Miguel Leão Integral Citizen School, located in the district of São José da Mata, in the municipality of Campina Grande, Paraíba. The methodology adopted was field data collection using a semi-structured questionnaire containing 10 questions. Ten teachers from elementary school and high school were randomly selected as the experimental sample. The experience of feeling and imagination while immersing oneself in a book leads individuals to a better understanding of themselves. Individuals' identities are forged through the contribution of reading to mental health. Self-knowledge is essential for better social coexistence, and this is the result of the therapy generated by reading. Knowing oneself is one of the greatest challenges faced by humanity, but this challenge becomes possible when individuals seek reading as a therapeutic aid and source of knowledge.