MENTAL HEALTH AND BIBLIOTHERAPY: READING AS THE ELIXIR OF LIFE FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF ELEMENTARY AND HIGH SCHOOL TEACHERS AT A PUBLIC SCHOOL IN THE DISTRICT OF SÃO JOSÉ DA MATA, CAMPINA GRANDE/PB

Abstract

Introduction. Currently, one of the topics attracting researchers' attention is the development of strategies to maintain mental health and well-being. Thus, questions such as: what is the role of therapeutic literary reading aimed at mental health, what are 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. Objective: The aim of this research was to evaluate how literature contributes and influences the improvement and preservation of mental health, as well as to present bibliotherapy as a tool that aids in the treatment and care of mental health, discussing and demonstrating with data the relevance of literature for education in general. Methodology: The research was conducted at the José Miguel Leão Integral Citizen School, located in the São José da Mata district, in the municipality of Campina Grande, Paraíba. The methodology adopted was field data collection using a semi-structured questionnaire containing 4 questions. Ten teachers from elementary school and high school were randomly selected as the experimental sample. Conclusions: The experience of feeling and imagination while immersing oneself in reading 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.