A group of councils in Queensland have launched a program that aims to encourage health and wellbeing education for residents.
The Words for Wellbeing program, launched today at Ipswich Central Library, enables West Moreton Hospital and Health Service patients to borrow books that encourage a self-help approach to physical and mental health.
The initiative is a partnership between West Moreton Hospital and Health Service, the City of Ipswich, Lockyer Valley, Somerset and Scenic Rim Regional Councils, and the University of Southern Queensland.
Ipswich Mayor Paul Pisasale said the program offered resources that were recommended by health professionals.
“Council is committed to the health and wellbeing of our community and we’re really excited to bring this innovative program to the city with West Moreton Hospital and Health Service and our surrounding councils,” he said.
“Health, particularly mental health, is something that we should all be open to discussing and supporting people in need.
“Ipswich is a city that cares and that’s what Words for Wellbeing is all about – taking healthcare to the next level and looking at different ways to educate and inspire people to make positive changes to the lives.
“Ipswich Libraries has launched a Words for Wellbeing webpage and has purchased every title listed on the recommended book list.”
West Moreton Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Sue McKee said similar programs had been highly successful in the UK.
“There’s solid evidence from the UK that self-help books can help people understand and manage common conditions like anxiety, stress and depression as well as issues caused by arthritis, diabetes and heart disease,” she said.
“Health professionals can recommend books on a Words for Wellbeing prescription flyer, talking to the patient about reading to improve their health condition knowledge.
“Books can then be borrowed from the library, allowing patients to read and think about ways of improving their health with professional support.
“Words for Wellbeing is not about replacing professional care or advice, it is a complementary program that offers a holistic and proactive approach to healthcare by treating the mind and the body.”
