Library not chemist for WN patients
PATIENTS with emotional health problems could be prescribed a visit to the library instead of a chemist under a new scheme launched in West Norfolk.
A new book prescription service has been introduced in Lynn and the surrounding areas to try to encourage people to learn more about their emotional health problems through reading.
The scheme was launched on Monday by the Norfolk and Waveney Mental Health Partnership and Norfolk County Council, and the area covered stretches from Hunstanton and Burnham Market to Swaffham, Downham, Feltwell and Outwell.
Patients could be recommended self-help books by health professionals, such as GPs and mental health care practitioners, which they can then borrow from a library.
The books are chosen by a highly-qualified team of mental health professionals and use evidence-based methods to help people learn to cope with common psychological problems such as anxiety, panic attacks, depressions, anger management, eating disorders and bereavement.
Cindy Foley, team leader for primary mental health care in West Norfolk, said: "The books complement effective clinical treatments and can be used by the patient at any time to help them understand and overcome their problem.
"We can arrange longer loans and point people in the right direction for even more help from other resources, such as websites specific to their needs."
After consulting a GP or health professional, the patient is given a recommendation from the booklist of a title that may be useful to tackle the problem.
It is only suggested if the health professional thinks it can help the patient, and is treated in the strictest confidence by all involved.
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Weather for King's Lynn
Sunday 27 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 10 C to 25 C
Wind Speed: 16 mph
Wind direction: East
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Sunny
Temperature: 10 C to 23 C
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