Connecting Through Books: Navigating Loneliness Through a Shared Love of Literature.

The article explores the role of shared reading in addressing loneliness and promoting connectedness. Loneliness is a global health concern, and social connections are vital for overall well-being. Shared reading activities, such as book clubs and online book chats, offer opportunities for intellectual stimulation, social interaction, and a sense of belonging. These gatherings foster networks, friendships, and community, and can have therapeutic effects. Shared reading has been found to enhance self-esteem, social inclusion, and cognitive function, and has been applied in various contexts, including supporting individuals with disabilities, older adults, and healthcare professionals. Social media platforms have also facilitated the growth of shared reading communities. Therapeutic reading, involving reading aloud and reflecting on the content, has shown positive outcomes for diverse populations. In conclusion, shared reading can be a valuable strategy for addressing loneliness and promoting mental health and well-being. Mental health professionals should consider incorporating shared reading into comprehensive mental health plans, although further research is needed to fully understand the extent of these benefits. [Extracted from the article]