Why Books Matter: Navigating Mental Health in a Digital World

By Vicki Willden-Lebrecht

Driven by technology, modern life is fast, overstimulating and at times overwhelming, so it’s no wonder anxiety and other mental-health issues are so prevalent amongst the young today. And with so much learning now done online, and pastime enjoyment often involving screens, we are faced with a crucial choice: should we still prioritise reading with our children? Is it still worth making time for this traditional activity? Does it really impact their lives?

Yes, for the love of God yes – but the reasons why are shifting. There’s another dimension often overlooked, which is the impact of reading on our children’s brain health and the integral role it plays in their cognitive development within this digital landscape. While I won’t claim that books can solve all our mental-health problems, I wholeheartedly believe they provide a vital balance and are an essential part of our children’s mental-health toolkit.

Books do more than simply provide stories and information; the very act of reading itself offers a much-needed sanctuary and a unique kind of relaxation that allows our children’s overworked and overstimulated brains to unwind in ways that digital distractions cannot. Reading encourages young minds to ponder and explore the rich landscapes of their imagination without the harsh glare of screens. In this simple yet profound act, children can cultivate calmness, creativity, emotional intelligence and discovery – essential elements for their overall well-being and happiness.

In an age dominated by screens and relentless notifications, reading for enjoyment is vital for children; it gives their brains the time and space to reset and process everything. Whilst we live in a world where technology is excelling at a frightening pace, it’s crucial to remember that we are not part robots – yet! We are complex human beings, shaped by an intricate tapestry of biology, hormones and emotions. Our minds and bodies can only handle so much stimulation before they start to unravel. And unlike robots, equipped with servers to reset, we rely on our own sources of rejuvenation – sunlight, rest, sleep and moments spent gazing into the distance.

Our brains have their own natural rhythms, and when we push them too far, we risk overwhelming these delicate systems. This kind of chronic stress has led to troubling trends amongst the young, with instances of self-harm and mental-health crises becoming all too common. High cortisol can alter brain structure, notably shrinking the hippocampus, which is crucial for learning and memory, and when attention, memory, and problem-solving is impaired it becomes difficult for children to concentrate and retain information. Increased cortisol affects a child’s emotional regulation, which can lead to increased anxiety, depression, and social difficulties. It also disrupts neurotransmitter balance, particularly lowering serotonin levels, which heightens the risk of mood disorders. Research shows that reading calms children’s nervous systems, lowering cortisol levels, which greatly benefits their developing brains.

As parents, our own reading habits can have a profound impact on our children, shaping their attitudes towards books and their ability to learn and grow in ways we might not fully appreciate. When children see adults engaged with a book – whether we’re absorbed in a novel, flipping through a magazine, or studying a recipe – they learn that reading is a valued and enjoyable activity. This modelling of behaviour sends a powerful message: reading is not just something you do at school, it’s a rewarding pastime that enriches life. There is also the aspect of where books can transport you physically as well as mentally. We rarely read for pleasure sat at a desk, but in coffee shops with people, in the park, on the beach, replacing our doom scrolling for a book – reading.

Reading isn’t just a mental exercise, it’s a holistic boost for our well-being, nourishing our minds. Yet, we tend to underestimate its significance. I believe that it’s time to redefine the importance of reading, embracing it as an essential part of a healthy lifestyle that connects us with the world while enriching our inner lives. The nurturing of children’s reading habits is crucial; it’s an essential part of their mental-health toolkit, which will take them happily forward into adult life.

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