Today marks National Stress Awareness day, an event about which we care passionately.

Did you know stress is believed to contribute to around 60% of human illness and disease, raising the risk of heart disease and stroke by 40-50%. But, just 6 minutes of reading is shown to reduce stress levels by more than two thirds!

76% of adults are reported to feel greater life satisfaction and improved self-well being by incorporating reading into their routines while 38% class reading as the ultimate stress remedy over listening to music or taking a walk.

Our libraries along with their friendly teams of volunteers are here to help you choose a book that allows you to take 10 minutes to yourself. Immerse yourself in a life that isn’t your own to help alleviate the symptoms of stress and improve your mental health.

If you’re feeling stressed, mental health charity Mind have some great advice on how to deal with stress not just today but every day of the year, check out their website here