Why Reading Beats Streaming: The Surprising Benefits for Stress Relief

As summer heats up in the Northern hemisphere and stress levels rise, more and more people are turning to books for a much-needed escape.

According to a recent poll by the Publishers Association, reading has become the go-to form of escapism for many this summer.

The survey revealed that a third of respondents find solace and relaxation in the pages of a book, surpassing other forms of entertainment like streaming television, scrolling through social media, and even going to the pub. In fact, only watching television had higher figures, with 54% of respondents preferring it as a means of escape.

Dan Conway, CEO of the Publishers Association, highlights the significance of this finding, stating, “The polling not only shows the importance of books to people’s mental health and well-being but is a testament to their longevity and value.” Books offer a unique and immersive experience that allows readers to momentarily escape from their daily routines, transporting them to different worlds and providing a much-needed respite from the challenges of life.

Shelve Your Stress: How Reading Boosts Mental Well-Being

Reading has long been associated with numerous mental health benefits. Engaging with literature can foster empathy and understanding in readers, enabling them to better connect with others and navigate the complexities of human emotions. By immersing ourselves in the lives and experiences of fictional characters, we gain a deeper understanding of different perspectives and cultivate a greater sense of empathy towards those around us.

But it’s not just the psychological benefits that make reading such a popular choice; the survey also shed light on the sustainability of this medium. The majority of respondents expressed a desire to retain, reuse, or recycle their books, with 40% keeping the books for themselves and 34% passing them on to friends or family members. Additionally, 33% of respondents give their used books to charity shops, 12% sell them online, and only 7% discard them.

This emerging trend of book-sharing and recycling reflects a conscious effort among readers to contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly society. With the rise of digital media, the physical book has become a tangible object of value, cherished and shared among friends, family, and even strangers in second-hand bookstores.

The findings of this survey coincide with the launch of the UK’s Publishers Association’s ‘Insights Dashboard.’ This annual report highlights the growth and success of the publishing industry, with total sales reaching an impressive £6.9 billion, a 4% increase from the previous year. In addition to the domestic market, the export market has played a crucial role in the industry’s success, contributing to a further 8% increase and pushing the total to £4.1 billion.

As Dan Conway aptly summarizes, “The UK’s publishing industry is booming and continues to show the vital role it plays amongst the wider creative industries.” With the enduring appeal of books as a source of escape and the positive impact they have on mental well-being, the future of reading looks bright.

So, as summer beckons, why not grab your favorite novel, find a cozy reading spot, and immerse yourself in a world of imagination and understanding? Give yourself some ‘me time’ and nourish your mind and soul through the power of reading.