Who is the Library of Lived Experience of Mental Health aimed at?
Anyone who would be interested to hear personal stories of mental health challenges.
Do I have to have a mental health problem to come?
No – not at all! Of course, you might come because of your own current issues, or because you are thinking about what a friend or relative might be experiencing. Alternatively, you might have plans to work with those who are experiencing mental health distress and value hearing more about common mental health challenges.
What is the format of the Living Library?
There will be a list of titles with summaries of Books available to choose from. You will book a chat. The conversation will take place relatively privately, within the larger ‘events’ area of the library (towards the rear, no through traffic). The Book will take a few minutes to tell you an outline of their story, and then invite you to ask them anything you want to about their experience. Conversations can last up to 20 minutes, before you return the Book. You can loan as many books as you wish.
Is it OK to ask questions?
Yes! This is an aim of the Living Library – come and ask questions about things that matter to you. Don’t worry unduly about being intrusive (be respectful, of course). The Book will calmly say if they cannot answer your question for any reason.
Can I observe a conversation?
No, the conversations are relatively private. You can take a supportive friend along with you, if a 1-2-1 chat feels a bit overwhelming – but you can’t listen in to other people’s Book readings.
How might talking with a Living Book help me?
You will hear real people manage their own challenges. This can provide a fresh perspective on an issue and help you understand the experiences of other people.
Will the Book give me advice?
No. Books will tell you their stories and will be happy to answer questions you might have. They are not qualified to tell you how to manage your own situation. However, signposting to places that offer support will be available.
Will Books ask me questions?
No. The Book will not ask you about your experiences – they are a living resource. They might ask you what drew you to their story – it’s fine to say it is ‘personal interest’ – or ‘career focused interest’.
Is this like therapy?
No. The Books are just their sharing life stories! You get to think about your own take on their lived experience, but no one will ask you to share anything personal about yourself.
What if I get upset or overwhelmed?
Being a little upset is a normal human experience.
If you are a little upset, ask your Book to give you a moment. If you are very distressed, a member of staff will offer to help you to consider any further support needs.
You can end a conversation at any time by thanking the Book and standing up. The Books will know this means you wish to stop.
What if I feel I need more support after hearing a story?
There will be staff to help you to find available further support – if you want that. There will also be resources, a directory of available help, and information about student mental health services at the library events.
Lancaster University students can also find relevant information about mental health support here: Contact Student Mental Health service | ASK – Lancaster University
Further questions?
Please contact Dr Sam Russell: s.russell1@lancaster.ac.uk