Published on: 29 June 2018
A book on post-natal depression by a clinical psychologist at Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust is set to appear in libraries nationwide after it was chosen as one of the best books on understanding and managing your mental health.
Michelle Cree’s book ‘The Compassionate Mind Approach to Postnatal Depression: Using Compassion Focused Therapy to Enhance Mood, Confidence and Bonding’ was selected to be part of the Reading Well Books on Prescription scheme after being recommended by health professionals and tried and tested by people with experience of living with the condition.
Reading Well Books on Prescription is a national scheme that helps people to understand and manage their health and wellbeing using self-help reading. The scheme is endorsed by numerous health organisations including the Royal College of Psychiatrists and is supported by public libraries. There are currently four book lists available: Reading Well Books on Prescription for common mental health conditions, for dementia, for young people and for long-term conditions.
Michelle’s book has been chosen to appear on the mental health list. The book builds on the work that Derbyshire Healthcare has done in recent years on compassion-focussed therapy or CFT.
Michelle said: “I only found out that the book had made the list when I was contacted by the publisher. I was really chuffed as it is people with lived experience who have picked the book; that makes it feel like one of the biggest accolades you can have. My publisher was also really excited as it’s the first book on post-natal depression to make the list, so it’s something of a landmark.”
Since writing the book, Michelle has heard from many readers who have found it beneficial. “That’s been really moving, to know that it’s had a profound impact on people,” said Michelle. “I’ve heard that some people are giving it to women who are about to have a baby, who say to them: ‘Even if you are fine once the baby arrives, you will still find this helpful.’”
Ifti Majid, Chief Executive of Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are delighted for Michelle that her book will now feature prominently in libraries across the country and be read by many more people. It is an excellent guide for those who are experiencing mental health problems after giving birth, offering practical advice on how to be compassionate to yourself and others. Michelle is an asset to the Trust and to the people she supports across Derby and Derbyshire.”
