Recent developments in bibliotherapy for adolescent depression

Objective This review systematically examines the current research on bibliotherapy for adolescent depressive disorders, emphasizing its efficacy and potential as a non-pharmacological intervention, while also considering the variations across different types of bibliotherapy and inherent limitations of the intervention itself. Methods A narrative review of the literature was conducted to explore the therapeutic mechanisms of bibliotherapy—including emotional resonance, cognitive restructuring, and social support—and to analyze various application models, such as guided versus unguided formats, creative versus self-help bibliotherapy, group reading, individualized interventions, and emerging digital approaches. Results Evidence indicates that bibliotherapy can effectively reduce depressive symptoms in adolescents across diverse intervention strategies. Both creative and self-help bibliotherapy, as well as group-based and individualized formats, have shown promising outcomes, particularly when integrated with structured discussion or other therapeutic approaches like CBT and mindfulness. However, the intervention’s effectiveness can be moderated by factors such as text selection, reader characteristics, and cultural context. Potential limitations include emotional triggering from certain narratives, variability in individual engagement, and inconsistent long-term efficacy, especially among adolescents. Existing studies are further constrained by small sample sizes, brief intervention periods, and a lack of standardized material selection criteria. Conclusion Bibliotherapy represents a valuable, accessible intervention for adolescent depression, yet its application requires careful implementation to mitigate potential drawbacks. Future research should focus on large-scale, multicenter trials, further investigation of neuroscientific mechanisms, development of personalized reading programs, establishment of practitioner training systems, and cross-cultural adaptation. Efforts should also address ethical and privacy concerns, particularly within digital platforms, and explore creative integration with complementary therapeutic methods to enhance overall efficacy and safety.