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Dialogic Literary Gatherings (DLGs) have emerged as a successful educational action with significant mental health benefits. These gatherings, where participants engage in collective discussions about classic literary works, have been shown to enhance mentalizing abilities, self-reflection, and emotional regulation. A recent study published in BMC Psychology highlights the positive impact of DLGs on individuals with psychosis in a psychiatric hospital in northern Spain, demonstrating improvements in their capacity to understand themselves and others, and to integrate emotions into their personal experiences.

One of the most striking aspects of DLGs is their ability to foster social connection and cognitive stimulation. Individuals diagnosed with psychosis often struggle with fragmented self-perception and impaired social cognition. Through engaging discussions on classic literature, participants develop empathy, gain insight into their own thoughts and emotions, and find new ways to relate to others. The structured yet open-ended nature of these gatherings creates a safe space for meaningful dialogue, enabling participants to express themselves freely and reflect on life experiences in a constructive manner.

The first implementation of DLGs in a mental health setting can be traced back to the Adults school of La Verneda-Sant Martí in Barcelona. The practice was implemented for therapeutic purposes when a participant, after a period of absence, returned and shared her story. She had been hospitalized in a mental health center, and the first place she wanted to return to was the DLG, emphasizing how beneficial it had been for her recovery. Inspired by this, in 2016, professionals proposed integrating DLGs into the mental health services at the Forum Mental Health Center in Barcelona. After that, a European project was conducted to transfer the experience around Europe. There are other experiences in this regard, similar to those already mentioned in this journal.

A key element in the success of DLGs lies in the selection of classic literary works. One example highlighted in the study is ThMetamorphosis by Franz Kafka. The protagonist, Gregor Samsa, undergoes a dramatic transformation that isolates him from society and his own family. For individuals with schizophrenia, engaging in discussions about Gregor’s experiences proved to be particularly meaningful. They could relate to his sense of alienation and use the narrative as a tool to articulate their own struggles.

One of the core reasons behind the success of DLGs in mental health contexts is the collaborative approach between academics and mental health professionals from the center. This collaboration ensured that the intervention was scientifically grounded while being adapted to the needs of the participants.

As mental health services continue to explore innovative interventions, DLGs stand out as a compelling, evidence-based practice with the capacity to empower individuals through dialogue and classic literature. By engaging individuals in meaningful discussions, these gatherings contribute to improved self-awareness, social integration, and emotional well-being.

Associate Professor at University of Granada

Coordinator at la Verneda-Sant Martí Learning Community and adjunct professor at the University of Barcelona