Comedian and author Ruby Wax has spoken about mental health alongside a Buddhist monk at the Oxford Literary Festival.

Ms Wax was joined by Gelong Thubten as the pair shared insights from their books, delving into coping mechanisms during hard times.

Ms Wax is known for appearing on television and her mental health campaigning, earning her an OBE.

She's also an Oxford University graduate with a master's degree in mindfulness-based cognitive therapy.

In her latest publication entitled ‘I’m Not as Well as I Thought I Was’, she shares her own experiences dealing with mental illness.

Ms Wax said: "These days, trying to stay sane in a completely chaotic world makes life incredibly difficult.

"For those readers who are deep in the darkness of mental illness, I hope my book makes you feel less alone."

Mr Thubten's most recent book ‘Handbook for Hard Times: A Monk’s Guide to Fearless Living’ outlines how meditation and mindfulness can facilitate accessing inner strength.

There are a number of famous faces set to feature at the festival over the next few days with Jacqueline Wilson and William Hague both speaking on March 24.