Gloucestershire Talking Therapies is restarting face-to-face courses. The courses are aimed at adults experiencing feelings of low mood or anxiety and run for six weeks.
The hour-long sessions, across Gloucestershire, will use evidence-based cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to provide tools for those looking to improve their mental health and get back on track.
CBT looks at the way our thoughts, feelings and behaviours interact with each other, and how this maintains some of the difficulties we have, such as experiencing low mood and anxiety. By identifying these cycles, CBT works by breaking things down into smaller parts, which helps us feel less overwhelmed and identify steps that can be taken to make positive changes. As sessions focus on learning new skills and techniques, participants are not expected to share their personal information with the group.
Sarah Woods, Clinical Lead and Accredited High Intensity CBT Therapist for Gloucestershire Talking Therapies, says: “We hear from those we support about the difference our courses make in overcoming low mood and managing anxiety. With nearly half* of those living in the South West feeling concerned about their mental health in the last year, we are really pleased that we are running these courses again.
“Research shows that for those who have accessed professional help for an anxiety disorder or depression in the South West, 69% saw an improvement in their mental health, so if you aren’t feeling ok right now, we urge you to reach out. During the sessions we will talk through different CBT techniques to help you manage your mood, and there are also smaller group exercises to help you identify your own cycles, and personalise your treatment. The sooner you seek support, the sooner we can help you feel like you again.”
These courses are part of our Talking Therapies service. In addition to courses, treatments are delivered by our trained therapists, online, on the phone or in person and help adults experiencing feelings of low mood or depression, worry and stress, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress or obsessions and compulsions through evidence-based cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
You do not need to see your GP first or have a diagnosed mental health problem to access this support. Self-referral can be made online at www.letstalkglos.nhs.uk or by calling 0800 073 2200. An initial assessment by a clinician will follow, when you will discuss your needs and the dates/times and locations of the courses. An alternative therapy might be offered, based on the problems currently being faced.
* The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 2008 Consumers in England.
