A new campaign has been launched in Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes to inform local people about dedicated NHS services which can help with common mental health problems.
NHS Talking Therapies can provide support and treatment for issues such as feeling anxious, low or hopeless; having panic attacks; finding it hard to cope with work, life or relationships; stress and worrying a lot; or fear of social situations. They can also help if you are struggling with flashbacks or nightmares about upsetting events from your past; obsessive thoughts and behaviours; and phobias (common ones include spiders, flying and heights).
If you’re struggling with any of these feelings and experiences, seeking help through an NHS Talking Therapies service could be one of the best steps you take to overcome your mental health issues and get back on track.
You do not need to have a diagnosed mental health problem to refer yourself to an NHS Talking Therapies service. Getting support as soon as you start having difficulties can help to reduce their impact.
Dr Sarah Whiteman, chief medical director at Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board, said:
“NHS Talking Therapies are there to help tackle some of the most common mental health issues people face. If your mental health is suffering, it can have a huge impact on your work, family and social life.
“Don’t suffer in silence: there is help available for you. The NHS Talking Therapies Service offers free, confidential advice by trained professionals and you can be referred by your GP, or you can refer yourself online if you prefer.
“It’s always OK to ask for help if you are worried about your mental health and getting professional help early can go a long way if you are finding it hard to cope.”
The type of therapy you are offered depends on the symptoms you’re experiencing, and can include guided self-help, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), counselling, or other forms of therapy.
For those whose first language is not English, talking therapies can be delivered through multilingual therapists or through confidential interpreters, and in British Sign Language (BSL) through SignHealth’s NHS Therapies for Deaf People service.
Your GP can refer you for NHS Talking Therapies, or you can refer yourself online at nhs.uk/talk.
