SilverCloud online Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Residents in Powys now have access to online support if they are struggling with stress, anxiety, or other mental health related issues.
Anyone who is a Powys resident/patient, aged 16 or above, is now able to access the health boards online Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) programme, SilverCloud, without having to first have an appointment with your local GP or other health professional. This service is only suitable for people experiencing mild to moderate mental health symptoms.
Joy Garfitt, Assistant Director for Mental Health Service at Powys Teaching Health Board said: “During these difficult and challenging times of social distancing and self-isolating due to the Coronavirus pandemic, it is paramount that we look after our mental wellbeing just as much as our physical health. In Wales, 1 in 4 people will experience mental health problems or illness at some point, having an enormous effect on our daily lives and those around us.
“Current access to a GP practice or a health professional for advice is very difficult at this time due to unprecedented pressure and demand on our health care system, but support is available online without having to put yourself or family at risk by leaving your home.
“If you are feeling mild levels of stress, depression or anxiety, please don’t leave it too late to get support. SilverCloud is a simple and effective online resource that will give you hints and tips of how to cope during these difficult times.”
Residents can access SilverCloud here where you will be prompted to follow a few simple steps to register. Once registered, there are a number of programmes available to you including how to cope with stress, anxiety, depression and specific modules linked to Coronavirus – COVID-19.
You will also be appointed a SilverCloud Supporter who will make contact with you, and check in every two weeks to see how you are getting on.
One member of SilverCloud wrote: “The journal part of the programme has been particularly useful, allowing me to look back on what I wrote when feeling my worst, and realising how far I have come.”
Note: SilverCloud is not a crisis service. If you are in crisis or feeling very distressed, you must contact your supportive family, friends, your GP, or one of the other contacts suggested below for support:
- DAN 24/7 Single point of contact for anyone in Wales wanting information or help with regards to drugs and alcohol. Tel – 0808 808 2234.
- GP Out of Hours Service – NHS Direct Wales on 111.
- Samaritans -116 123.
- Y.A.N.A You Are Not Alone – 0300 323 0400 (Information & support for the farming community).