Take time to talk

Talking Change is the primary care mental health service for people in the Portsmouth area who need short term support in difficult times or who are struggling with their mental health. Today (Mon 10 October) is World Mental Health Day, and to help raise awareness, we find out more about the service, and how it helps those who are struggling.

Run by Solent NHS Trust, Talking Change helps people when they need it most, through the simple power of conversation (and other proven types of therapies).

The knowledgeable, caring, and compassionate team of therapists and researchers at Talking Change, specialise in the understanding and treatment of common mental health difficulties, and are truly passionate about reaching people from all walks of life, who need support.

“Talking therapies are psychological treatments for common mental and emotional problems like stress, anxiety and depression”, says Emma, Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) Service Manager at Talking Change.

“However therapy at Talking Change isn’t limited to these issues, we provide talking therapies for all kinds of common difficulties ranging from sleep, to bereavement and loss. Therapy with us involves talking to a trained professional about thoughts, feelings, and behaviour. This may happen one-to-one, in one of courses, online or over the phone. There is a lot of variety available, meaning we can find what works best”, explains Emma.

Emma adds, “For some problems and conditions, one type of talking therapy may be better than another, for example we use cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) in some circumstances, but this may suit some more than others – what matters most is that people are getting the support they need.”

This service has proven to be invaluable to those who are struggling with one service-user, who wishes to remain anonymous saying; “It's been over 20 years since I was diagnosed with anxiety / depression and this is the first non-medication based treatment I've ever been given. It's the only thing I can see having a long-term benefit and it has been so beneficial, the team are wonderful and really know their stuff.”

Alongside therapy, Talking Change offer additional help for important things in life – such as separate appointments with an employment advisor to help people who are struggling to find employment or training, and offer support with workplace adjustments or disputes.

There are also several workshops available through Talking Change, to help people with issues such as weight and sleep - a system of care that is open to all.

If you’re struggling with low mood and anxiety, or with a physical condition such as chronic pain or fatigue, Talking Change can help you cope and feel better. The service is free and confidential, and you can self-refer by calling Talking Change on 0300 123 3934 or by visiting www.talkingchange.nhs.uk