Local NHS shines a light on power of talk as clocks go back and nights draw in

With the clocks going back this weekend and the arrival of longer darker nights, the NHS in Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire is encouraging people who need mental health support to reach out and talk to someone.

At this time of year, when daylight hours are fewer, many people often find themselves feeling isolated, which in turn can lead to poorer mental health.

Speaking to friends and family can help to alleviate temporary spells of low mood, but when problems persist and show no signs of improvement, the local NHS has services in place for people to turn to.

Talking therapies can help people to manage a range of common mental health problems, including anxiety, stress, depression and loneliness.

Gordon Muvuti, Executive Director for Mental Health, Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, said: “As a former mental health nurse, I know firsthand just how powerful communication can be, especially when it’s used to help people who feel like they are going through something on their own.

“Talking a problem through, whether it’s with a friend or a trained professional, is often the first step on many people’s journey to improved mental health, and at this time of year, when darker nights can amplify feelings of negativity, seeking support early on can make a real difference.

“The services offered in our region have been purposely designed to feel less like a clinical intervention, and more like a friendly two-way conversation, and I’d strongly encourage any person who is struggling to think about reaching out.”

Provided by Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust, talking therapy can come in a variety of formats, such as face-to-face, online or over the phone.

People accessing talking therapy will be partnered with a trained professional, who will work alongside the individual to help identify the cause of their problem and to suggest possible treatment and support options.

The service operates on a self-referral basis, is completely confidential and available to all people living in Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire who are registered with a local GP and aged 16 or over.

Tammy Ridlington, Service Lead for Wiltshire Talking Therapies, Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust, said: “If you are struggling when the clocks change, and are feeling anxious or worried about how it might affect your routine, you are not alone.

“Why not book an assessment to explore support options like our insomnia course or the SilverCloud online programme? We have new courses starting this November, all of which are designed to help manage and improve their wellbeing.”

To access local talking therapy services, or just to find out more information, visit www.awp.nhs.uk/talkingtherapies or call 01380 715150.