People in Wirral experiencing low mood, stress or anxiety can access psychological talking therapies by referring themselves – no GP referral required.
That’s the message that NHS Wirral Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) wants to share with people across the borough.
Dr Paula Cowan, Medical Director at NHS Wirral CCG said: “1 in 4 people will experience a problem with their mental wellbeing at some point in their life. Talking therapies is not a crisis service, but a chance to access mental health support at an early stage, when you are feeling low, stressed or anxious.
“Seeking support through talking therapies early on can make a real difference to recovery, and can equip you with the tools and support you need to help prevent a mental health situation becoming worse.”
People over the age of 16 and registered with a Wirral GP Practice can access talking therapies which include cognitive behavioural therapies, bereavement support, counselling, and groups/courses to help people better understand and improve their mental health.
These therapies come under the national NHS IAPT (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies) programme.
Dr Cowan added: “Last year there were some delays in people accessing talking therapies in Wirral, but we are pleased to say that waiting times are now in line with national targets, to ensure that people get the right help when they need it.”
GP referrals are also in place for people who wish to talk to their GP about how they are feeling first.
If you would like to directly access Wirral’s talking therapies service or find out more, call:
- 0151 649 1859
- or visit www.wirralccg.nhs.uk
Talking therapies do not offer support for mental health emergencies.
If you need to talk to someone urgently, visit http://www.cwp.nhs.uk/crisis/
or call your GP, 111 or 999.
