Healthy Inside and Out : Talking Therapies

I'm becoming far more aware of the wonderful facilities we have in Bracknell Forest, and across Berkshire, for physical health, but also increasingly. for our mental well being. The latest of these that I have discovered is Talking Therapies.

Talking Therapies was set up in 2008 with the aim of providing easy access to support for depression or anxiety-based problems. Support can take many forms, from short term help of 6-10 sessions, face to face or over the phone, to Wellbeing and Stress Control courses. The service is available from 8-8pm Monday to Thursdays and 8-5pm on Fridays and accessible either via referral from your GP or by self referral, via a form on the website.

There's still a great amount of stigma surrounding depression and anxiety in our society but it's becoming easier and easier to get help. Raising awareness of these services helps, as does making them as easy as possible to access. Providing the support requires a lot of commitment from those who work for the service but having met them I know that they are truly dedicated, kind, considerate and want to make a difference.

Exercise can help with depression and anxiety issues too and that's why I'm working with my local council and Talking Therapies, amongst others, to promote a Back To Fitness scheme, details of which can be found on my website.

If you know of anyone who may benefit from either Talking Therapies or Back to Fitness, please pass on the information.