Talking therapy services offer vital coping strategies for people suffering mental ill-health

Some people might question why they should consider talking therapies and what benefits they might find from doing so. Here we explore some of the benefits of the Improved Access to Psychological Therapies – or ‘IAPT’ – services on offer in London.

“You’ll learn new ways of thinking and coping, how to improve your mood and your approach to challenging issues in your life,” says Monton Jienpetivate, Clinical Lead and Consultant Counselling Psychologist for Newham IAPT.

“When you’ve tried everything and things don’t seem to improve it might be time to consider professional help, we welcome self-referral and professional referral, for help please visit our website.”

Londoners who are struggling can contact their local IAPT service for support and advice quickly and easily via the web or telephone, but there are also a number of things people can do to help improve their overall mental health and well-being including:

• Keep Active – exercise can lift your mood and take your mind off depression 
• Healthy Diet – eating healthier food will generally make you feel better 
• Drink and eat sensibly - manage your consumption of alcohol and be careful to not exceed the recommended daily limit. Eat well and maintain a healthy and nutritious diet. 
• Connect with others – combat isolation by engaging with friends and family, meet people at local community groups and/or organisations.

More information about the IAPT services provided by East London NHS Foundation Trust can be found here:

Newham: www.newhamtalkingtherapies.nhs.uk or call 0208 475 8080

Richmond: www.richmondwellbeingservice.nhs.uk or call 020 8548 5550

Luton: www.lutonwellbeingservice.nhs.uk or call 01582 393 130 

Bedford: Call 01582 393144