Telford and Wrekin Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) is a free NHS Improving Access to Psychological Therapies service which helps people with mild to moderate depression, anxiety disorders and issues with sleep.

Recognising that we all lead busy lives and have conflicting demands on our time, Telford and Wrekin IAPT offers SilverCloud, an online therapy package designed to support those with mental health problems who may struggle to make regular physical appointments.

SilverCloud offers a package of programmes which are based on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) techniques, in a way that suits the individual, in their own time and at their own pace, whilst still having regular online reviews and support from a trained practitioner.

A recent user of SilverCloud shares their experience of navigating the package and explains how it benefitted them:

“As soon as I logged in I liked the site. Whilst I do not do social media, I can work my way round a computer despite my dyslexia. I quickly navigated the pages, reviewed my tools and clocked how my supporter would be able to give suggestions around my thought process.

“It is easy to forget just how all-consuming depression can be. A few months on I have nearly completed the programme and feel on good form. Yes, time is a good healer but I know that the programme enables me to see how my thoughts shape my behaviour and wellbeing. SilverCloud showed me things can change and are not hard wired. With honest reflection and a steer via the modules I was able to see things from a different perspective.

“By working online and at my own pace I was enabled to get some immediate goals and slowly get back on track. I found I was more able to be truthful with myself logging on discreetly. I suspect if I had been in front of a therapist I would have modified my answers to be evasive.

“I have enough sense to appreciate this won’t be my last bought of depression but I feel better equipped to manage my mental health when it is low.”

More information on SilverCloud can be found here: https://twiapt.mpft.nhs.uk/silvercloud

People aged 16+ and registered with a Telford and Wrekin GP, and who are not currently being seen by another mental health team, can self-refer to the service here: https://twiapt.mpft.nhs.uk/silvercloud/silvercloud-self-referral

To use SilverCloud, access to a computer, smart phone or tablet is needed and users need to be confident in using the internet and apps.