"Mental health services"

I self referred to IAPT early on in my second pregnancy after my midwife strongly encouraged me to do so. I had had a difficult first pregnancy and labour and was struggling with prolonged insomnia and anxiety, including nocturnal panic attacks that started during my first pregnancy.

I was very swiftly offered self guided CBT sessions, these were extremely helpful in learning how to manage and control worries, how to take advantage of relaxation techniques and how to maintain sleep hygiene to alleviate my chronic insomnia and anxiety. I found these sessions to be an excellent start but still found myself occasionally overwhelmed by fear and anxiety of my upcoming labour and having to care for a newborn and a very young toddler, while trying to juggle a family business and house renovation.

I was then referred to longer sessions with a CBT therapist. I did not know what to expect from these sessions, but I was surprised to find myself starting to dig deep into several issues that may have been contributing and perpetuating my anxiety and tensions (both internal and towards others especially close family members). I found the self reflection in these sessions extremely valuable, and the questioning and guidance provided by the therapist helped me reframe the way I view things - breaking down my worries and making me understand the greater picture. It helped me gain different perspectives on my thoughts and emotions, and gain far greater control over these. It provided me with the tools to learn how to manage my thoughts. The therapist was professional, kind, flexible and easy to speak to. I have found that I’ve become far more relaxed and positive after the experience, and realise how much tension and negativity I was carrying. I would highly recommend the service to anyone and am very grateful for the lifelong lessons they have provided me.