Post two: post-therapy blues

Post two.

A friend has recently been struggling with depression. Been there, done that. Not good fun.

I studied psychology during my undergrad so picked up a few insights into how mental illness works and how you can start thinking about treating it. I worked at a mental health clinic for a year who specialised in depression. I'm no expert but I can provide a few insights and will always offer support as a psychologist and a friend.

My friend's issue, which I think is a big concern, is post-treatment blues. She underwent cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), a practical, hands-on therapy focused on building skills for the future and not dwelling on the past. I think 5-10 sessions is average (its the NHS so expect 5). After this, you're given the skills to tackle these low moods when they arise next. Great. No problem. Right? Well...

Talking to someone without an ulterior motive is invaluable. an external view, someone without judgement. Loosing that can be hard, you can feel like you've been left out in the cold. You're not alone.

My advice (and her therapists, I must have some idea what I'm talking about) is to maintain the routine. If sessions are 5pm on a Wednesday, sit down at 5pm on a Wednesday and write down everything you would want to say to the therapist. Get it all out. then take a break, have a cup of tea, watch TV, clear your mind. Then come back to it, read it, imagine you're the therapist. What advice would you give yourself?
Then burn it (its been proven to help - burn up the negative energy)

Good luck

Post one: admin

Post One.

Reason for blog: If i knew what i know now I wouldn't be where I am today.

About me:
Sophie
24yo
London

UG Psychology

I wanted to set up a blog to dictate and discuss my challenges with mental illness with the aim of helping others who find themselves in similar situations. If I can support just one person on their journey through life I will be happy. I also need something to do to keep myself stimulated. I don't like being bored.

Posts will be sporadic - as much as i like routine I sometimes just don't have anything interesting to say.

There probably wont be an order - life is happening now, and so is my mental awareness.

OK lets go.