With the ever growing population of individuals facing mental health challenges like depression, the number of clinicians is found to be one of the bottleneck factors in the road to recovery. In addition, many individuals may not feel comfortable enough to seek face-to-face help. Perhaps this new online module developed in Ireland may be the next best solution for individuals facing depression.
This new online module named Life Skills is created by Silver Cloud Health, a research group that includes members of Trinity College Dublin. In order to administer this program, Silver Cloud Health has partnered with Aware, a mental health charity, to allow individuals from all across the globe to partake in this program. Life Skills utilizes theories from cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). CBT acknowledges the often times unhelpful ways of thinking that depressed individuals experience and actively seeks methods in changing these thoughts to help alleviate symptoms associated with depression, stress and anxiety. Each participant who signs up for this program is paired up with a trained volunteer, otherwise known as a “supporter”, who will offer feedback, encouragement and answers to any questions that may arise. The module consists of 8 parts focusing on different topics within the same umbrella of depression, anxiety and stress. The completion of the entire program will take a total of 8 weeks where each module can be done at any time and in any order.
Although this may not offer the same direct feedback as one would receive during in person therapy, this module may provide some temporary relief for individuals who suffer from mild to moderate depression. It does, however, allow individuals to acknowledge and treat their depression in the comfort of their own home. The lack of time constraints may also be beneficial for more in depth and extended reflection on their thought processes.
Take a look at the following websites for more information on the Life Skills program:
http://www.aware.ie/help/life-skills-online-programme-information/
http://www.silvercloudhealth.com/research/publications/article/service-based-evaluation-of-a-therapist-supported-online-CBT-programme
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/284981.php