Anthony thanks TALKWORKS

Anthony was referred to TALKWORKS after speaking to his GP about the difficulties he was experiencing. Through regular therapy and support from his clinician, he was able to make helpful changes and get back to doing the things he used to enjoy:

“I suffered a near fatal illness during lockdown. I spent 3 weeks in a specialist neurological unit and suffered really distressing hallucinations.  For months after I was haunted by memories of my illness. They took over my life leaving me a shadow of my old self and unable to feel pleasure. I suspected I had PTSD as I am a former Coastguard and had similar problems 20 years ago which never really went away.

My GP referred me to TALKWORKS. After an initial assessment and conversations with a therapist, we came to the conclusion that I was suffering from severe PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). It was recommended that I undertake a course of EMDR. I spoke to friends who work in mental health who told me this often works for people like me so I decided to try it.  I had 16 virtual 1:1 sessions.  The practitioner was great, she was so understanding. Week by week we processed the memories and the difficulties that they caused at home and at work. Over 4 months I learned that I could put the experience behind me and get back to more normal life. I learned to enjoy things again and that I was a capable professional.

Since starting therapy with TALKWORKS, I really feel I have moved on. I have an underlying brain injury and now have a greater understanding of the impact that this will have on my life going forward, and the changes that I can make at home and at work.  I am really grateful to Liz for her patience and understanding. If you put in a lot of effort, it really does work.”

Have you been feeling low, anxious or stressed? Or have you been experiencing sleep difficulties, panic attacks or constant worry? If you would like to access support, you can reach out to TALKWORKS, without needing to see your GP first. You can self-refer today by calling the team on 0300 555 3344 (our phone lines are open Monday to Friday from 9:00am – 4:45pm) or completing the online self-referral form on our website.