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Silvercloud

SilverCloud

SilverCloud is a treatment option for patients using the Wiltshire IAPT service. It is an online cognitive behavioural programme with separate modules to effectively treat anxiety and depression. It can be tailored to the individual and is designed to be motivational, easy to use and interactive; supporting the user to learn about and develop evidenced based CBT techniques for a variety of common mental health problems.

Please have a look at what NHS Choices say about SilverCloud by here, you can also visit the SilverCloud website to find out more information.

What’s involved?

An online learning environment allows users to access SilverCloud content at any time; as they work through the modules at their own pace.
Each programme provides a series of tools, activities and education on anxiety and depression, delivered in a safe and confidential space.
A flexible learning approach and support is offered from the Wiltshire IAPT service in a series of online and telephone reviews with a dedicated supporter over a 12 week period.
You can share content with your supporter which will allow them to provide personal guidance that is relevant to you. This can be carried out through secure messages and a personal journal.
Once patients have been set up with access to SilverCloud they will be able to access the system via the web or by downloading an app (iOS or android).

How do I access SilverCloud?

To access SilverCloud, patients will need to book a face to face or telephone appointment with an IAPT practitioner in their GP surgery. Practitioners will then be able to assess their needs choosing from the programme options, to tailor their SilverCloud experience. This appointment must be made by the patient by calling the IAPT service.

Who is appropriate for SilverCloud?

SilverCloud is appropriate for people suffering from mild-moderate depression and/or anxiety as their primary problem. Whilst the modules offered also cover stress and other difficulties, people need to be suffering from depression and/or anxiety alongside this in order to be appropriate for our service. Patients need to be over 16 years of age and need to be registered with a GP in Wiltshire.

SilverCloud is appropriate if you would like to work through guided self-help material at your own pace but it would be difficult to attend appointments.

Here is some additional information on what to expect from the individual modules Wiltshire IAPT service offer:

Anxiety

This programme can help the user to manage their generalised anxiety, challenge anxious thoughts and feel better. This programme teaches skills and strategies to tackle anxiety now and in the future. Increasing awareness of moods and anxious thoughts, managing worry, challenge anxious and distorted thoughts, facing fears and develop coping skills

Depression

This programme has been developed to help the user to manage their low mood, challenge negative thoughts and become more aware of daily triggers. The programme offers information on the importance of monitoring your mood and the links between thoughts, mood and behaviour. It includes a mood monitor, a journal and lifestyle choices chart.

We also offer support through modules aimed at supporting you through Stress, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Panic, Phobia, Health Anxiety and Social Anxiety.

Your supporter will also be able to offer you information and further support through additional modules including:

  • My Self-esteem and I
  • Sleep Difficulties Module
  • Relaxation Module
  • Behavioural Experiments
  • Employment Support
  • Anger Management

What if it doesn’t help?

The majority of individuals who use SilverCloud find it very helpful and complete the full programme. However, some people begin working through the programme and find it’s not for them and that’s alright too. We’re here to help you so if you think SilverCloud isn’t the right choice for you after all; the best thing to do is to let your supporter know how you are feeling. Your supporter can then get in touch to discuss any concerns, issues or questions you have about SilverCloud and help you decide on what you would like to do next. Help is always available so, don’t hesitate to ask.

The fact that it was online meant that I was able to
access the programme from the comfort of my home
at a time when it suited me

It was great to know that a therapist was reviewing my work and reading my journal entries and offering feedback. It meant I could get the support I needed each week without having to meet face-to-face with the therapist.

I found myself more light-hearted and I think this is because I was less caught up in my own head. I wasn’t over-analysing as much. My attitude towards others and towards myself completely took a turn for the positive.