Free therapy service for depressed pensioners available

PENSIONERS experiencing anxiety, low mood and depression are being urged to try a free talking therapy service.

One in four people over 65 are affected by mental ill health — but this group is the least likely to access support, according to Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust (RDaSH).

The trust runs Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT), offering talking therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy and counselling.

These methods are used to treat feelings of low mood, anxiety and issues with daily life and relationships.

Team manager James Bell said: “One in four people over 65 are affected by depression, but this age group is the least likely to seek support.

“This means that conditions like depression go undiagnosed and untreated.

“I would urge anyone to get in touch and take advantage of the talking therapies on offer.”

The talking therapies are available free to Rotherham residents aged 18 years and over.

Local people can self-refer into the service and access a range of talking therapies and information that includes prevention and self-help literature. 

Call Rotherham IAPT on 01709 447755 or visit www.talkingsense.org for more information or to self-refer. 

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