NHS Berkshire Talking Therapies

NHS Berkshire Talking Therapies Account monitored M-F 9am-5pm. Start feeling better with Free and confidential NHS treatment for low mood, worry, sleep problems and phobias

Sometimes our efforts go unnoticed, but that doesn’t mean they’re not worth celebrating.If you're feeling overlooked, gi...
27/07/2025

Sometimes our efforts go unnoticed, but that doesn’t mean they’re not worth celebrating.

If you're feeling overlooked, give yourself the credit you deserve.

What are three things you've achieved this week that you deserve credit for?

Becoming a parent for the first time is a life-changing experience. When you add into the mix, sleep deprivation and li...
27/07/2025

Becoming a parent for the first time is a life-changing experience. When you add into the mix, sleep deprivation and lifestyle changes, such as stepping away from a career you've enjoyed or perhaps managing on a reduced income, it can feel overwhelming.

It's not just mums that experience these feelings - dads do too!

Local support groups can be really helpful during this time, offering the chance to meet with other parents who are likely going through similar experiences.

If you’re struggling, speak to your health visitor, and if your low mood doesn’t improve after a few weeks, can offer additional support. We prioritise new parents and, where possible, aim to offer an appointment within 28 days of referral.

We routinely check our appearance in the mirror, but it's important to reflect inwardly too.Positive self-reflection is ...
26/07/2025

We routinely check our appearance in the mirror, but it's important to reflect inwardly too.

Positive self-reflection is about taking time to examine our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours in an honest and compassionate way.

We sometimes only engage in deep reflection during major life events such as loss, a change of lifestyle, or when we experience emotional challenges. Getting into the habit of practicing self-reflection helps us realign with our values, and make adjustments where needed so that we can let go of what's not important.

Laughter is one of the simplest and most effective tools for supporting our emotional and physical wellbeing.Shared laug...
26/07/2025

Laughter is one of the simplest and most effective tools for supporting our emotional and physical wellbeing.

Shared laughter can break down barriers, diffuse tension in tricky conversations, encourage openness, and build trust between people.

When we laugh with others, we feel more connected to each other, which helps to build bonds and improve our sense of wellbeing.


Life can feel overwhelming sometimes and having a wellbeing toolbox is a way of using self-care to get through these cha...
25/07/2025

Life can feel overwhelming sometimes and having a wellbeing toolbox is a way of using self-care to get through these challenging times.

It’s essentially a personal toolkit, filled with small things that help you relax when you feel anxious or stressed.

Here are some ideas to get started:

💙 A handwritten letter from a friend, a photo that brings back good memories, or a prompt to message someone you trust.

💙Pop in a book you love, a puzzle, a hobby guide, or even a list of skills you’ve developed as a reminder that you’re always growing.

💙 Include something that encourages movement: a resistance band, a playlist, a yoga video QR code - whatever works for you.

💙 Add a blank thank-you card, a list of kindness ideas, or something small to gift to someone.

💙 Mindfulness cards, a calming scent, a smooth stone to hold, or a note reminding you to take a few deep breaths and connect with your senses.

Keep your box somewhere easy to reach, and fill it with things that comfort and inspire you.

There are many reasons why people might face barriers to getting the support they need - stigma, cultural beliefs, lack ...
25/07/2025

There are many reasons why people might face barriers to getting the support they need - stigma, cultural beliefs, lack of awareness, or difficulty accessing services can all play a part.

At , we’re committed to removing those barriers, and we're continuously reviewing and improving our approach, so that everyone has access to the support and treatment they need, when they need it.

They are several ways you can get in touch:

💻Complete our online referral form https://ow.ly/LXa150WsySk
📞Call us on 0300 365 2000 to refer by phone. You can also email us at talkingtherapies@berkshire.nhs.uk

👨‍⚕️Ask your GP or care professional to refer you

🖌️Image credit, Instagram

Sometimes the thought of being alone can feel daunting. While we may naturally crave the company of others, spending ti...
24/07/2025

Sometimes the thought of being alone can feel daunting. While we may naturally crave the company of others, spending time alone can also be important in supporting our wellbeing.

Solitary time creates space for self-reflection, personal growth, and emotional recovery. Learning to enjoy your own company can be empowering. It’s an opportunity to explore your passions without distractions.

It’s also important to remember that aloneness is not the same as loneliness. If solitude starts to feel isolating or overwhelming, it might be a sign that it’s time to reach out and spend time with others.

As with most things in life, it’s about balance, looking after your need for quiet and your need for connection.

When you're in the middle of a difficult time, it can feel like the pain or stress will never end. But just like the sea...
24/07/2025

When you're in the middle of a difficult time, it can feel like the pain or stress will never end. But just like the seasons change, so do our emotions and circumstances. Life is full of highs and lows, and it's important to remind ourselves that many challenges are temporary.

If you're struggling, take a breath. This moment, no matter how heavy, will pass. Healing isn’t always immediate, but with time, support, and self-compassion, brighter days do come.

Hold on. You're not alone. And things will get better.


Self-acceptance plays an important role in our mental health and overall wellbeing. When you’re able to accept yourself ...
23/07/2025

Self-acceptance plays an important role in our mental health and overall wellbeing.

When you’re able to accept yourself fully, you’re better equipped to cope with everyday challenges. It helps you manage stress more effectively and supports positive change in your life.

Practising self-acceptance also means worrying less about what others think. This allows you to view situations more clearly and be less harsh or critical of yourself.

Over time, self-acceptance builds emotional resilience and allows you to develop a healthier, more compassionate relationship with yourself.


Defence mechanisms are often automatic responses to stress, emotional conflict, or past trauma. They're like our mind's ...
23/07/2025

Defence mechanisms are often automatic responses to stress, emotional conflict, or past trauma.

They're like our mind's way of trying to protect us from discomfort or distress.

Common defence mechanisms include things like:
➡️Avoidance
➡️Compensation
➡️Denial
➡️Humour
➡️Projection

If you find yourself struggling in relationships or having difficulty accessing your real emotions during uncomfortable situations, it may be a sign that you're relying on defence mechanisms.

Once you become aware of these patterns, you can begin to explore healthier ways of processing difficult thoughts and emotions which improves self awareness and your overall wellbeing.

🖌️Image credit, Instagram .love.therapist


Did you know that while Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is most often associated with the winter months, some people ...
22/07/2025

Did you know that while Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is most often associated with the winter months, some people experience it during the summer too?

Summer SAD is often linked to factors like high temperatures, humidity, and extended daylight hours, all of which can disrupt sleep patterns and affect our internal body clocks.

Common symptoms include:

☀️Decreased appetite
☀️Insomnia
☀️Restlessness or agitation
☀️Anxiety
☀️Unpredictable mood or behaviour

Taking care of your wellbeing during the summer is just as important as in winter. Here are a few tips:

✔️Stay hydrated and eat nourishing meals
✔️Try to maintain a consistent daily routine
✔️Make your sleep environment as cool and dark as possible
✔️Don’t feel pressured to always be outdoors — indoor activities can offer a much-needed break from the heat

Remember, looking after your mental health is important all year-round, regardless of the season.

Today, on Windrush Day, it's a chance to recognise the strength and resilience shown by so many in the face of injustice...
22/07/2025

Today, on Windrush Day, it's a chance to recognise the strength and resilience shown by so many in the face of injustice, exclusion and adversity.

We, at understand that historical and cultural experiences can impact our mental health and the way we access support.

If you're struggling with low mood, anxiety, or stress, you’re not alone - and you don’t have to face it in silence. Our free, confidential services are here for everyone, and we’re committed to providing care that’s inclusive, respectful and culturally sensitive.

Address

Bracknell

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 8pm
Tuesday 8am - 8pm
Wednesday 8am - 8pm
Thursday 8am - 8pm
Friday 8am - 5pm

Telephone

+443003652000

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