Being referred for counselling - 3/4 month wait. In the meantime?

[cjt110]

So, I've been referred for counselling through IAPT. The waiting time is 3-4 months. What do I do in the meantime to keep myself sane and safe?

Also, when would you tell work you are attending counselling? I ask because the sessions will be the same time each week and likely be during office hours meaning I need to leave work to attend.

Do they need any more info than "I need to take Thursday mornings off for medical appointments for six weeks"?

It's hard to know what kind of thing would help in the meantime without any more information - I'd normally suggest something like Mood Gym, but since you're likely going to be doing CBT with the therapist that might not be helpful. Do you like the idea of mindfulness? Then if things get really bad there's the Samaritans.

I am anxious, stressed, low, and my anger is almost out of control.

I suppose they don't need to know any more but if they enquire, I guess I would need to tell them. It would perhaps also explain to them how I have been lately too.

I downloaded the headspace app - is that like the mood gym?

Moodgym is a website with a course of self-led CBT that you work through at your own pace. Headspace is a mindfulness app that leads you through exercises to help learn how to notice your body, your thoughts, etc., without judging them. I found it useful. there are only ten different exercises, though, unless you pay, but that might be enough anyway. I also like Smiling Mind, which is similar. Definitely try the Headspace app - I really like it.

Thank you. I am proud to have started my journey but I am certain it is a long journey. I will get between 8 and 10 sessions with IAPT.

Great - it's a long wait, but I really hope the sessions help!

Trying to see if I can find something in the meantime

Are you being referred for counselling specifically or CBT? The anxiety you mention would be better tackled by CBT. The books on prescription scheme at local libraries contains a number of useful books. One is 'Overcoming Anxiety'. I also think this Minfulness book is very good www.amazon.co.uk/Mindfulness-practical-guide-finding-frantic/dp/074995308X

I am being referred for Counselling YouOKHun as opposed to CBT

I will certainly have a look at my local library and your recommendations too. Thank you.