Stresspac is a seven week skills training group. It is a first step intervention for people with anxiety issues.
What happens at this group?
This is a educational group which aims to teach people the signs and symptoms of anxiety and how it affects your body, thoughts and actions. It provides practical tips on how to use breathing techniques, progressive muscular relaxation, exercise to combat anxiety, strategies to manage negative thoughts, strategies to break down avoidance behaviours, and education on sleep, depression and coping strategies. Group members are asked to practice strategies they learn in the group in between sessions, complete diaries and work on individual goals.
The group process works best when people attend all seven sessions.
Who should go on this programme?
People with generalised anxiety disorder, panic disorder, phobic anxiety & social anxiety. It is also suitable for people with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder as an add-on to individual therapy.Having group support from people in a similar situation is an important element of this group.
Will I have to speak in the group session?
No, some people like to share experiences and others prefer to listen.
How do I get on this programme?
Any member of your mental health team can refer you to Stresspac. You can ask to be referred at the outpatient clinic.
What happens next?
You will be contacted by a staff member, usually an Occupational Therapist. You will be sent two questionnaires to complete and return by post to Sheaf House. When the information is received, we will contact you to go through an assessment either by phone or in person to ensure the group is the right fit for you and to answer any questions you may have.
Where and when does the group meet?
The group meets once a week, for seven weeks. Usually from 10am to 12noon on a Wednesday in the conference room in Sheaf House. There can be up to 16 people in the group.
How long does the programme last?
Seven weeks. Group members are then invited for a one to one follow up session twelve weeks after the group ends if they have completed four or more of the seven sessions.
Who runs the programme?
At present the programme is run by two Occupational Therapists.
Is there a waiting list?
You may have to wait for the group if you are referred while there is on ongoing group programme. The group is run two to three times a year depending on demand.
Where can I find out more?
You can contact the Occupational Therapist in Sheaf House on 01 463 5200.
