This programme is based on a type of psychological treatment called Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
CBT can help you manage your anxiety by changing the way you think (the cognitive part) and what you do (the behavioural part).
The four weekly booklets that make up this programme are designed for you to work through independently, at home.
As you go through each booklet, it will help you to better understand anxiety, how anxiety and PH can be connected, and how anxiety can become a problem.
It will then help you to develop useful strategies aimed at better managing your anxiety.
The programme is suitable for people affected by pulmonary hypertension who are experiencing worry and anxiety. As well as people with a diagnosis, it is also suitable for their loved ones (family or friends) who may also be experiencing these difficulties.
This programme is not suitable for those with extremely severe anxiety, or people experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide. In this instance, you must seek immediate support.
The workbooks are designed to be completed at a rate of one per week, meaning the programme should take four weeks to complete.
Working through them at this pace gives you optimum time to understand the different sections and practice the strategies, before moving onto the next booklet.
No. The programme is free for anyone affected by pulmonary hypertension. This includes people with a diagnosis, and those around them (such as family and friends) too.
As part of its development, the programme was tested in a study of 138 people with PH. 100% of those who completed it as part of this study reported that it helped them with their anxiety and 88% said they felt more in control of it.
You can find out more about the study here.
If symptoms of worry and anxiety remain problematic after you have completed the workbooks, there are organisations that can help.
Please contact your GP, who will be able to talk to you about what’s available in your local area. You might also find the following tools and organisations helpful:
NHS self-help
Guided self-help, apps and online tools. Click here to access this dedicated section of the NHS website.
Anxiety UK
An independent charity that supports people living with anxiety, stress and anxiety-based depression.
Samaritans
Samaritans provide emotional support to anyone in emotional distress, struggling to cope, or at risk of suicide. Their free helpline is available 24 hours a day by calling 116 123 and their website also contains helpful tools and resources.
Mind
Mind provide advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem.
