Access through the NHS
The new Depression Guidelines (published in October 2009), written for the NHS by NICE (the National Institute of Health and Clinical excellence) say that CCBT should be available as one of the options for people who have mild, moderate, or persistent sub-threshold depression. The other options are exercise and guided self – help (CBT in a book) and the final decision is up to you based on your own preference.
Beating the Blues is the most advanced computerised program for depression and the only one with evidence of effectiveness in the NHS . If you live in the UK you should be offered computerised CBT as a part of your treatment. Make sure you get the best quality – ask for Beating the Blues
Beating the Blues is available completely free of charge from the NHS. If you think that it could help treat your depression you should ask your GP or health care worker who should be able to arrange for you to use the program.
The NHS Availability Map lists the availability of Beating the Blues by PCTs. If your area is covered and your GP thinks you need the treatment, then you should be able to get free access.
You may wish to take some of the information on this site with you to help explain to them why you think Beating the Blues will help you. You can download a leaflet about Beating the Blues.
You may also wish to visit the NHS website and find out how your local NHS manages depression care by entering your postcode.
Some people who do not wish to go to their GP may choose to purchase access through The Wellness Shop.