Tracey Johnson Phil Atkinson
I recently hosted our monthly chat. Two local healthcare leads joined me. They bring vital, free support to our community. First is Tracey Johnson, Clinical Lead at Vita Health Group / NHS Talking Therapies. Second is Phil Atkinson from Diabetes UK Brentwood.
You can also do preventative courses, which Tracey talks about in more details during the interview (2 minutes in).
Both services offer incredible resources. They support your physical and emotional wellbeing entirely for free. Are you navigating mental health struggles? Are you managing life with diabetes? Here is how you can access their help.
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1. NHS Talking Therapies (Vita Health Group)
Insights from Clinical Lead Tracey Johnson
Mental health is just as important as physical health. However, reaching out can feel like the hardest step. Tracey explained how Vita Health Group works in direct partnership with the NHS. Consequently, they provide free, confidential, and evidence-based psychological therapies. This service supports adults registered with a GP in the Basildon & Brentwood area [1, 2].
NHS Talking Therapies offer proven tools, techniques, and treatments. For example, they help you handle low mood, constant worry, or everyday stress. They also support people dealing with panic or a lack of motivation. Their team provides tailored toolkits to help you get your life back on track. These guided treatments include:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)Guided self-helpPhone or video counsellingCost: Completely free and NHS-funded.Access: You can self-refer directly. You do not need to see a GP first.Who it is for: Anyone aged 16+ who is registered with a local GP. Contact Vita Health Group (Basildon & Brentwood)
Local Phone Line: 01268 977 171Website & Digital Referral: Visit the official Basildon & Brentwood – Vita Health Group Page. Use their 24/7 digital assistant for a quick self-referral.2. Diabetes UK Brentwood Voluntary Group
Insights from Phil Atkinson
Living with diabetes is a daily balancing act. It affects the individual, their family, and their friends. Fortunately, the Diabetes UK Brentwood Voluntary Group acts as a crucial safety net. They offer friendly companionship and local education.
Are you newly diagnosed? Do you live in the Brentwood area? If so, you can contact Paul directly. You can also join their active local Facebook Group. This is a fantastic way to connect with others who understand your journey. As a result, you can share practical tips and access expert advice in a warm environment.
Vibe: Social, informal, and deeply supportive.Mission: They provide support, combat isolation, and educate the wider Brentwood district.Who it is for: People living with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, prediabetes, carers, and family members. Contact Diabetes UK Brentwood
Group Meeting Hub: Doddinghurst Road Community Church, 56-60 Doddinghurst Road, Brentwood, Essex, CM15 9EH.Group Phone Line: 01277 224299Direct Group Email: [email protected]Facebook Community: Search for Diabetes UK Brentwood Voluntary Group on Facebook to join their online support community.The post Eat my Brunch – Free Mental Health Therapy & Diabetes Support appeared first on Phoenix FM.