The online cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) treatment programme ‘Beating the Blues’ is now available to use on tablets and smart phones as well as PCs and laptops.

The programme is more flexible, patient-focused and easier to use when delivering online CBT to people who are experiencing depression and/or anxiety.

The programme is made up of eight individual sessions, with each session containing three to five modules. Each module will take about 10-15 minutes to complete and can assist users to learn CBT techniques that can help with depression and anxiety.

Participants are able to complete the course online in their own home or at a community site, such as a library.

The referral process has not changed, however, referrers should provide an up-to-date email address for patients, as they will be sent a link via email to set up a Beating the Blues account. Referrals can still be made to the service directly via the SCI gateway (for GPs) or by posting to Diane Reilly, cCBT service, Houldsworth Centre, level two, Kennilworth Avenue, Wishaw, ML2 7LP or emailing a referral form to Lan.beatingtheblues@nhs.net.

To download a referral form, or patient information leaflet, visit: www.elament.org.uk/self-help-resources/beating-the-blues/

For more information on the programme, contact Diane Reilly on 01355 597999 or visit http://www.beatingtheblues.co.uk