RedArc’s team of professional nurses provided mental health care and support to 23 per cent more patients in 2023 than the previous year.
According to analysis of its year-on-year data, it cites a lack of access to primary care and an overburdened NHS mental health services as factors for increased demand. It’s also a result of the NHS record-long waiting times for adult mental health referrals since November 2023.
RedArc says effective therapy is essential, but it must be adapted to each individual’s needs; ineffective therapy can hamper healing. Specialists should evaluate patients to ensure they receive the appropriate care for the best possible outcomes.
According to RedArc, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and counselling are well-known therapies but several lesser-known therapies may be more effective for some people.
RedArc also points out that when mental health support options are limited and individuals are pushed to choose their own therapy, the likelihood of selecting the wrong option increases.
There are also drawbacks when therapies are time-limited, as individuals require help for as long as necessary to address their issues.
RedArc commercial director Christine Husbands says: “Understandably, when an individual is feeling low, depressed or has anxiety, it’s not unusual for them to seize whatever support is offered to them, or whatever is currently popular, regardless of whether that support is suitable. It’s vital to recognise the vulnerability of those with mental health conditions and offer a full assessment in order to direct them to the most appropriate support.
“Starting the wrong course of treatment can delay the progress of the individual in making a good recovery. Mental health therapies should only be recommended by those who fully understand the appropriateness and advantages of different types and have a full spectrum of options at their disposal.”