Myles, a former pilot from West Cornwall, has experienced a life-altering recovery from depression, thanks to an addition to Cornwall’s mental health services. The Talking Therapies has recently expanded to include interpersonal psychotherapy, a method that has been a game-changer for individuals suffering from mild to moderate depression.
Myles, whose life as a military and commercial airline pilot was upended during the pandemic, faced redundancy, leading to a period of isolation and difficulty adjusting to life back in his home county. “Everything I thought I was had disappeared,” Myles shared, describing his struggle with becoming reclusive, excessive alcohol consumption, and reliance on his wife for social interaction.
Interpersonal psychotherapy, the treatment that Myles underwent, focuses on the critical connection between relationships and depression. This structured and practical therapy differs from other forms by emphasising less on emotions and more on the active participation of the patient in improving their relationships.
Myles’ journey to recovery began with a visit to the GP, prompted by his wife, where he was diagnosed with mild depression and referred to the Talking Therapies service. Under the guidance of Laura Matthews, the Talking Therapies Counselling and Psychotherapy Professional Lead, Myles embarked on a 16-week program, comprising 50-minute sessions.
Laura Matthews explains, “The therapy requires commitment from the patient to examine and enhance their current relationships.” The therapy focused on helping Myles adapt to life as a retiree and rebuild his social networks, reducing his dependency on his wife.
The transformation was gradual but profound. Myles found the online sessions via Microsoft Teams to be a revelation. “I started looking forward to my sessions,” he says, reflecting on the process that led him to reconnect with old friends and embrace a more social lifestyle. The therapy also set the stage for Myles to seek additional help for his excessive drinking.
This success story highlights the effectiveness of interpersonal psychotherapy and the broader impact of the Talking Therapies service in Cornwall. The service offers free, confidential therapy for individuals over 16 years old, dealing with common mental health issues like stress, anxiety, and the emotional challenges of long-term physical health conditions.
The service’s approach aligns with the recommendations of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, ensuring that each patient receives the most suitable treatment, tailored to their specific needs. Myles’ experience is a testament to the transformative power of interpersonal psychotherapy, offering hope and a new lease on life for many who struggle in silence.
