WSCCSAC - Wolverhampton Sickle Cell Care and Social Activity Centre

Talking Therapies

Cognitive Behavioural Practices or ‘Talking Therapies’ emphasise that how people behave or react emotionally to events is largely determined by their views (beliefs, attitudes & expectations) of them rather than the events themselves.  Talking Therapies offer a solution to the emotional stresses and strains of Sickle Cell Syndromes, providing opprtunities to:

  • Examine and test personal views, in particular negatively biased thoughts and assumptions which limit the individual.
  • Understand and use the appropriate distinctions from CBT*, NLP* & BSFT* to identify the optimum type(s) of intervention to choose in a given context and situation.
  • Recognise negative/limiting thinking and work with a practitioner to help change them to more positive/useful ones.
  • Use structured, short term strategies; based on scientific principles which research has shown to be effective.
  • Understand how to develop and maintain an effective, safe and empowering mind-style.
  • Be aware of the various risks and limitations involved with talking therapies.
  • Understand the need to work with qualified practitioners who adhere to professional standards/criteria, have regular supervision, have a growing evidence base and access continuing development.

 

According to Dr Veronica (Nicky) Thomas when the cognitive behavioural approach is employed there appears to be an immediately effective in the management of sickle cell disease pain in terms of reducing psychological distress and pain coping improvement.

The Guy's and St. Thomas' Hospital Trust have done research which demonstrates that when the cognitive behavioural approach is employed, data obtained at 6 months post interventions show that the gains achieved are still significantly better, but after that time period tend to relapse. Hence it is suggested that the cognitive behavioural approach is employed on a six monthly basis.

The Full Research Article Can be Found In:
Thomas, V.J. Dixon, A.L. Milligan, P. (1999), Cognitive-behaviour therapy for the management of sickle cell disease pain: An evaluation of a community-based intervention. British Journal of Health Psychology, 4, 209-229

Cognitive Behavioural Approach includes aiding the sufferer in:-

  1. The recognition of symptoms that define the approach of a Sickle Cell Crisis

  2. Controlling and understanding what triggers a crisis

  3. Self control

  4. The power of thoughts and feelings

    • Fear

    • Anxiety

    • Frustration

    • Ambivalence

  5. Coping Strategies

    • Passive

    • Active

    • Religious / Faith

    • Humour

  6. Employment

  7. Finance

  8. Housing

  9. Home Help and Support

The complete manual for adults and children may be obtained from the Sickle Cell Society.