IAPT is a new government initiative aimed at improving the availability of psychological therapies, especially relating to people with depression or anxiety disorders. It also aims to promote a more person-centred approach to therapy.

At the centre of the IAPT scheme is the treatment Cognitive and Behavioural Therapy (CBT). This treatment was developed from the idea that the way an individual feels is related to the thoughts and belief systems held, and by the individual's behaviour. Springfield Mind is part of this new gateway to Psychological therapies, and currently has the recommended CBT programme for Warwickshire available in our Wellbeing exchanges. This is known as living life to the full, the five areas approach programme.

The resources accompanying this programme can be found on the website www.livinglifetothefull.com.

The Five Areas approach aims to provide a range of educational life skills self-help resources that are accessible, practical and based on cognitive behavioural principles. They aim to provide a practical way of helping people tackle common problems such as low mood and stress. These resources include living life to the full an interactive self-help dvd, and the living life to the full 10 little books, which include titles such as; ‘why do I feel so bad’, ‘I can’t be bothered to do anything’ and how to feel happier straightaway’. .