NHS Psychological Therapies 2010 include Dental Phobia
The UK Department of Health recently published a press release titled, “Psychological therapies offered across the NHS”, as a response to Health Secretary Andrew Lansley’s announcement on 23 June 2010 that psychological therapies will continue to be rolled out across the NHS.
The UK government has pledged £70 million for 2010 to provide existing and new psychological therapies to treat mental health conditions and anxiety disorders. These therapies may be used as an alternative to medication, or be used with medication to optimise treatment. This funding pledge is part of the 2010/2011 investment commitment total of £173 million to address mental health services.
Andrew Lansley reported that services will cover wider geographical areas and more types of therapies will be available for choice to support those people in need. Paul Burstow, Care Services Manager, added that approximately 3,600 therapists would be trained with fully-functioning services all over the UK by 2011.
These psychological therapies will also be available to dental patients suffering from dental anxiety and phobias (also referred to as dentophobia). Approximately 13 percent of the population are affected by dental phobia, and impacts women more than men. Dental practices will be able to refer patients for therapy to address their fears about dentists, dental processes and treatments.
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