Laurence Mynors-Wallis
Problem-Solving Treatment for Anxiety and Depression: A Practical Guide
Oxford University Press
2005 PB, 208 pp, £24.95, 0 19 852842 6
This is the idiots' guide to problem-solving. A short and sweet book in an easy-to-understand format, clearly structured with good little summary boxes dotted throughout. The book begins by examining the reliability of the latest evidence for problem-solving in common mental health disorders for adult and old age groups. Much of the evidence comes from primary care settings.
The technique is then explained in greater detail with step-by-step advice and suggested phrasing. It relies on no prior knowledge apart from basic communication skills. It is a really practical, ‘hands-on’ guide to be used by nurses, GPs or psychiatrists. Template information leaflets and worksheet examples are given. Common scenarios and illustrated case studies of common pitfalls and how to climb out of them, leave you feeling prepared. Ultimately, it even shows you how to teach problem solving in small groups and provides an appendix of sample slides for this.
The only downside is that it is designed for up to six, half-hour sessions. Therefore, it may be more applicable for the practice nurse to employ problem solving as a formal service. This could be done working in conjunction with the local counsellor. However, even in a rushed 10-minute session, you will still be equipped with positive and dynamic skills from this book to deal with those ‘heart sink’ patients.
- © British Journal of General Practice, 2006.
