Having the session structure, group guidelines and safety planning prompts in one place helps participants know what to expect and what to do if their mood worsens between meetings. The booklet is designed for a 12-session Cognitive Behavioural Therapy course for depression, with the opening section introducing the course format, session agenda and the purpose of using CBT to understand low mood.
The early pages cover the first session, titled “Introduction to Course and Understanding Depression”. Visible content includes a session agenda with introductions, group guidelines, keeping safe between sessions, hopes and concerns, a break, and later teaching on depression, CBT and the “5 areas” model. It also explains that the course runs weekly for 12 sessions, with each session lasting up to two hours including a coffee break.
A particularly practical part of the workbook is the guidance on group expectations and online participation. It includes points about keeping cameras on, checking names and email visibility, putting phones on silent, listening to others, respecting different viewpoints, maintaining confidentiality and letting the service know if a session cannot be attended. These details make it useful for adults joining an online CBT group for depression, as well as facilitators preparing participants for group therapy or psychoeducation sessions.
The safety planning content is specific and easy to use. It explains that Steps to Wellbeing is not a crisis service, lists urgent support options for Dorset and Southampton, and encourages people to note useful telephone numbers. A personal safety plan section prompts users to identify signs that their mood is deteriorating, steps they can take to manage this, where to get professional support, and where to find social support from friends, family or colleagues.
Most suited to adults experiencing depression or persistent low mood who are attending a guided CBT course, the workbook may also be helpful for mental health practitioners, psychological wellbeing practitioners and group facilitators who want a clear course booklet with practical prompts. The booklet is branded by Steps to Wellbeing Southampton & Dorset and Dorset HealthCare University NHS Foundation Trust.
