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Classes a new tool in tackling depression
17 April 2009
Community classes in cognitive behaviour therapy will start at the end of April for people in the Manilla and Barraba areas who are experiencing depression.
But local residents wanting to participate will need to be referred by their GP.
Hunter New England Mental Health has teamed up with New England Northwest Centacare to run the classes.
The six-week course begins on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 and will be held each week at the CWA Hall in Manilla.
Clinical Co-ordinator for Peel Mental Health Services Kylie Key said one of the benefits of cognitive behaviour therapy, or CBT, is that it gives people the skills and ability to help manage their moods and stress.
“Cognitive behaviour therapy aims to show people how their thinking affects their mood and to teach them to think in a less negative way about life and themselves,” Ms Key said.
“It is based on the understanding that thinking negatively is a habit, and, like any other bad habit, it can be broken.”
The classes are for anyone with a diagnosis of mild to moderate depression that is able to maintain a level of functioning that does not significantly impede on their lifestyle.
“We would encourage anyone in the local community who has a diagnosis of depression to go along to their local GP to get a referral to the course,” Ms Key said.
“We would also encourage anyone who feels that they might be depressed to talk about their feelings and symptoms with their GP. It might be that these classes can help, or it might be that another course of action is required.
“Either way, talking to your local GP is a good place to start.”
Ms Key said the CBT classes were trialled in Gunnedah last year and were so successful that they were extended to other areas. The first community CBT course for Manilla and Barraba residents was held at the end of last year and more classes will be offered during the year if there is enough interest.
For more details about the upcoming course contact Sharon at Centacare on 6762 1783. Please contact your local GP to book your place.
Contact: Frances Holz
Phone: 4939 2216
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