Depression Community from HealthIndex UK

Depression
Review recent press releases from Depression Alliance: New booklet launched on self-help and treatment for depression - June 1999 Self-help - June 1999 The combined approach to depression - June 1999 Your brain and the doctor - June 1999 New booklet launched on self-help and treatment for depression A comprehensive new cartoon-illustrated booklet, ĎAbout Depression Allianceí, provides a clear, readable guide to help people through the misery of depression. The cover features a person suffering from the typical lack of self-esteem felt by the depressed - "Iím stupid...Iím hopeless...Iím pathetic..." - but the back cover shows the same individual realising that "Iím nice to others...I care about things...Iím OK!" It is this transformation which Depression Alliance hopes will be achieved by those who read and act on the suggestions made in the booklet. The first section summarises what is known about depression in general and the different types of depression - severe depression, manic depression, post-natal depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Self-help There are a number of ways of tackling depression, including antidepressant treatment, different types of talking therapies and self-help. The core of Depression Alliance is its national network of self-help groups in which people receive encouragement, reassurance, support and a listening ear. Although groups do not offer therapy, many people find that simply being part of a group can be therapeutic. Depression is a family affair, affecting not only sufferers, but those close to them. Depression Alliance also runs groups for relatives and friends of people who are depressed. For those who are interested in running groups, the booklet explains how Depression Alliance groups are structured and organised. The combined approach to depression Many people have found their depression eased by a combination of approaches, which the booklet summarises. * Gathering information can help. Depression Alliance has a wide range of booklets on different aspects of depression, all of which are available for £1.00 or less. The organisation can also provide a list of books to read and other resources. * Relaxation can be effective in reducing anxiety and tension. * Exercise. Even gentle exercise usually helps people feel better and more positive. * A change in lifestyle. Some people who become depressed are perfectionists who drive themselves too hard. A change of lifestyle can put them back in command of their own lives and relieve depression. * Breaks. Holidays or short breaks can help by interrupting the routine which often leads to the feeling of being in a rut. * Diet. Under- or over-eating can be a symptom of depression. Eating fresh foods regularly provides valuable nutrients which keep the body healthy and help people to feel better. * Interests. Although it can be difficult to concentrate when depressed, people often find it helpful to occupy their mind in some way by, for example, reading, studying, watching a film or listening to music. * Things to avoid. Props such as smoking, illegal drugs and alcohol can be damaging - alcohol in particular is a depressant and, despite providing what seems like a temporary Ďliftí, can actually increase depression. Your brain and the doctor One section of the booklet explains what happens to the brain when someone is suffering from depression. Another section, written by a general practitioner who himself suffers from depression from time to time, explains the importance of a partnership between the patient and the doctor. Further sections describe what to expect from the different types of talking treatments - cognitive behaviour therapy, inter-personal therapy and problem solving therapy. Depression Alliance is the UKís leading self-help organisation for people suffering from depression and their carers. There are currently ... Depression Alliance self-help groups in the UK, and head offices in England, Scotland and Wales.. Copies of the booklet are available from Depression Alliance. Please send your name and address and a cheque for £1.00 For Press information: Please contact Jill Phillipson on Tel: 0181 341 1588, Fax: 0181 347 8694.
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Review recent press releases from Depression Alliance:

For Press information: Please contact Jill Phillipson on Tel: 0181 341 1588, Fax: 0181 347 8694.