Understanding Depression

Brochure Description.
15% of people will have a bout of severe depression at some point in their lives with women being twice as likely to suffer from depression as men - although men are far more likely to commit suicide. Depression in old age is a major problem and frequently accompanies loneliness.
If you are caring for someone with depression, you know how demanding it can be. If you have low mood or depression yourself, it may seem that nothing can be done to make you feel better.

This course is aimed at people who want to know more about depression and the effect it can have on their own life or the lives of people they care for. It will also be appropriate for those who provide
support in a voluntary or professional capacity

What will the course cover and how will it be taught?
The course will begin by agreeing what participants would like to cover - to reflect their particular interests and issues.
You will be able to:
1. Recognise what depression is and how it affects people;
2. Understand the vicious circle which makes depression the common cold of mental health;
3. Identify ways of coping with the thoughts and feelings which depression produces;
4. Understand how to help yourself and what further help is available.
There will also be an opportunity to take a Skills Check in Maths and English if required
The course will be a small and informal series of workshops with participant discussions, games and formal presentations
An initial assessment of learning needs will be done in the form of a quiz - with an end of course review taking similar format. Course members will keep a record of key issues they have explored and discuss their learning on a weekly basis.

Are there specific requirements for joining?
This course does not have any particular requirements for numeracy or literacy skills.
Participants should feel reasonably comfortable discussing their ideas and thoughts with other group members.