Clinic to treat common psychological problems

The University of Queensland Psychology Clinic is starting the first of several treatment groups for common psychological problems.

The first of these groups, commencing in late June, will provide a powerful treatment for people with depression - without the need for medication.

Cognitive-Behaviour Therapy (CBT) has been repeatedly demonstrated to be an effective treatment for depression - in most cases equally effective to medication.

"Depression is known as one of the most common psychological problems, with as many as 25 percent of people experiencing clinically significant depression at some stage during their lifetime," clinical psychologist Mark Boschen said.

People with depression commonly report sad or irritable mood, difficulty sleeping, poor appetite, loss of pleasure, withdrawal from friends and family, and pervasive feelings of hopelessness.

Cognitive-Behaviour therapy focuses on teaching people skills that they can use to help deal with their depression.

"It is this skill-teaching focus that separates CBT from other styles of therapy where the patient takes a much more passive role."

"By training people in skills they can use, they are able to take control of their lives again, and to better deal with the symptoms of depression."

One aim of the group CBT for Depression program at The University of Queensland is to enable a wider cross-section of the community to access cognitive-behavioural treatments.

"Often people find the expense of seeing a psychologist prohibitive, so by running group programs we hope to reduce costs and enable a wider range of people to access a very effective treatment for depression."

For further information, please contact Mark Boschen, Clinical Psychologist at The University of Queensland Psychology Clinic on 3365-6451.

Enquiries can also be directed to communications@mailbox.uq.edu.au