The Depression Recovery Program is based on presentations by renowned therapist Dr Neil Nedley, with each session comprised of a one hour video presentation followed by a group discussion for those who would like to participate. The workshops are free with course materials available at an additional cost.

The program will be held over eight weeks with a choice of morning or evening sessions at the Glen Innes Seventh-day Adventist Hall. While this is the first time the program has been offered in Glen Innes, Seventh-day Adventist Church pastor Adam Cinzio said he had run it three times before at his previous location on the coast, with considerable success. 

“There’s more ‘noise’ on the coast, but depression is everywhere although it’s exhibited in different ways,” Pastor Cinzio said.

“Men tend to dry up and die silently, whereas women tend to express it more. But you don’t have to be clinically depressed to benefit from the program. It can improve your thinking, and make you aware of different perceptions of what’s happening around you, and cognitive distortions.”

People who would benefit from the program include those who already know they are feeling low and depressed and those diagnosed with depression, as well as those are recently divorced, who have lost a loved one, lost a job or have any other triggering experience.”

Dr Nedley lists 10 possible ‘hit’ categories: genetic, developmental, nutrition, social, toxic, circadian rhythm, addiction, lifestyle, medical condition and frontal lobe injury. His theory is that up to three hits are bearable, but a fourth could send a person into depression.

Free orientation sessions to determine if the program is appropriate for individuals are running at 10am tomorrow and 6.30pm Sunday at the Community Centre, at 6.30pm on Monday at the Glen Innes Primary School and at 6.30pm next Sunday (May 19) at the Seventh-day Adventist Hall.

Program topics include identifying depression and its causes, improving emotional intelligence, enhancing energy levels and mood, overcoming depression through positive lifestyle choices, eating for optimal brain function, managing stress, and achieving peak mental performance.

Pastor Cinzio stressed that mental health education programs don’t replace the doctor/patient relationship, but some patients can  eventually cease antidepressants in consultation with their doctor. 

“It’s about making positive choices about your own future; empowering people,” he said.

For further information contact Adam Cinzio on 0414 909 630, or just turn up at one of the orientation sessions. The program is budgeted to cost the church $1500, funded by donations from the congregation.