Published: December 29, 2008 11:08 am      

Depression seminar begins next Monday

Approximately 14.8 million American adults, or about 6.7 percent of the U.S. population age 18 and older suffer from major depressive disorders, according to the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance.

Paula Reiter, a depression recovery program director, spoke Sunday in the State Theater during a free introduction session about a seminar targeted to individuals dealing with depression.

Created by Dr. Neil Nedley, M.D. the Depression Recovery Program is an eight-week seminar targeted at combating the causes of depression.

In his studies, Dr. Nedley found there are over 100 different causes of depression, most of which fall into 10 categories.

Those 10 categories include: genetic, developmental, lifestyle, circadian rhythm (body cycle), addiction, nutrition, toxic, social/complicated stress or grief, medical condition and frontal lobe.

People suffering from depression usually find that four of these categories apply to them, said Reiter.

The seminar which begins Monday, Jan. 5 in the State Theater, 200 E. California Street, will help inform participants about each “hit” or category and what changes they can make in their lifestyle to combat depression.

In an introductory video viewed during the session, Dr. Nedley said he has seen a 90 percent success rate from those who have participated in the program.

The program, however, is not solely for those dealing with depression, added Reiter. It can also be beneficiary for those dealing with stress or anxiety, parents wanting to increase their children’s IQ, people who are dealing with loss and those who are interested in how to deal with all of these issues before they occur in their own lives.

Each week participants will meet to discuss different topics outlined in Dr. Nedley’s book, “Depression’s Hidden Dangers,” watch video clips and meet in small groups with a facilitator to discuss activities from a workbook to be given during the first night.

On the first night, participants will also measure their Emotion Quotient (EQ) by completing an assessment test which will determine what “hits” or categories they should focus on during the seminar.

At the end of the seminar, there will be a graduation banquet where participants will be able to share their progress, if they choose.

The cost for the program is $60 which includes all materials. If you would like to sign-up for the program, please contact Reiter at 668-8687 or e-mail paula_reiter@yahoo.com.

Another free, introduction session will be held tonight at 7 p.m. in the Sacred Heart Community Center, 730 N. Main Street, Muenster.