University of Queensland researchers are offering Australians in rural areas treatment to get off the “depression roundabout”.
Forty volunteers are needed from regional areas by the end of July. They will be part of a national research project that could result in a new and convenient treatment for depression.
Chief investigator Professor David Kavanagh said the project called “On Track” is delivered by mail, which is ideal for people in regional areas.
“The great thing about this program is that it is free and uses a series of letters. This means that people can get some help, no matter where they live,” Professor Kavanagh said.
“We are particularly keen to tell people in rural and regional areas about this program. We know that it is often hard for them to get enough help for this problem. It may feel odd for them to ask for help if they are not actually depressed right now, but it is really important that they do something about it, before the depression comes back.
“We know that over half the people who suffer from depression will have another episode in the next five years. It is like a roundabout that they feel they can’t get off. Over time, they are also more likely to get physical illnesses, or use alcohol or other drugs,” he said.
“This particular program is not for people who are depressed right now, but for people who have been depressed at least three times in the past and want to get their life on track and stay well.
“The series of letters that our participants receive will let them know when depression may happen in the future and help them to pick up early signs.
“The letters also get people to consider how they can look after their physical health. Each letter gives ideas to try out and shows them how they are going. There is also a toll free number people can use to talk to someone about how they are going.”
Professor Kavanagh said letters had been used successfully to help people control alcohol problems. It was an ideal way of talking to people with problems like depression and alcohol use, as there was “something personal” about getting a letter. The letters can also be sent by email, if this is preferred.
“On Track”, which needs to recruit 150 volunteers nationally, will be evaluated by researchers from the two Australian universities involved in the study – The University of Queensland and the University of Wollongong. The research is supported by the Australian Rotary Health Research Fund and Queensland Health.
To find out more about the “On Track” program and how to get off the “depression roundabout”, call 1300 300 164. Information and help for depression can be found at www.beyondblue.org.au, which also lists other Australian websites.
Media: Professor Kavanagh on 0419 479 227 or leave a message on 1300 300 164.
