In any one year around 1 million adults have depression, and over two million have anxiety.

These figures highlight it is becoming increasingly relevant to learn how to take care of our mental health.

The Nedley Depression and Anxiety Recovery Program will return to Bowral in April to help to meet this growing need.

Neil Nedley MD developed the program from 15 years of research and clinical experience.

Dr Nedley summarises the causes of depression under ten ‘hit categories’, and says that while “every case is as different as each individual, determining your causes can be as simple as taking the depression questionnaire”.

Program participants have the opportunity to identify their specific ‘hits’ and learn how to address them.

Evidence-based strategies for reducing anxiety and depression and increasing emotional intelligence are taught as part of the program.

Evidence indicates that often just a few changes can help people break free from the trap of depression and anxiety.

Bowral and Goulburn Seventh-day Adventist Churches Pastor Owen Ellis said he had seen first-hand how the program could benefit people.

“It has been so good to see participants experience significant reductions in their depression and anxiety levels.  Many had no measurable depression by the end of the eight weeks,” he said. 

“The wholistic nature of the program also produces benefits for physical health leading to increased feelings of wellbeing.  Some participants have even enjoyed the positive side effect of weight loss.  All this adds up to feeling better in and of yourself.”

Almost 90 per cent of participants in last year’s Bowral program experienced significant reductions in their stress and anxiety levels.

At the conclusion of the program one participant said “this program is exactly what I needed. Wish I had done it years ago. I am now more happy and less anxious, and my depression has reduced.”

Another person said, “I am now armed with knowledge to help my illness. I now have the tools/steps in my power to improve my life, and therefore the lives of ones closest to me.”

Along with the informative presentations by Dr Nedley, and group support, participants enjoy food samples and receive recipes for creating tasty dishes that can help improve brain function.

A free Information Session will be held in the Bowral Seventh-day Adventist Church Community Hall on Monday, April 30 at 7pm.

Places can be reserved by calling 0481 210 121.