Christmas and the holiday season are traditionally times for celebrating with family and friends. However, for many people the festive season is a time of isolation, negative thoughts and increased feelings of stress, anxiety and depression. There are several reasons why this period can increase the risk of depression for some people. Many build up to this time of year with great expectations, only to find disappointment if hopes are not fulfilled. People who are socially isolated, or who have lost a loved one through death or a relationship ending can experience heightened feelings of loneliness or grief.
Read the news release [PDF, 37KB]
See our full selection of eCards
We are seeking participants for an online survey about experiences of psychological therapy. Psychological therapy is a non-drug treatment where consumers participate in discussions with a counsellor, psychologist or other mental health practitioner. We would like to know about your experiences of psychological therapy. We are interested in the benefits as well as any potential adverse consequences, from a consumer’s point-of -view. Research has generally focused on the side-effects of medication, but little is known about potentially negative aspects of psychological therapy. While it is well known that psychological therapy can be beneficial for many types of disorders, it is important for consumers and health practitioners to know what is helpful and what may be harmful. By identifying the positives and negatives, we can develop ways of identifying, monitoring, and addressing aspects of psychological treatment that may have adverse effects.
CLICK HERE TO DO THE SURVEY
Read the news release [PDF, 26KB]
The Black Dog Institute is seeking help from workers and employers to establish a Jobholder’s Toolkit of effective strategies to tackle mood disorders in the workforce. Executive Director, Professor Gordon Parker, said the Institute was looking for ‘people strategies’. “What we want is for workers to describe what either worked or did not work for them,” he said. “Further, we wish to hear from managers and co-workers about what they have found helpful when confronted with the issue.” The Institute is asking for people to tell their stories in a writing competition with the theme Tackling Mood Disorders in the Workplace. Entries close on 31 January, 2009.
Read the news release [PDF, 25KB]
The Channel 9 60 Minutes television show recently featured Australian surfers riding giant waves near Tasmania. One of the surfers was former world champion, Tom Carroll. He and many other surfers joined league legend, Andrew Johns, on his walk from Newcastle to Sydney to raise awareness and support for the Black Dog Institute. Pictured is Tom Carroll next to the Black Dog Institute Bus at Newport Beach during the final stages of the nib Andrew Johns Walk that finished a day later at the Sydney Opera House.
See the 2008 Bush Bash album which includes photos from the nib Andrew Johns Charity Walk
The practice of Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is political, highly controversial and the most powerful treatment for people suffering severe mood disorders, according to internationally renowned researcher, Professor Harold Sackeim. He was delivering the fourth Black Dog International Lecture on the subject of Key Issues in the Practice of ECT. He is Professor at the Department of Psychiatry and Radiology, College of Physicians and Surgeons at Columbia University in the United States and is regarded as the leading international expert on ECT.
Professor Harry Sackeim (on the right) is pictured above with Professor Gordon Parker.
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Read the Sydney Morning Herald article
It has long been thought that depression increases the risk of dying in the year following a heart attack. However, a Black Dog Institute study indicates the risk is associated with depression coming on after the heart attack.
The study, entitled Timing is Everything: The onset of Depression and Acute Coronary Syndrome Outcome, involved nearly 500 patients suffering heart conditions. The study appears in the American journal, Biological Psychiatry.
Leading the study was Professor Gordon Parker, Executive Director of the Black Dog Institute, who said the way in which depression and heart disease are linked was still poorly understood.
Read the news release [PDF, 26KB]
Let’s talk about depression was the message from the Black Dog Institute and the people of Tamworth responded in a positive way to the range of activities conducted by one of Australia’s leading authorities on mood disorders during their visit from 5 to 9 November. Importantly, the Institute was able to partner with the North West Slopes Division of General Practice to establish a MAP Centre in Tamworth which is a world first computer program that assists in the assessment and diagnosis of conditions such as depression and bipolar disorder.
Pictured on the right are presenters from the Happiness and Wellbeing community forum that took place at the Town Hall on the Friday night. It was interesting to see the different points of view on what steps people take in their lives to achieve happiness.
Read the news release [PDF, 21KB]
See the 2008 Bush Bash album which includes photos from Tamworth
Happiness and Wellbeing is something that we all strive for in our lives. But how do you measure this pursuit to achieve happiness? The term happiness captures a huge variety of positive emotional responses, including such things as cheerfulness, serenity, optimism and joy.How we achieve happiness was the topic examined by Professor Gordon Parker, Executive Director of the Black Dog Institute and prominent Tamworth identities during a Town Hall public forum that was held on on Friday 7th November. Pictured right is 'Larry' our happiness icon.
Read the news release [PDF, 32KB]
See our fact sheet 'Happiness'
See the 2008 Bush Bash album which includes photos from Tamworth
Tamworth now has access to a world first program that assists in the assessment and diagnosis of conditions such as depression and bipolar disorder.
The Mood Assessment Program (or MAP) is the brainchild of the Black Dog Institute. “The MAP is a computerised assessment and diagnostic program incorporating nearly a quarter of a century of sophisticated clinical expertise in the assessment, diagnosis and management planning for people suffering depression and bipolar disorder,” said Professor Gordon Parker, Executive Director of the Black Dog Institute.
Pictured right: Deborah Pryor, Professor Parker & Graeme Kershaw cutting the ribbon at the official launch of the Tamworth MAP Centre.
Read the news release [PDF, 93KB]
See the 2008 Bush Bash album which includes photos from Tamworth
“Let’s talk about depression” is the message from the Black Dog Institute, one of the country’s leading authorities on mood disorders, when they begin their visit to Tamworth, starting on Wednesday 5 November. The Institute has issued an open invitation to the community to attend the different events planned over five days (5-9 November). The Black Dog Institute bus will be parked in Kable Street, Tamworth until noon on Sunday. It contains a range of information and resources to support locals to understand depression and mood disorders.
Read the News Release [PDF, 24KB]
See the 2008 Bush Bash album which includes photos from Tamworth
On 18 November this year, the Black Dog Institute International Lecture, will be delivered by Professor Harold A. Sackeim, internationally renowned ECT (electroconvulsive therapy) researcher. Professor Sackeim served as Chief of the Department of Biological Psychiatry at the New York State Psychiatric Institute for 25 years. He is currently Professor of Clinical Psychology in Psychiatry and Radiology, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University and Professor in the Department of Psychiatry, Weill Medical College of Cornell University. His talk is aimed at enhancing the understanding of current ECT research and practice. The Black Dog International Lecture continues to attract leaders in the mood disorders field and Dr Sackeim's paper this year is set to continue this trend.
Read Professor Sackeim's biography [PDF, 12KB]
As part of its Bush Bash campaign, the Black Dog Institute held a Gala Dinner at the Westin Hotel in Sydney on Friday 24 October. Nearly 400 guests attended including league legend, Andrew Johns and his wife Catherine. Earlier in the day, Andrew had completed a six day walking and sports trek from Newcastle to Sydney to raise awareness about bipolar disorder and support for the Institute. Executive Director, Professor Gordon Parker, author and bush poet Murray Hartin, popular singer Amy Pearson kept guests entertained. Another highlight was an inspirational address by author, Matthew Johnstone and a video interview of Albert Hunt, one of the Institute's key supporters. The auctioning of different items including sports memorabilia, holidays and a sculpture helped raise fund for the Institute. Pictured are some of our guests enjoying the evening.
Soon after 4.00pm on Friday 24 October, league legend, Andrew Johns, finished his six-day walk from Newcastle to Sydney to raise awareness about bipolar disorder and support for the Black Dog Institute. Andrew, joined by about 50 other walkers, was greeted at the finish under the Sydney Harbour bridge by Deputy Prime Minister, Julia Gillard and scores of supporters. Earlier in the day, Johns was up early for a swim at Manly with Olympian John Konrads before walking to North Sydney Oval for a game a cricket, followed by the walk across the Harbour bridge to the city. Testing his stamina even further, Johns was guest of honour at a Black Dock Institute gala dinner for supporters that evening at the Westin Hotel.
See the 2008 Bush Bash album which includes photos from the nib Andrew Johns Charity Walk
Friday was the final day for the Andrew Johns Walk (Newcastle to Sydney) - a journey that ended when he walked across the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Andrew was greeted by many supporters (near the Park Hyatt Hotel) as he took those last final steps of an amazing six-day trek that has also included not just walking but a full gambit of sporting activities with well-known personalities. He set out from Newcastle on Sunday 19th October and for the first five kilometres he had Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, join him on the walk. Andrew was walking to help the Black Dog Institute raise awareness and funds for bipolar disorder. On Friday morning, Andrew joined Black Dog Institute board member & Olympian John Konrads, for some swim training near Manly wharf and later played in a cricket match at North Sydney Oval. John & Andrew are pictured on the right.
See the 2008 Bush Bash album which includes photos from the nib Andrew Johns Charity Walk
After four days of walking, kayaking and golfing his way down the coast from Newcastle, rugby league legend Andrew "Joey" Johns, is making his way along Sydney's northern beaches on Thursday 23 October, the second last day of his epic quest to help the Black Dog Institute raise awareness and funds for bipolar disorder which affects 600,000 Australians. "Joey"started the day surfing with board riders Matt Hoy (also walking all the way from Newcastle to Sydney), former world champion Tom Carroll, former pro-surfer Richie Lovett and surfing commentator Mitchell Ross. Fans enjoyed a BBQ breakfast while watching the surfing. Later in the day "Joey" continued his walk to Manly to spend the night.
See the 2008 Bush Bash album which includes photos from the nib Andrew Johns Charity Walk
A football coaching clinic at Gosford East Public School, a walk in the rain, and a ferry trip from the the Central Coast to Palm Beach were highlights as stormy weather lashed the coastline on day four of the Andrew "Joey" Johns walk between Newcastle and Sydney to raise awareness and donations for bipolar disorder. The bad weather didn't dampen the league legend's enthusiasm and tomorrow is another full day of activities that takes "Joey" from Newport on Sydney's northern beaches to Manly and in sight of the finishing line at Circular Quay. Support for "Joey" on his walk has been fantastic and ranges from schoolchildren giving a gold coin to corporate supports pledging larger donations.
Pictured is Andrew Johns with students from Gosford East Public School.
See the 2008 Bush Bash album which includes photos from the nib Andrew Johns Charity Walk
Andrew Johns has donated the custom-made boots he wore in his final rugby league game to raise money and public awareness for the Black Dog Institute. Andrew wore the blue and white Nike “Air Zoom” boots featuring his No. 7 playing number when he captained the Newcastle Knights against the Canberra Raiders at Canberra Stadium on April 2, 2007 – the great halfback’s final appearance on the football field. Personally signed by Andrew, the boots are being auctioned in conjunction with a six day walk and sport-a-thon he is undertaking from Newcastle to Sydney this week to draw attention to how bipolar sufferers can get help. Auction bids can be made by visiting www.lgm.com.au and clicking on ‘auction’. The electronic auction will close at 12 noon AEST this Friday, October 24. Final bids will be accepted at the Black Dog Institute Gala Dinner that evening. On day 3, "Joey' played 18-holes of golf with corporate supporters and Nikki Garrett, one of Australia's young guns on the USPGA tour at Magenta Shores on the Central Coast. He followed that with a 14 kilometre walk between Blue Bay and Terrigal.
Photo: Andrew Johns pictured with Nikki Garrett on one of the greens at Magenta Shores.
See the 2008 Bush Bash album which includes photos from the nib Andrew Johns Charity Walk
After walking 28 kilometres on the first day, league legend Andrew Johns teamed up with Trans-Tasman Kayakers James Castrission and Justin Jones on Lake Munmorah as part of his walk-and-sport activities between Newcastle and Sydney. Andrew is undertaking a six-day quest to help the Black Dog Institute raise awareness and funds for bipolar disorder, which affects over 600,000 people nationwide. On Sunday, Andrew was joined by Prime Minister Kevin Rudd as the walk started from Newcastle Town Hall. Day Three (Tuesday 21 October), Andrew will be golfing with corporate supporters and Nikki Garrett, one of Australia's young guns on the USPGA tour. (Pictured is Andrew with James and Justin in their kayaks).
Watch the NBN news report featuring Prime Minister Kevin Rudd pledging $2 million to the Institute
See the 2008 Bush Bash album which includes photos from the nib Andrew Johns Charity Walk
A $2 million grant from the Federal Government and $100,000 from the nib Foundation were announced at the start of the Andrew Johns Walk from Newcastle to Sydney. The aim of the week-long walk is to raise funds for the Black Dog Institute and awareness of bipolar disorder. " 'Joey' Johns is trying to break the silence and so am I," said Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, as he joined the start of the walk.
Andrew Johns, who suffers from bipolar disorder, said that when he first went to see the Institute, they helped him come up with a stay well plan, which helped keep him on a more even plateau, so that he was not high or low. "The way they went about their work with such professionalism and kindess, I just couldn't thank them enough," he said.
Pictured on the first day of the walk on the steps of Newcastle Town Hall are Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and Andrew Johns (centre) and on Andrew's left in white shirts are the Chairman of the Black Dog Institute Peter Joseph and Executive Director, Professor Gordon Parker. See a larger version of the picture [PDF,156KB]
Watch the NBN news report featuring Prime Minister Kevin Rudd pledging $2 million to the Institute
Read the nib news release [PDF, 37KB]
See the 2008 Bush Bash album which includes photos from the nib Andrew Johns Charity Walk
Rugby league legend Andrew Johns will walk and play sport from Newcastle to Sydney over six days from 19 to 24 October to raise funds for and awareness of bipolar disorder, from which he suffers. Johns will be joined for parts of the nib Andrew Johns Walk by the Prime Minister, Mr Kevin Rudd, other sporting personalities and the general public, who can get involved by visiting the website to donate, register to walk with Johns, or bid for the boots he wore in his final match. During the event, Johns will also kayak, play golf, beach volleyball and cricket, and swim and surf with leading sportspeople to raise funds for the Black Dog Institute, which has supported Johns during his treatment for bipolar disorder.
Watch the ad
See the 2008 Bush Bash album which includes photos from the nib Andrew Johns Charity Walk
Tackling Mood Disorders in the Workplace is the theme of the latest Black Dog Institute Writing Competition. According to Professor Gordon Parker, Executive Director of the Black Dog Institute, the workplace can be either supportive or unfriendly for someone with a mood disorder and there can be a wide divide between how workmates and bosses react to the situation. “When someone has a mood disorder – depression or bipolar disorder – their capacity to work is often seriously diminished” stated Professor Parker. “They may or may not be aware of its impact on their work but they are usually extremely sensitive to how their fellow workers and managers interact with them.” This writing competition is an opportunity to take the next step in learning more about how people with a mood disorder, co-workers and bosses cope – positively or poorly – in dealing with the many immediate problems and potential concerns in the workplace.
Read the news release [PDF, 26KB]
Go to our Writing Competition page
Tulip Time this year partnered with the Black Dog Institute to raise awareness about mental illness and depression. Tulip Time has become Australia’s oldest and most beautiful flora festival. Now in its 47th year, Tulip Time showcased a spectacular display of over 100,000 tulips and 25,000 annuals in Corbett Gardens, Bowral and some of the best private gardens in Australia. Former, Southern Highlands resident and media personality Maggie Tabberer was this year’s Tulip Time Ambassador, aiding the festival promotion both domestically and internationally. Black Dog Institute board member and Olympian swimmer, John Konrads spoke in Corbett Gardens about his experiences of living with a mental illness.
Read more [PDF, 32KB]
See the 2008 Bush Bash album which includes photos from the Bowral Tulip Time Festival
This year, Deniliquin is on the world map – twice. Deni, home of the Deni Ute Muster got a prezzie on its 10th birthday. It won the official World Record Ute Count, throbbing in at 7,242 utes. And another award made it across the line. Deni now holds the Official World Record Blue Singlet Count, with 2,702 people donning ‘blueys’. Musicians Lee Kernaghan, Kasey Chambers and The Living End gathered the boys from the bush and livened up the night-time celebrations for what was a fantastic weekend for more than 20,000 people. Black Dog Institute staff were a part of the lively festivities, with Professor Gordon Parker addressing the crowd gathered in the RM Williams Bull Ride Arena.
Read the full news release [PDF, 24KB]
Read a SMH article about the Ute Muster
Watch a video message from Lee Kernaghan [WMV]
See the 2008 Bush Bash album which includes photos from the Deni Ute Muster
The Black Dog Institute is conducting an innovative new study on exercise, mood and depression, linked to the Blackmores Sydney Running Festival. Over 25 000 people took part in the Festival on Sunday 21st September this year, raising over one million dollars for charities including the Black Dog Institute.
This year, for the first time ever, the Festival was also an integral part of a significant research project investigating the benefits of exercise. The first stage of the ‘Exercise and Mood Study’ involved surveying entrants on the day of the Blackmores Sydney Running Festival, just before and after their running events. Over 500 entrants were surveyed by Black Dog Institute researchers (assisted by trained volunteers) as part of the ‘Exercise and Mood Study’. The Black Dog Institute would like to express our gratitude to the hundreds of Running Festival entrants who participated in our survey, and to our valuable team of trained volunteers who assisted with the study.
Read the news release [PDF, 24KB]
Read our fact sheet 'Exercise and depression'
The latest book from Graeme Cowan includes research and advice obtained from hundreds of interviews with people living with depression and their caregivers. The book offers a path forward and shows carers where to find information and support. Lucy Brogden, a Director of the Sydney Community Foundation and wife of John Brogden, CEO of Manchester Unity and former leader of the NSW Opposition, launched the book today at the Black Dog Institute at Randwick. Graeme Cowan is currently leader of GROW (a mental health support group), in Chatswood and has seen things from both perspectives - that of the person living with depression and that of the carer and is convinced that both parties have to work closely in partnership to beat the Black Dog.
Read the news release [PDF, 23KB]
FREE Depression Carer Research and Resource Report
Between March and August 2008, many visitors to the Black Dog website participated in this research for the book BACK FROM THE BRINK TOO. The findings have been compiled into a report which also contains a comprehensive listing of helplines, organisations, websites, support groups, and books for carers. It can be downloaded for free from www.IamBackFromTheBrink.com
Rugby league legend Andrew Johns today announced he will walk and play sport from Newcastle to Sydney over six days from 19 to 24 October to raise funds for and awareness of bipolar disorder, from which he suffers. Johns will be joined for parts of the nib Andrew Johns Walk by the Prime Minister, Mr Kevin Rudd, other sporting personalities and the general public, who can get involved by visiting the website to donate, register to walk with Johns, or bid for the boots he wore in his final match. During the event, Johns will also kayak, play golf, beach volleyball and cricket, and swim and surf with leading sportspeople to raise funds for the Black Dog Institute, which has supported Johns during his treatment for bipolar disorder.
Pictured right: Professor Gordon Parker, Andrew Johns and nib's Managing Director Mark Fitzgibbon
Read the news release [PDF, 33KB]
Watch the ad
The Black Dog Institute, one of the country’s leading authorities on mood disorders, will launch a major initiative in Tamworth in November in a bid to step up support for rural communities. The Institute, headed by Executive Director, Professor Gordon Parker, said the activities were aimed at the entire community – schoolchildren, the public at large as well as health professionals. The Black Dog Institute program will be launched on Wednesday 5 November at the Tamworth Town Hall. A Public Forum and Panel Discussion on Happiness and Wellbeing is planned for Friday 7 November.
Read the news release [PDF, 36KB]
See the 2008 Bush Bash album which includes photos from the Institute's visit to Tamworth
The Black Dog Institute Bush Bash bus made its first public appearance at the annual Riverview/St Josephs rugby game at Riverview College on Saturday 23 August. The event was organised with the support of the Old Ignations' Union President, Steve Newnham and the Riverview Prinicipal, Shane Hogan. The "Let's talk about depression" Bush Bash commences shortly with visits to country centres such as Deniliquin, Bowral and Tamworth. The schools battled hard on the field but they combined to support the Black Dog Institute efforts to raise awareness about depression. Pictured on the right is the Bush Bash Bus in the distance and the spectators on the sidelines.
See the 2008 Bush Bash album which includes photos from the Institute's visit to Riverview College
Australia is to help developing nations adopt best practices in the treatment of mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder. The Black Dog Institute has initiated the program, between 18 and 30 August, with 14 health professionals from Sri Lanka, Papua New Guinea, Fiji and the Soloman Islands. They will undertake a two-week training program known as "Improving the Identification and Management of Mood Disorders". Director of Psychological Services at the Institute, Associate Professor Vijaya Manicavasagar (pictured right), said it was important to raise awareness amongst clinicians in developing countries about the impact of undiagnosed mood disorders on the quality of life, work and family as well as health services and the community.
More needed to be done to destigmatise community attitudes to people with mood disorders, according to NSW Treasurer, Michael Costa. The Minister spoke about his own battle with depression today when launching the latest Black Dog Institute book "Mastering Bipolar Disorder". Mr Costa described politics as a contact sport and while community attitudes often frightened senior professionals to talk about their mood disorders it didn't particularly bother him. "For others who want to come forward, these sorts of attitudes indicate to me how far we have to go," he said. Mr Costa said it was important for senior professionals to come forward as there was no reason to doubt their ability to perform at the highest level with the right support and management plans for their condition. The book launched by Mr Costa contains the personal stories of nearly 200 people on how they are dealing with bipolar disorder.
Read the news release [PDF, 42KB]
Read a transcript of Michael Costa's speech [PDF, 102KB]
See the full selection of Black Dog Institute books
The Black Dog Institute hosted a visit to its Randwick facility today of Therese Rein, wife of the Australian Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd. Ms Rein, who trained as a clinical psychologist, was taken on a tour of the facility which included a visit to The MAP Centre (Mood Assessment Program). The MAP is a computer program that has been developed by the Institute to assist health professionals in the diangosis and treatment of depression and other mood disorders. Ms Rein was impressed with the Institute's work across many spheres in dealing with mood disorders and was looking forward to seeing how these initiatives developed over the next 12 months.
Ms Therese Rein is pictured with the MAP Administrator, Louise Dyer (on left).
The personal stories of people dealing with bipolar disorder are captured in this latest book ''Mastering Bipolar Disorder" from the Black Dog Institute. Nearly 200 people share inspiring and sometimes amusing accounts of their experiences of bipolar disorder, and wise advice on the ways of managing the highs and lows, on a daily basis. The book looks at all aspects of bipolar disorder, from first symptoms and diagnosis, to times when the disorder is more or less under control. Our authors emphasise the importance of personal strategies such as exercise and support networks, alongside medication and professional assistance.
Read the news release [PDF, 42KB]
Listen to an ABC Radio interview with Gordon Parker & Kerrie Eyers
The Black Dog Institute and the University of NSW is trialling an alternative treatment for depression – known as Mild Brain Stimulation (MBS) (also known as Direct Current Stimulation). The trial is particularly suitable to patients seeking an alternative to medication or who were unable to tolerate anti-depressant drugs or ECT. Participants will receive MBS for 20 minutes three times per week over about a month. Depressed patients aged 18 and over who want to take part in the trial should phone 02 9382 3720 or email TMSandDCS@unsw.edu.au
Read the flyer [PDF, 38KB]
The efficacy of laser acupuncture as a credible treatment for depression will be investigated in a major new study launched by the Black Dog Institute and the University of New South Wales (UNSW).
Not all patients do well on current treatments for depression and in some cases people turn to acupuncture and herbal medicine as alternative treatments. Despite numerous studies suggesting acupuncture has a role in the alleviation of depression there has been little scientific evidence to determine its efficacy, compared with medications currently prescribed. The new study is designed to rigorously pursue the scientific question: Is acupuncture an effective treatment for depression, and if so, why? The study will be led by Dr Im Quah-Smith.
Read the news release [PDF, 39KB]
Mobile phones and the internet will soon be used to help up to two million Australians manage their mental health problems. The innovative approach is designed to help people track their wellbeing on a day-to-day basis in areas including mood, sleep, activities, medication, physical activity as well as drug and alcohol abuse. The target groups are adolescents and adults at risk of developing depression, anxiety or stress, as well as those with existing conditions.A $1.88 million Federal Government grant has been awarded to the Black Dog Institute and the University of New South Wales (UNSW) to undertake the program between 2008-2011.
Read the news release [PDF, 40KB]
Meditation and cognitive behaviour therapy may help those with bipolar disorder, according to researchers from the Black Dog Institute and the University of New South Wales (UNSW). They are trialling the techniques to see if they reduce relapse rates triggered by stress and anxiety for those with the condition. Over the past couple of years, the treatment has been known to be of benefit for people with depression. The trial is being supported by a $60,000 grant from Rotary. To join the program, call 02 9382 9266 or email mindfulbipolar@unsw.edu.au
Read the news release [PDF, 38KB]
No one ever sends 'get well' cards for depression, so we have created a selection of free eCards for people to send to their loved ones and friends who are battling with a mood disorder. The cards are a means for people to reach out show their support . It is summed up in one card: "I can't know your pain. All I can know is it will pass. Until then I am with you". The cards were created by John Bevins Pty Ltd while an additional two designs were provided by Matthew Johnstone, author of "I Had a Black Dog"
Are you living in rural New South Wales with personal experience of a mood disorder? Would you like to share your experience as a carer or consumer to raise awareness and destigmatise depression and bipolar disorder? We are looking for people living in one of the following areas: Ballina, Broken Hill, Condoblin, Glenn Innes, Lismore, Newcastle, Port Macquarie, Bourke, Cobar, Deniliquin, Goulburn, Moree, Orange and Wagga Wagga to represent the Black Dog Institute in their local area.
The Black Dog Institute has been acknowledged in State Parliament for creating a growing awareness of mental health issues. Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health), Paul Lynch, was speaking during question time when he said there had been a sea change in the community's views about mental illness and those who suffer from it. Earlier in the day, Mr Lynch had presented awards to the winners of the Institute's Writing and Poetry Competition.
Pictured right: (from left) Paul Lynch MP and two of the Institute's Writing and Poetry Competition winners.
Read the news release [PDF, 30KB]
Young people tell their intimate stories in a rare insight into the ‘Black Dog’ world in a writing and poetry competition that identified grassroots solutions to discover fresh ways of addressing the issue of depression in adolescence. Their stories and accounts from the older generation looking back on their lives were entries in the prestigious Black Dog Institute 2008 Writing and Poetry Competition. The writing competition is the fourth conducted by the Institute in as many years, while this is the first year the Institute has offered a prize for the best poem. Both writers and poets looked at Mood Disorders in Adolescence – Grassroots Solutions. The Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health) Paul Lynch, today presented prizes to the winners of the competition, declaring he had been deeply moved by the stories, in particular, the strength and enterprise of young people in seeking help and support.
Read the news release [PDF, 36KB] See a photo album from the ceremony.
Read the winning and highly commended writing and poetry entries
The second annual 'Happiness & Its Causes' conference took place at Darling Harbour during May. The conference was designed to provide information for people to assess the different approaches to happiness, apply the learning and make positive changes. Personal stories is a unique feature of Happiness and Its Causes and this year the Executive Director of the Black Dog Institute, Professor Gordon Parker, interviewed John Brogden, former NSW Opposition Leader and Olympian, John Konrads.
Read a summary of the interviews [PDF, 163KB]
See our fact sheet 'Happiness'
As summer grinds to a halt and the days become shorter and cooler , we may begin to notice our own dispositions changing with the seasons. As we get closer to winter, we become more susceptible to what is know as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), or winter depression. While it is not yet "time to lay down your acorns for the winter", Professor Parker, Executive Director of the Black Dog Institute, said symptoms of SAD will arrive soon and the best way to combat these natural urges to sleep, eat and sulk is to soak up as much sun as possible.
Taken from the Southern Courier article 15th April 2008.
See the full article [Flashpaper]
The Black Dog Institute continues to set new benchmarks as demonstrated in its latest Yearly Report now available online. Each year, the Institute is challenged to provide better understanding, diagnosis and treatment of mental health. In 2007, the Institute answered the challenge with strong growth across all its streams of activity - Clinical Services, Professional Education and Training, Research, and Consumer and Community Support. Our website hit rate now averages over 100,000 a month. There is also a high demand for our clinical services that assist in providing answers to those individuals (and their families) seeking sophisticated diagnosis and management of their condition. Highlighted on the front cover is the Mood Assessment Program (the MAP) which is set to revolutionise the way people suffering depression are diagnosed.
Associate Professor Michael Breakspear from the Black Dog Institute (pictured right) is part of the ''Thinking Systems Group' that is looking at creating an autonomous robotic hand that uses sensory feedback to mimic the connection between the hands and the brain. According to Associate Professor Breakspear, the project was not just about building the hand but also about discovering how the hierarchical control systems of the brain worked. Building the hand will have important ramifications for neuroscience, including understanding many brain disorders. The 'Thinking Systems Group' was founded in 2005 and comprises a multidisciplinary group of investigators.
'Living with a Black Dog' is the title of a new book by Matthew and Ainsley Johnstone - a must-have guide for the partners, family and friends and colleagues of people suffering depression. Former NSW Police Commissioner, Ken Moroney, launched the book at the Black Dog Institute and emphasised how important it was that there was a team effort in the fight against depression that involved professionals as well as the carers, such as brothers and sisters, parents and husbands and wives. Speaking at the launch, Ainsley Johnstone, said listening without judgment was one of the best things you can give a black dog sufferer. This book is released by Pan Macmillan Australia and is available in bookstores. It is full of wonderful illustations and has been described as a companion book to Matthew Johnstone's 'I Had A Black Dog'.
Visit Matthew Johnstone's website
Eve and Guy Sheppard are two of the Institute's most valued supporters. Every second year, the couple hold a fundraising dinner in memory of their son, Mark. This year, the Sheppard's fund raising dinner was held on 15th March at the Kirribilli Yacht Squadron. Guest speaker was retired General Peter Cosgrove AC, MC who has been described as Australia's best known modern general while in 2001 he was Australian of the Year. Eve and Guy visited the Institute today to present a $29,500 cheque to Executive Director, Professor Gordon Parker. Our sincere thanks to all the warm and generous people who supported this worthwhile event.
Winners of the Black Dog Institute 2008 Writing and Poetry Competition will be announced on Monday 12th May. The NSW Minister assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health) will present the prizes at an award ceremony. The judges Lydia Turner (INSIGHT volunteer), Tanya Hanstock (senior clinical psychologist) and Leon de Bord (writer and manager) have had the difficult task of selecting the winners from so many outstanding entries. Details of the winners and their essays and poems will appear on the Institute's website immediately following the presentation on 12th May.
Read more about the Writing Competition
The Iemma Government has extended its partnership with the Black Dog Institute, committing a further $1.5 million for further research into depression and mood disorders. Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health) Paul Lynch said the Iemma Government’s partnership with the Black Dog Institute was delivering results in the early intervention of mood disorders. Mr Lynch said the Black Dog’s Mood Assessment Program (MAP) – a world first – was a proven success with more than 750 patients already assessed.
Read the Government news release [PDF,84 KB]
A Black Dog Institute psychiatrist, Professor Philip Mitchell, who is also head of the University of New South Wales School of Psychiatry, has been awarded a major award from Rotary. Professor Mitchell was one of four people who received Rotary International’s Vocational Excellence Award at an event in Bathurst at the weekend. The award recognizes outstanding contributions made by individuals or teams for significant advancement in their field in Australia.
Read the news release [PDF, 28KB]
The Black Dog Institute and the University of NSW is trialling an alternative treatment for depression – known as Mild Brain Stimulation (MBS) (also known as Direct Current Stimulation). The trial is particularly suitable to patients seeking an alternative to medication or who were unable to tolerate anti-depressant drugs or ECT. Participants will receive MBS for 20 minutes three times per week over about a month. Depressed patients aged 18 and over who want to take part in the trial should phone 02 9382 3720 or email TMSandDCS@unsw.edu.au
Read the news release [PDF, 25KB]
Read the flyer [PDF, 38KB]
The Black Dog Institute today launched DepEd, an online education program to help people better understand and manage depression. The Black Dog Institute believes there is a distinct need at the present time to make the assessment and management of mood disorders more sophisticated to ensure people are not over-treated or under-treated for their condition.
Go to DepEd
See the full page ad for DepEd [PDF, 1.1MB]
Read the news release [PDF, 39KB]
The Black Dog Institute Executive Director, Professor Gordon Parker, believes a study that questions the benefits of antidepressants to treat depression poses a real risk of erroneously undermining confidence of people who find them beneficial in the treatment of mood disorders. He said that in contrast to the findings of this study, most people suffering clinical depression and, in particular, melancholic depression (the ‘Black Dog’) who take antidepressants, find them strikingly effective.
See news release [PDF, 45KB]
Judges for the fourth Black Dog Institute Writing and Poetry Competition have started the tough job of selecting our winners for 2008. Pictured (left to right) are Lydia Turner (INSIGHT volunteer), Tanya Hanstock (Senior Clinical Psychologist) and Leon de Bord, (Writer and Manager). The theme of this year's competition was 'Mood Disorders in Adolesence - Grassroots Solutions'. Following the completion of judging, all entrants will be advised of the results while a ceremony is held at the Institute to announce the winners and present their prizes.
Read more about the Writing Competition
Port Macquarie is the first rural centre in New South Wales to have available a world first assessment and diagnostic program that assists in the assessment and diagnosis of mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder.
The Mood Assessment Program (or MAP) is the brainchild of the Black Dog Institute and provides health professionals with the know-how of highly skilled mood disorder specialists.
Read the news release [PDF, 42KB]
Lawyers are a group particularly at risk of suffering mood disorders, disabling conditions which are more common and less well diagnosed or treated than might be expected.
Executive Director of the Black Dog Institute, Professor Gordon Parker, looks at the problem in article he has written for the February edition of the Law Society Journal.
Read the article [PDF, 284KB] Reproduced with permission
Both essays and poems on the subject of Mood Disorders in Adolescence – Grassroots Solutions - were being sought in a competition being conducted by the Black Dog Institute. Entries in the competition closed on 31 January 2008.
Highlighting the fact that 14 percent of children and adolescents in Australia have mental health problems, Professor Gordon Parker, Executive Director of the Black Dog Institute, said today it was vitally important to look more closely at the consumer viewpoint to discover fresh ways of addressing the issue.
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Page last updated: 17-May-2010
Depression and Bipolar Disorder Information Australia - Black Dog Institute.
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