Mindfulness for Depression: Theory and Practice

Thursday 17 July Mindfulness for Depression: Theory and Practice
Join us for a series of talks experts looking at the range of psychological treatments available, including the use of ACT and other Mindfulness types of therapy, their use and possible benefits.
With Prof Stephen Lawrie, Head of Psychiatry & Beltane Public Engagement Fellow, Edinburgh University and Prof Stewart Mercer, Professor of Primary Care Research, Glasgow University & Trustee, Mindfulness Scotland
6.30pm
Accompanying Art Exhibit Paintings on easels from Eileen Hall will be exhibited alongside the talks - they are her response to the use of mindfulness therapy.
Advance booking required.
FREE EVENT

Depression is surprisingly common, affecting about one in 20 of us at any point in time, and as many as one-half of humanity over the average lifetime. Major life changes and stressors can bring about depression, which we may feel we have little or no control over. People with depression are often unable to see that they do have choices and can bring about change in a variety of ways. Several studies have demonstrated that a variety of psychological methods can be effective in treating the symptoms experienced, reducing the chances they return and may also help prevent a person with mild depression from becoming more severely depressed. Some of the more common psychological methods used are those such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy or ACT (said as one word rather than three letters) is a modern form of cognitive behavioural therapy that emphasises a behavioural approach to living with depression. In common with other mindfulness therapies, ACT shares an emphasis on compassion, kindness and common humanity. The goal of the therapy is to use acceptance and mindfulness in the service of taking steps closer to what is important in life, rather than follow a strategy of ‘once I control my depression; then I will start doing the things I used to do’.

Join us for a series of talks experts looking at the range of psychological treatments available, including the use of ACT and other Mindfulness types of therapy, their use and possible benefits.

Accompanying Art Exhibit
Paintings on easels from Eileen Hall (mail@eileen-hall.com) will be exhibited alongside the talks - they are her response to the use of mindfulness therapy.  They will be assembled about 1 hour before the talk and removed once talk has finished and people have left. Should be in reasonable proximity to talk venue so people arriving and departing will see them and have an opportunity to talk to the artist.