Speaking as he officially opened Aware Defeat Depression’s new premises in Belfast, the Minister acknowledged the important role they play in tackling the public’s perception towards depression.
The Minister said: “I have allocated an extra £12million to mental health services in 2008/09 to improve access to community and specialist mental health services. Further investment totalling over £40million is planned for the following two years."
The Minister added: “Aware Defeat Depression has shown a fresh and innovative approach to tackling depression. It has, in a relatively short time, established a network of 24 support groups throughout Northern Ireland.
“It is estimated that about 66% of adults have depression at some time in their life. A serious episode of depression which requires treatment occurs in about one in four women and one in 10 men.
“Aware has set up a helpline providing information, support and a listening ear to people affected, directly and indirectly, by depression as often opening up and discussing problems with someone is the first step to recovery.
“I have been encouraged by the partnerships Aware has established with schools, the Health Promotion Agency, Boards and Trusts in getting their message across.”
Recognising the role of the Ulster Chemists' Association, the Minister concluded: “Pharmacists are at the coal face of health service delivery and may be the first point of contact for a patient suffering from one of the physical symptoms that may accompany the onset of depression. Their co-operation in working with Aware Defeat Depression to help them recognise depression and deal with it is to be commended.”
Notes to Editors:
- Aware Defeat Depression was established in Northern Ireland in 1996. It provides support and information to people directly affected by depression. A network of 24 self-help support groups offer individuals, sufferers and carers, opportunities to share experiences and give support to each other. These groups are facilitated by fully trained members who themselves have been affected by depression.
- Aware Defeat Depression provides well–researched information to sufferers and carers in the form of booklets, leaflets and audiotape. It seeks to dispel the myths and misunderstandings associated with depression through public lectures. It undertakes research into the individual and social consequences of depression and into its causes and treatment.
- In 2008/09, the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety will provide a grant of £37,455 towards the organisation's central administrative expenditure. The Department in the past, has funded a three-year project to help establish the ‘Mood Matters’ awareness programme for schools and colleges. Also, the Department in 2007/08 completed funding a three-year pilot Cognitive Therapy Awareness programme.
- Media enquiries should be directed to the DHSSPS press office on 02890 520505, or out of hours contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.
