Program Teaches Participants to Cope With Depression

BUFFALO, N.Y. -- A 12-week program to teach individuals skills to help them cope with depression will be offered this fall at the University at Buffalo.

Participants in the "Coping With Depression" program will learn such techniques as relaxation, assertiveness, increasing positive activities and modifying negative thinking styles.

John Roberts, Ph.D., assistant professor of psychology, noted that this program can be effective in combination with either medication or individual psychotherapy in cases of more severe depression. It also can be used alone for those with mild to moderate depression.

Signs and symptoms of depression can include changes in appetite or sleep habits, loss of energy or interest in activities and feelings of worthlessness or guilt that can persist for several weeks or interfere with daily life.

Registration deadline for the program is Sept. 1. Classes will meet on the North (Amherst) Campus for two hours once a week beginning in mid-September.

Participants can lower their fees by 50 percent if they join a three-center research project and complete questionnaires before, during and after completing the program.

Anyone interesting in participating in the program should call 716-645-3697 for more information and registration.