Dr Steve Critchlow has been a practising psychiatrist for many years and has much experience in the various ways of helping people who are struggling with depression.
He will be visiting Athlone on Wednesday January 19 and will give a talk in the Athlone Springs Hotel at 8pm. It is open to all, both those who are suffering from depression and their family or friends who are in support and want to gain a better understanding of depression. There will be a nominal charge of €5 to cover costs.
It is estimated that about 300,000 people in Ireland are suffering from depression at any given time and only about a quarter of them receive adequate help. Some people have an isolated episode of depression with no recurrence after recovery. Others have an ongoing vulnerability to depression but with help they can cope satisfactorily. There are many facets to the treatment of depression including counselling, medication, prayer ministry and support groups like Aware and GROW.
Dr Patricia Casey, a psychiatrist at the Mater and lecturer at UCD, has produced a study outlining the impact of faith on one’s mood. She concludes that some of the benefits of a practising faith include reduced depression and lower suicide rates. Dr Critchlow would concur, but explains that, while an active Christian hope brings spiritual vitality which is emotionally uplifting, it does not mean that Christians are immune from depression. He outlines some of the spiritual, social, mental, and medical factors which are helpful in coping with depression successfully.
Graeme Wylie of Hope Counselling, who are hosting this talk, says that it is this holistic approach which treats the whole person which many people find helpful. All are welcome to come and hear Dr Critchlow at the Athlone Springs Hotel at 8pm.
He will also be in Longford at the Family Centre on Monday January 17 at 8pm and Roscommon on Tuesday January 18 at the Abbey Hotel at 8pm.
