Lifting women’s spirits

By Ed Merrison
A NEW initiative to tackle depression has been launched in a bid to make Hills women feel good about themselves.
Ranges Community Health Service in Belgrave is running an eight-week self esteem group for women which started on Wednesday, 12 July.
According to program facilitator Melanie de Bree, the aim of the course is to provide a supportive and friendly environment where women can have fun, share experiences and learn new skills to improve their sense of personal well-being.
“Some of the topics being covered include assertiveness, goal-setting, decision-making, conflict resolution, relaxation and taking care of yourself.
“There will be the opportunity to explore themes in a variety of ways including discussion, art making, symbols, music and guided imagery,” she said.
According to national depression initiative Beyond Blue, approximately a million adults experience depression each year in Australia.
Women are believed to be more vulnerable than men, with one in four women expected to experience depression at some stage during their lifetime, compared with one in six men.
Ms de Bree said building self-esteem was an important strategy in both preventing depression and in managing it.
“There is a strong link between low self-esteem and depression. Negative and self-critical thoughts common with depression generally come about as a result of poor self-esteem.
“Small issues can become overwhelming and seriously inhibit a person’s ability to lead a satisfying lifestyle,” she said.
The group will be open to all women from their early 20s upwards. Inquiries can be made at Ranges Community Health on 9754 8963.