University of New England

Symposium Focuses on Depression from Children to Seniors on June 23rd

"Depression along the Continuum from Childhood to Senior" is the topic of a symposium scheduled for Thursday, June 23, 2005 at the Sheraton Hotel in South Portland.

The day-long program, designed for physicians and other health-care professionals, is co-sponsored by the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine and Maine Medical Center's Department of Psychiatry as part of their Practice Dilemmas series.

Depressive illness affects nearly 19 million American adults, about 10 percent of the population, according to the National Institutes of Mental Health. It can be a devastating illness, not only for the sufferers but for those who care about them. Most people with depression do not seek treatment, although a great majority can be helped.

Seminar topics include the stress-depression link; psychopharmaceuticals; psychotherapy treatment; political, policy and economic issues; and tools to manage depression.

Keynote speaker is Daniel P. Chapman, Ph.D., a psychiatric epidemiologist at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Chapman has produced over 100 scientific publications and presentations. He will discuss "The Vital Link between Chronic Disease and Depressive Disorders." Other featured speakers include medical researchers, psychiatrists and other physicians, university professors and government administrators.

Cost is $95. Continuing medical education for M.D. and D.O. physicians will be provided, as will non-physician contact hours.

Other co-sponsors are Maine Area Health Education Center (AHEC), Maine Geriatric/Gerontology Education Center, Maine Healthcare Access Foundation and UNE-MatureCare.

UNE faculty/staff can register for $50, UNE students are at no charge, and residents and interns can come for $35. To register or for more information, call 283-0170, extension 2589.

(Press release issued May 26, 2005)