Puzzled about depression? Free open day at University of Exeter Mood Disorders Centre

Experts will demystify the claims of miracle cures including the recent headline that wine drinking can protect against depression. Visitors will be shown how to look behind the headlines to find out what the research really said and reveal how true the headlines really are. 

Visitors can also hear about the new therapies that are being used to treat depression, find out how they are developed and how they can get involved in the research. 

Organiser of the event Dr Joanne Welsman from the University of Exeter said: “According to the latest official figures, nearly one in five people experience anxiety or depression. That means that all of us know someone who suffers from depression and, with partners, children and friends affected, it means we all need to know more about living with depression. So we’ve put together a really useful day of information to guide people through the maze.” 

A group of expert patients, with first-hand experience of living with depression, have for the past three years guided research at the University’s Mood Disorders Centre. Known as the Lived Experience Group, these volunteers will be on hand throughout the day to help visitors understand more about depression, explain what new treatments are being developed and what support is available for sufferers. 

Children are welcome and there will be fun activities for 5-11 year olds.

The Mood Disorders Centre is near the main entrance to the University just off Streatham Drive.

A sandwich lunch will be available from 12:15 and refreshments will be available throughout the day.

For further information and to book child places contact: thedepressionpuzzle@outlook.com.

For the full programme see:  http://www.exeter.ac.uk/mooddisorders/leg/ourevents/