Health

Science Behind the Headlines- The Holiday Blues

Depression and anxiety are the leading causes of disability worldwide, but do we really understand what 3 million Australians are suffering each year? Is there really such a thing as the ‘holiday blues’?

Holiday Blues

Depression and anxiety are the leading causes of disability worldwide, but do we really understand what 3 million Australians are suffering each year? Is there really such a thing as the ‘holiday blues’.

RiAus Director, Dr Paul Willis, will join a panel of experts to discuss this disconcerting topic in the latest in the Science Behind the Headlines series – ‘Holiday Blues’. The event, to be held next Tuesday night at The Science Exchange, Adelaide, will examine what it means to be depressed and how the media portrays these medical issues. The discussion will also be broadcast live online.

“It’s probably fair to say that depression and anxiety are two of the most pressing public health issues in Australia at the moment”, says RiAus Director and host of the event, Dr Paul Willis. “Groups such as beyondblue have done a wonderful job of increasing public awareness of the issues, resulting in more people feeling comfortable talking about their illnesses.”

“The mainstream media has also played an important role in raising public awareness. This Science Behind the Headlines will look at how these different groups have managed to get across their messages”, said Dr Willis.

“Some of the best support still comes from friends and loved ones, so we will also be discussing just what is depression and anxiety, what are the causes, and how to recognise and support each other”, he said.

Guest panellists include:
A/Prof Les Koopowitz: Clinical Associate Professor in Psychiatry, University of Adelaide and Clinical Psychiatrist, Health on Kensington Dr Oliver Schubert: Senior Lecturer in Psychiatry, University of Adelaide Dr Joe Milton: – Senior Media Officer, Australian Science Media Centre (AusSMC)

 

For further details about Science Behind the Headlines: Holiday Blues please visit www.riaus.org.au

If you find yourself feeling the Holiday Blues and need someone to talk to, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit them online at www.lifeline.org.au

More News

To Top