Bringing depression to light

MANILA, Philippines - The Natasha Goulbourn Foundation (NGF), in cooperation with the San Antonio Parish Health Ministry, continues its awareness campaign with a new series of lectures on May 23, 8:30 a.m. at the Santuario de San Antonio, McKinley Road, Forbes Park, Makati.

NGF is a non-profit organization whose primary objective is to promote an enhanced understanding of depression through education and communication for those who suffer from it, family and friends affected by it, and the general public.

It is important to raise awareness about this emotional illness — its signs and symptoms; its treatment and management options; its dire personal, social and economic impacts; and the fact that it is not only preventable but treatable as well.

There will be two talks sponsored by NGF with renowned clinical psychologist and author Dr. Ma. Lourdes “Honey” Carandang who will speak about “Family Support for Depression.” Dr. Carandang is the founder of MLAC Institute for children and families, which she established last year after three decades of teaching, research and after mentoring generations of psychology students.

Guest speaker Dr. Natalie Rasgon of Stanford University Hospital, who is a professor in the Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences and Obstetrics & Gynecology in the Stanford School of Medicine, will discuss “Can Depression Kill?: An Association between Depression, Diabetes & Heart Disease.”

“Alternative Modalities for Depression,” a holistic approach to help manage depression, will be held in the afternoon. It’s sponsored by Global Vital Source. Topics include “Food for the Brain” by holistic nutritionist Dr. Dale Flores, “Acupuncture for Depression, Stress & Sleeping Problems” by Dr. Mike Vergara, and “Physical Manipulation for Mental & Physical Balance” by Dr. Maria Joceline Bilasano.

There is an urgent need to empower individuals suffering from depression with resources, professionals and organizations that can open new doors in their journey to self-discovery and well-being. For family and friends of people afflicted by depression, it is vital to know and understand this illness and provide constructive support during this difficult time.

NGF aims to demystify the stigma of mental disorders, particularly depression through lectures and seminars, and to also promote integrative approaches in the treatment of depression and employing the best, proven modalities of mainstream medicine and proven alternative natural medicine treatments for the maximum benefit of those with depression.

To register, call 897-2217, SMS Margie at 0917-8725514, or 0917-8990242. A donation of P500 for each (morning and afternoon) session attended would be much appreciated.