A respected psychologist and physician will be offering live advice to online users of Ruby Wax’s mental health site Black Dog Tribe this week, in support of Depression Awareness Week…
Dr Tim Anstiss, a medical doctor trained in cognitive behavioural therapy, interpersonal therapy, motivational interviewing and positive psychology will be 
working with Black Dog Tribe for an hour each day to offer users online advice and encouragement. He will be joined by a number of celebrity guests during the week, all of whom have suffered from depression and are determined to tackle the stigma associated with it. Tim himself had an episode of depression when at medical school, and knows just how painful and isolating it can be. He is a member of the tribe.
“The aim is to help anyone who believes they may be suffering from depression or excessive stress to open up and talk to people that have already experienced it,” said Ruby Wax, a co-founder of the Black Dog Tribe site.
“The word ‘depression’ is well worn and consequently trivialised. There is still a stigma attached to it. It means that people with real problems feel less inclined to talk. So the aim of Black Dog Tribe is give these people a platform to talk, to share problems and experiences and hopefully find a route out.
“Depression Awareness Week is great for focussing people’s attention and for us it kick-starts a plan to bash the stigma of depression and boost our support platform with some excellent advice and forums for the people who need it.”
Dr Tim Anstiss added: “We won’t be diagnosing complaints but will be listening, sharing experiences and exploring options which other people have found helpful. It’s not just about depression either. It’s about helping people experiencing stress and other issues that may lead to depression over time. There should not be any stigma associated with depression. It is part of the human condition. We have to help people realise that. Nor is it a sign of weakness.
“Unfortunately, depression is becoming more common. There is something about modern lifestyles that are making many people depressed, and it can be helpful to talk with like-minded people who have or are experiencing similar things. During the week we will be exploring positive solutions and simple steps that can help people become ‘undepressed’ and stay that way.”
The sessions and can be followed using the Twitter hashtag #bdt or by following @followbdt
www.blackdogtribe.com
PR: Marcom PR
