Depression: More Than Just the Blues

Depression has become common among many people and sometimes goes undiagnosed. To shed light on this often misunderstood condition, the John P. McGovern Museum of Health & Medical Science unveils it's newest exhibit, "Depression: More Than Just the Blues," Oct. 1.

Presented and underwritten by the Foundation of the Psychiatric Society of Houston, this exhibit addresses the issues of depression and offers information about treatment methods and support to those who suspect or know they are burdened with depression.

Visitors will tour a neighborhood of houses that show sixteen different scenes. The homes look normal from the outside, but inside depict various depression scenarios. Visitors may use these scenes to identify and learn about conditions, which can then lead to discussions about their own feelings and mental health. Mental health topics addressed include various types of conditions and disorders ranging from major depression, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, treatment options and how to seek help.

Approximately one in 10 adults and 4 percent of adolescents suffer from some type of depressive disorder.

"Our goal in supporting the project is to increase awareness of the warning signs of depression and to help people understand its causes and treatment," explained Mohsen Mirabi, M.D., clinical associate professor in the psychiatry and behavioral sciences department at Baylor College of Medicine and psychiatric society foundation president.

Brochures from the National Institute of Mental Health Association and the National Mental Health Association will be available as part of the exhibit. In addition, the Houston Psychiatric Society will host "Brown Bag Lunch Lectures" focusing on mental health and wellness issues held once a month through January. The museum will also offer other related programs and activities.

"Depression: More than Just the Blues" will be on exhibition through Jan. 31. The exhibit will then tour schools, hospitals and community organizations throughout the Houston area. For information about the exhibit or how to bring the display to your organization, call (713) 942-7054, ext. 218.

Special Depression Programs & Activities NOTE - special programming is only offered through Jan. 15

Family Night Program
Nov. 14, 4 to 7 p.m.
"Laughter is the Best Medicine" This program focuses on using laughter as a means for families to promote healing and stress relief.
At 6 p.m., Alice R. Mao, M.D., clinical assistant professor in the psychiatry and behavioral sciences department at Baylor College of Medicine, will discuss warning signs of child and adolescent depression.

Kid Activities
Visit the "Laugh Shop," located in the Kids' Alcove for activities that include making silly hats, worry boxes, house puppets, puzzles and more.

Mini-Classes
Appropriate for all ages. No reservations required and all classes are free with museum admission.

October
"Art and Your Emotions"
Creating a work of art to express emotions

November
"To Feel or Not to Feel ... That is the Question"
Exploring the use of poetry as an emotional outlet allows participants to create a take-home journal.

December
"A Tableau of Emotions"
What are the faces of emotions? Find out in this interactive class where participants create a "human picture" of emotions.

Brown Bag Lunch Lecture Series; Noon to 1:30 - FREE
Reservations are required. Call (713) 942-7504, ext. 121.

Oct. 29, "The Many Faces of Depression," with Mohsen Mirabi, M.D.

Nov. 12, "It's Not All in Your Head: Women and Mental Health," with Lucy J. Puryear, M.D.

Dec. 10, "Aging and Staying Well: Emotionally, Intellectually and Physically," with Nelson Gruber, M.D.

Jan. 8, "ER Psych: How to Get Help in a Crisis," with Avrim B. Fishkind, M.D.

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©2006 Texas Medical Center

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