Canberra, Monday 16 July, 2001

ANU launches MoodGYM on the Internet

The world's first free Internet-based therapy program to help prevent depression in young people will be officially launched by ACT Health Minister Michael Moore, for The Australian National University this week.

The MoodGYM web site helps teenagers and young adults identify whether they are experiencing, or at risk of developing anxiety or depression and then teaches them how to overcome such problems using Cognitive Behaviour Therapy. CBT, as it's also known, assists people to modify the way they think and improve their mental health.

This type of therapy has been proven to be as effective as antidepressants, in treating mild to moderate depression. "Depression is a major health problem and a major risk for suicide in Australia", Dr Helen Christensen, author of MoodGYM said. "Research shows many people fail to seek help for their depression. We hope by providing this free Cognitive Behaviour Therapy via the Internet, we may be able to save lives".

On trial since March this year, the site is already proving popular, averaging 800 hits a week. A breakdown by continent reveals that 55 per cent of the web traffic is coming from North America, with increasing levels of activity in South America, Asia and Europe. Although many of the hits from Australia may be directed through US servers, Dr Kathy Griffiths Co-author of MoodGYM, said they expected a further rise in domestic use, as the site officially comes on-line.

Dr Christensen and Dr Griffiths from the ANU's Centre for Mental Health Research, will be monitoring the site in the coming months, to see if there are improvements in the mental health of those logging on. "It's a well known fact that CBT is an effective preventive intervention for depression, all that remains to be seen is whether this therapy will be beneficial when delivered in cyberspace", Dr Christensen said.

ACT Health Minister Michael Moore will officiate at the launch, while Olympic athlete Paul Miller and local personality Mel Ross from 104.7 FM will be guest speakers.

What: MoodGYM Website Launch
When: Wednesday July 18, 2001 from 10.30 am
Where: The National Museum, Peninsula Room, Acton
Web site: http://moodgym.anu.edu.au

Note: Ample media parking close to the museum, will be provided on the day.

For further information contact: Dr Helen Christensen or Claire Kelly, Centre for Mental Health Research 02 6125 8699 (w)
Leah Slattery, Media Liaison Officer, on (02) 6125 5001 (w), 0416 249 108 (m).

No 56/2001

© 2000 Marketing & Communications Division,
The Australian National University.
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Last Modified Tue, July 16, 2002