Free lecture focuses on relationship of spirituality to depression

Health care professionals and clergy will examine the relationship of religion and spirituality to depression Sept. 22 as part of the University of Louisville Depression Center-sponsored “Building Hope” lecture series. September 13, 2011

Speakers will discuss how religion and spirituality can predispose someone toward depression or play a role in preventing and treating depression and how clergy and mental health professionals can collaborate more effectively to help patients.

The hourlong session, “Building Hope in Depression: The Role of Religion and Spirituality,” will start at 7 p.m. at the Second Presbyterian Church, 3701 Old Brownsboro Road. Admission is free.

Brian Briscoe, MD, of Kentucky Psychiatric and Mental Health Services, will speak on “Integrating Spirituality into a Comprehensive Understanding of Patients.” Anne Reed, MDiv, a board-certified chaplain in adult and pediatric psychiatry at Norton and Kosair Children’s Hospitals, will address “Spirituality and Depression: Encouraging Healing in the Broken Places.”

Allan Josephson, MD, professor and vice-chair for child and adolescent psychiatry services in the School of Medicine and CEO of the Bingham Clinic, will moderate the discussion as the presenting chair.

The UofL Depression Center is Kentuckiana’s leading resource for depression and bipolar disorder treatment, research and education.