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Researcher targets mental health of over-55s
A program designed to improve the quality of life of people aged 55 and over by encouraging their active involvement in both relaxation and stimulating activities is underway at the University of the Sunshine Coast.
The research project by USC Master of Psychology (Clinical) student Linda Finch aims to reduce the burden of mental health issues among older people by developing strategies that enhance their lifestyles within the community.
The Maroochydore resident, who did Honours at USC, is now recruiting healthy older people to participate in her study. She said she was enjoying the real-world links offered by the University’s Masters program.
Her new research and an ongoing study by fellow USC Masters student Kathryn Wilson into anxiety among children aged nine to 12 have been selected for presentation at a national therapy conference in Sydney in October.
“We have an exciting opportunity to showcase our projects at the 34th Australian Association for Cognitive and Behaviour Therapy (AACBT) national conference at the Hilton,” said Ms Finch.
Both presentations fit the 2011 conference theme, “CBT across the lifespan”.
Ms Wilson, of Rosemount, has had positive feedback so far from participants in her study, operating at the USC Psychology Clinic since early this year.
“The research aims to find out whether Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy is an effective treatment option for clinically anxious children,” she said.
“The next groups are due to commence in August and will involve children, and possibly their parents, attending weekly group sessions.”
Both research projects are supervised by USC academic and clinical psychologist Dr Dixie Statham.
“Research training is an integral part of the postgraduate clinical psychology program at USC,” said Dr Statham.
“I’m delighted that Kathryn and Linda’s projects have been accepted for presentation at the national conference in October.”
People aged 55 or over interested in participating in Ms Finch’s study can email LAF004@student.usc.edu.au.
– Julie Gatehouse