The Univ. of Kansas lifestyle program for mood disorders

[RWPossum]

If you google "Metapsychology Ilardi," you can read a psychologist's review of The Depression Cure, a self-help book in which Stephen Ilardi, clinical psychologist and researcher at the University of Kansas, explains his six-step lifestyle change program for stress, anxiety, and depression.  The reviewer was pleased with the book overall, but commented that evidence from a peer-reviewed article was lacking.  On the other hand, the program's six lifestyle elements are supported independently by their own research findings.

"There's no one-size-fits-all treatment for depression," says Ilardi.  He says that antidepressants have their place, but in some cases lifestyle change is more appropriate. 

What I find especially interesting about ilardi's work is its significance with regard to pediatrics.  An FDA warning has greatly reduced prescriptions of antidepressants to minors and, indirectly, diagnoses of depression with this population.  The Ilardi program is not only low cost and low risk, it offers things that young people enjoy, such as music and outdoor exercise.  Unlike antidepressants, it can be used for sub-clinical mood problems, which "moody" teenagers are famous for.

For an interview with the author, google "Ilardi Kansas change your life"