beyond maturityblues is a joint project with beyondblue: the national depression initiative and COTA, promoting understanding and raising awareness of anxiety and depression in older Australians.

This project helps to dispel the myth that anxiety and depression are a normal part of ageing by providing support and advice for older people that reduces stigmatising attitudes and increases knowledge of where to receive appropriate help.

COTA Queensland’s beyond maturityblues peer education sessions help participants to:

• recognise the early warning signs of anxiety and depression
• find ways to manage the illness and recover faster
• seek help
• enjoy good mental health

All sessions are free and take 45-60 minutes. Our Peer Educators are skilled in delivering empowering, valuable, fun and interactive sessions. Participants also receive useful resources.

In addition to older peoples’ groups, beyond maturityblues sessions are also available to:

• carers’ groups
• chronic illness support groups
• men’s groups
• veterans’ groups
• volunteers’ groups
• rural and remote communities

To book a session for your group or for further information, please call 1300 738 348, fax in a booking form or email bookings@cotaq.org.au

Groups interested in booking a session in Chinese, Italian, Greek or Vietnamese should enquire about availability.

For more information on seniors and depression, visit the beyondblue website, www.beyondblue.org.au or call the beyondblue info line 1300 224 636