Older Adult Mental Health Is Focus of NRCI Community Conference

CHICAGO, May 2, 2018 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Centers for Disease Control estimates that 20% of people ages 55 or older experience some type of mental health concern, the most common of which include anxiety and mood disorders. The goal of the Naomi Ruth Cohen Institute for Mental Health Education (NRCI) 17^th Annual Community Mental Health Conference is to shine a light on some of these issues, while also informing, teaching, and identifying resources to enhance quality of life for older adults, their families and caregivers. Titled Older Adult Mental Health: Opportunities and Challenges, the conference will take place on June 3, 2018 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Roycemore School in Evanston, IL.

Registration is now open. Housed at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, NRCI works to overcome the stigma of mental illness through promoting educational programs and supporting organizations engaged in mental illness research.

Conference discussion groups will be moderated by experts from such organizations as North Shore Senior Center, CJE SeniorLife, and Life Changes Counseling and Care Planning, and will focus on some of the most pressing topics facing older adults, including finding needed support when one is on one's own, developmental issues in aging, managing anxiety and depression as one ages, and coping with loss.

The opening panel includes experts:

• Jeffrey Rediger, M.D., MDiv, is on the faculty at Harvard Medical School and serves as the Chief of Behavioral Medicine at Caritas Good Samaritan Medical Center.  He will share advances in integrative medicine and effective approaches to addressing older adult mental health.  Dr. Rediger's innovative approaches to holistic health have gained national attention though publications and appearances on the Oprah Winfrey and Dr. Oz shows. 
• Stanley G. McCracken, Ph.D., LCSW, RDDP is a lecturer at the University of Chicago, School of Social Service Administration. He has 40 years' experience as a clinician, educator, and consultant, and has published on mental health and older adults for the National Center for Gerontological Social Work Education. He regularly consults with Rush University Health and Aging and Road Home Programs; Lake County Veterans and Families Service Foundation; and Asian Human Services.
• Nancy Carstedt, Executive Director of NAMI, Cook County North Suburban, will share her personal recovery journey.

"There have been so many advances which empower people to live vibrant, fulfilling lives as they age," said Kate Mahoney, L.C.S.W., executive director, NRCI. "Our expert panel and discussion group leaders will share research, strategies and community resources for older adults and those who love and care for them.  No one should feel that they have to navigate the aging process alone."

About NRCI
The Naomi Ruth Cohen Institute for Mental Health Education's goal is to overcome the stigma of mental illness. The Institute promotes educational programs and supports organizations engaged in mental illness research, education, self-help, anti-discrimination and advocacy. The institute annually plans, promotes and underwrites a Community Mental Health Conference. The Conference — open to professionals and members of the public — addresses critical mental health issues. To learn more, visit naomicoheninstitue.org

About The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
Founded in 1979, The Chicago School of Professional Psychology (TCSPP) is a nonprofit, private school devoted exclusively to psychology, and related behavioral health sciences. The Chicago School is an affiliate of TCS, a nonprofit system of colleges advancing student success and community impact. The institution serves approximately 4,300 students across campuses in Chicago; Southern California (Los Angeles, Irvine and San Diego); and Washington, D.C., as well as through online programs. The Chicago School is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission, (WSCUC), and its Clinical Psychology Doctoral Programs in Chicago and Washington, D.C. are accredited by the American Psychological Association. With more than 20 graduate degree programs, thousands of hours of real-world training, and a wealth of international opportunities, TCSPP is one of the leaders in professional psychology and behavioral health education. To learn more, visit www.thechicagoschool.edu.

MEDIA CONTACT: Lisa Riley
312.410.8963
[email protected]

SOURCE The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

Related Links

http://www.thechicagoschool.edu