Learn How To Cope With Stress & Anxiety

FARMINGTON — The University of Connecticut Health Center is offering two six-week group therapy programs this spring to help people cope with anxiety, depression and stress-related illnesses, including the stress of having a chronic illness.

Two sessions of the Personal Health Improvement Program will meet weekly at the health center’s 10 Talcott Notch medical office building. One group will meet in the evening, starting on Tuesday, May 4, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. The second group will meet in the morning, starting on Thursday, May 6, from 10 am to noon.

Both groups will be facilitated by Norman Andrekus, PhD, a licensed clinical psychologist with extensive experience in developing the mind-body connection through the study of Buddhism, yoga, and behavioral medicine.

“This program is designed to teach participants new ways of observing their symptoms with a fresh perspective that emphasizes the importance of the mind-body connection,” explained Dr Andrekus, of the health center’s department of psychiatry.

Dr Andrekus employs interactive lectures, discussions, and small group activities to help participants learn how to reduce stress and respond to everyday situations more effectively. “Participants will learn a mindfulness process via in-class instruction and practice as well as by use of workbook and tape,” he said.

The Personal Health Improvement Program is a clinically tested and proven way of reducing stress-related illness. The curriculum was originally created by Matthew Budd, MD, the former director of behavioral medicine for the Harvard Pilgrim Medical Group. Dr Andrekus has expanded this program using behavior change principles of cognitive psychotherapy.

“Research shows that chronic symptoms such as pain, fatigue, ongoing headaches, insomnia, and depression can be related to everyday stress and moods. The skills learned in this program help participants learn to recognize their typical reactions to daily stress, and shows them new skills to change negative patterns,” Dr Andrekus added.

“Anyone who is experiencing ongoing stress-related physical symptoms, chronic illness or other pain, discomfort or imbalance in their lives may want to take a serious look at this program. Though the program meets for only six weeks, we hope to give participants tools and resources they can draw upon throughout their lives,” he said.

Class registration is limited. For more information call 860-679-6700.