The Psychosocial Research and Depression Clinic in the Department of Psychiatry at The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas is conducting research on cognitive therapy to treat people who have been depressed more than once in their lives.  Cognitive therapy is a short-term, talking therapy that focuses on negative patterns of thinking and develops coping skills. 

     Eligible individuals receive 16 or 20 sessions of cognitive therapy over 12 weeks.  Evaluation and treatment are provided at no cost.  After 16 or 20 sessions of therapy, eligible individuals will be followed for 8 more months and receive booster sessions of cognitive therapy, medication (Prozac), or sugar pill placebo. 

     The study will address whether “booster sessions” or medication will help individuals avoid relapse (return) of depression.  Participation is strictly confidential.  Volunteers who are not currently in psychiatric treatment, are drug-free and physically healthy should call: (214) 648-5351. 

     The symptoms of depression include:

• depressed or sad mood
• loss of interest in activities
• difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
• feeling slowed down
• feeling tired or having low energy
• feeling guilty or worthless
• changes in appetite or weight
• difficulty concentrating