News Release

August 17, 2007

Contact: Maureen McGuire, 860-679-4523
e-mail: mmcguire@nso.uchc.edu

Minimizing Stress and Anxiety

Empowering Six-Week Program at UConn Health Center

FARMINGTON, CONN. – Starting in September, the University of Connecticut Health Center will offer two six-week group therapy programs to help people reduce anxiety, depression and stress-related problems.

Two programs of the Personal Health Improvement class will run weekly at the 10 Talcott Notch Medical Office in Farmington. One group will meet in the evening, starting Tuesday, Sept. 11, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The second group will meet in the morning, starting Thursday, Sept. 13, from 10 a.m. to noon.

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

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.

“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 show them new ways to change negative patterns,” Dr. Andrekus said.

“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,” Dr. Andrekus added.

Class registration is limited. For more information, including information about insurance coverage, call 860-679-6700, option 3, and ask for Virginia. 

The University of Connecticut Health Center includes the schools of medicine and dental medicine, the UConn Medical Group, University Dentists, and John Dempsey Hospital, a Solucient Top 100 Hospital® 2006. Founded in 1961, the Health Center pursues a mission of providing outstanding health care education in an environment of exemplary patient care, research and public service. To learn more about the UConn Health Center, visit our website at www.uchc.edu.

Note: News professionals are invited to visit the Office of Communications homepage at www.uchc.edu/ocomm/ for archived news releases and other information.