Some eastern Kentucky women wrestling with depression could benefit from a new program taking place this summer. It’s being developed in a region where treatment options are
limited.
Depression among rural women in Kentucky runs four times higher than the general rate of depression in the U.S. Poverty and violence can be contributing factors. This issue was one of many discussed at the Annual Research Day program in Hazard Wednesday.
University of Kentucky Assistant Professor in Behavioral Science Claire Snell Rood says some depressed women steer clear of therapeutic drugs. “They had fears that if they were to take medication, then it could get out of control and for some people, that made them avoid medication of any kind,” said Snell Rood.
Snell Rood says the group sessions are expected to allow women to map out individualized plans to further wellness. She hopes to see similar programs in other Appalachian counties like Breathitt and Knott.