Top researcher available for comment

Drug Action Week 18 - 24 June 2006

HMRI @ The Unversity of Newcastle

Dr Amanda Baker, HMRI researcher at the University of Newcastle's Centre for Mental Health Studies, is an internationally recognised expert researching treatments for people suffering from co-occurring mental health and alcohol or other drug problems. Dr Baker is currently conducting the world's largest treatment study on co-occurring depression and alcohol use. The Depression and Alcohol Integrated and Single-focused Interventions (DAISI) project is investigating the use of cognitive behaviour therapy - a rapid, targeted, drug-free treatment option for depression.

Drug Action Week is an annual initiative of the Alcohol and other Drugs Council of Australia (ACDA). It is a national week of activities to raise awareness about alcohol and other drug issues and to promote the achievements of those who work to reduce drug related harm.

Dr Baker is available to speak to media on her current treatment research and issues surrounding Drug Action Week on 02 4924 6605.

For more information or to volunteer for the DAISI project, contact Sally Hunt, DAISI Project Coordinator, on 02 4924 6618.

Media release prepared by Kate Reid, Media and Public Relations, The University of Newcastle, 02 4921 5351 or 0438 745 098.