Artist, teacher and mother Nicky Johnson now has author to add to her list of accomplishments. Being a mother of 3 young boys and having worked in the primary school education sector for the past 15 years prompted Nicky to publish her first book for children dealing with anxiety, "Go Away, Mr Worrythoughts". With her eldest son being diagnosed with Generalised Anxiety Disorder at only 5 years of age and having suffered post natal depression and anxiety herself, Nicky began research anxiety in children and found that there was little published material to help children deal with their anxiety.

Being able to emphasise with what her son was experiencing gave Nicky not only the motivation but the background for her themes, text and illustrations in the book; that of isolation and despair. Go Away Mr Worrythoughts! is based on her son's inspiring recovery; through identifying, taking control and managing the anxiety disorderthat once governed his life. The story of "Brayden" portrays a boy who is overcome by 'worry thoughts' and unbearable anxiety and is designed to encourage children to manage and overcome their anxiety and fear.

Nicky also works for TACV as a Traffic Safety Educator, teaching primary school children the many aspects of road safety. She has also worked with chidlren with Special Education needs in her 15 years of teaching, is an accomplished artist and a professional make-up artist.

Does your child/teen...Lose their temper over minor things; have difficulty concentrating; have trouble sitting still; complain of headaches or stomach-aches without medical cause; feel sad or vry for no apparent reason; no longer enjoy his/her favourite activities; sleep more than usual?

Did you know...Nearly one in ten children/adolescents suffer from depression (one in five adults)? The transition from primary school to secondary school is a large risk factor, along with divorce, bullying, school pressure etc. Depression is a largely preventable disease.

How can we help our children/teens?

Parents and teachers need to be taught the skills to help their children prevent depression, how to identify if their children are at risk for or suffering from depression, and be informed of the treatments available to assist their children.

During this seminar, attendees will be given some practical advice, and the opportunity to speak to a psychologist/teacher/parent that is passionate about the PREVENTION of this illness.

Sally-Anne McCormack is a registered psycholigst, a former teacher and mother of four. She works as a psychologist in private practice in Blackburn and Burwood East. Sally-Anne is a committee members of the Australian Psychological Society (APS) and is registered with them as a media spokesperson. In addition to her professional associations (e.g. VAGTC., DIPP, Mensa) Sally-Anne holds a position on the ADAVIC committee and has written a program for children and adolescents to help teach some strategies to prevent depression.

$20.00 non-members and $10.00 for ADAVIC Members (pre-payment required)