Operation Iraqi Freedom veteran to discuss PTSD

VERNON, N.Y. >> Rome Memorial Hospital’s Senior Behavioral Health Unit’s (SBHU) 15th annual mental health symposium will take place Friday, Oct. 26, from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Vernon Downs Casino Hotel Conference Center, Vernon.

Registration is open to all area healthcare providers, mental health professionals and the general public.

According to event coordinator Greg Jones, admissions and marketing coordi- nator of the SBHU, the conference’s keynote speaker, Bryan Adams, a US Army infantry veteran, will speak on PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder).

“Bryan will speak candidly on his military service in Iraq, being wounded, as well as his struggles with depression and anxiety and alcohol abuse upon returning to civilian life” he said. “His unique story includes messages of inspiration and hope for anyone struggling with PTSD.”

Other speakers at the event include:

• Deborah Cabral, who will speak about specific techniques to improve decision making and critical thinking skills in the healthcare and mental health fields. Her second session will focus on improving customer service skills with patients and co-workerswhich will improve workplace performance; and

• Dr. Marcellus Cephas, medical director of the SBHU, will discuss ‘NICHE’ approaches to fall reduction and stability improvement in the elderly.

The cost of the conference is $125 per person. Facilities or organizations sending three or more persons are eligible for a group rate of $110 per person. The fee includes the seminar, course materials, continental breakfast and lunch, a certificate of attendance and CEU credits (licensed social workers). Fees are non-refundable.

Advance payment and registration can be made by contacting Greg Jones at 338-7171 or gjones@romehospital.org. Registration can also be made the day of the event.

Checks, made payable to Rome Memorial Hospital, may be mailed to: Greg Jones, Rome Memorial Hospital Senior Behavioral Health Unit, 1500 N. James St., Rome, NY, 13440.

Located on the hospital’s second floor, the 12-bed Senior Behavioral Health Unit is a secure therapeutic en- vironment that provides health care for older adults (ages 55 and older) who have depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. Treatment includes prescribed medications, psychotherapy, and other activities to help the seniors regain their well-being.

The Senior Behavioral Health Unit can take admissions seven days a week, 24 hours a day to meet the needs of seniors in crisis. For more information, call 338-7399.