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MOOD WATCH PROGRAM
(Mood stabilization through work or volunteerism)
WHAT IS IT: A 6-month goal-setting program to put people to work or have them do volunteer work. Geared in particular for people with "unemployment inertia" or "unemployment depression".
SET-UP: Six-month time frame. One 2-hour group session per week with 6-8 participants. Sessions are renewable.
WHO CAN JOIN:Highly motivated individuals with a history of success in major life events. Members will be screened to make sure they are eligible for group.
HOW DOES THE PROGRAM WORK: Program is goal-centered. Members will:
This program makes use of the important concept of "reality checking". This is an key therapeutic tool which ensures that each participant is maintaining objectivity about the outside world.
WHY SHOULD THIS GROUP WORK: Studies have shown that working together as a group is a highly effective way to achieve goals. Self-esteem and confidence are vastly improved.
KEY CONCEPTS:Establish proper circadian rhythms; rely on external events to motivate the individual; give homework assignments of a behavioral nature leading to goal achievement. Also crucial are reality checking, positive reinforcement from group and the feeling of being part of a winning team.