As the dreary days of winter arrive, the NI Health Minister Michael McGimpsey has launched a new treatment for people with mild or moderate depression.

'Beating the Blues' is a computer-based cognitive behaviour therapy programme designed to be used by people with depression to treat their condition.

Over £1million has been invested in the programme which will benefit up to 50,000 people across Northern Ireland.

Speaking at the launch this week - at Finaghy Health Centre in Belfast - the Minister said: "Depression is the most common mental illness and can affect anyone at any stage of their lives.

"The introduction of 'Beating the Blues' is a welcome development in offering a further treatment for mild or moderate depression.

"It offers GPs an alternative to prescribing anti-depressants and people with depression will now have the choice of using this proven self help tool," he said.

Patients who avail of the programme can work through a series of eight sessions on a computer at home, in a library or wherever they feel most comfortable.

The programme is confidential and secure, and following each session, a report is sent to their GP so that progress can be monitored and appropriate action taken as required.

(BMcC/GK)