In 2008 I took up a 3 day a week position as the Creative Director at the Black Dog Institute (blackdoginstitute.org.au) or as some like to call me D.O.G.I (Director Of Good Ideas). After 15 years in advertising this was a big change in scenery and very much for the better.
Many people have asked did I start the Institute and the answer is definitely not, it was started by Professor Gordon Parker over 10 years. I didn’t even know it existed when I wrote IHABD. Ever since the 1st meeting there has been an amazing synergy of ideas and collaboration. It is a surprisingly creative place to work and I’m very grateful to be there.
Many people also ask if it’s depressing working there and the answer is quite the opposite – it’s full of like minded people who are passionate shining light on a misunderstood facet of the human condition. It’s not just about mood disorders, we focus a lot on positive psychology, building resilience. There’s always fascinating research projects going on such as using meditation, accupuncture, exercise and even eating dark chocolate to help our grey matter be a bit more shiny. The other thing I love about the Institute, it’s not just run by academics there is a fantastic mix of consumer driven events.
For those who don’t know the Black Dog Institute – it is New South Wales non for for profit, research facility that specialises in mood disorders; namely bipolar and depression. Research is the cornerstone of everything the Institute does and says.
There are many other facets, too many to go into here, so please check out the website.
