Black Dog Institute

Where your Zoo2Zoo fundraising goes and how it helps the Black Dog Institute

The Black Dog Institute (BDI) was formally launched in February 2002. The institute builds on the work of its predecessor, the Mood Disorders Unit, established 17 years earlier as a state-wide clinical research facility. The Institute is attached to the Prince of Wales Hospital and affiliated with the University of New South Wales.

The Institute's mission is to advance the understandind, diagnosis and management of mood disorders by continuously raising clinical, research, education and training standards. In so doing, the Institute aims to improve the lives of those affected - and in turn - the lives of their families and friends.

What does the Black Dog Institute do?

The Black Dog Institute is a not for profit organisation dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by mood disorders through high quality translational research, clinical expertise and education programs.

The Institute’s operational model is represented by four interactive streams:

Clinical services: We have a Depression Clinic and Bipolar Disorder Clinic that provide free clinical assessments and comprehensive second-opinion services for those suffering treatment resistant mood disorders. These are dependent upon a referral from a GP or psychiatrist (the Institute does not take over the management of patients).

Research: We undertake research into the clinical nature of depression, bipolar disorder and other related areas.

Education: We provide Professional Education and Training to GP's, psychologists, nurses and allied health professionals, as well as school counsellors and teaching staff to help them recognise, understand and manage mood disorders in their clients.

We also have Community Education Programs for the general community, including workplace, youth and rural, to assist in raising awareness and access to mental health information. The Community team embraces the support of Volunteers.

To learn more about the Black Dog Institute and the great work they do, visit https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/

What is the meaning behind the name and logo?

The term "Black Dog" comes from the metaphor most famously used by Winston Churchill to describe his own depression. His famous 'V' for Victory salute is referenced in the Black Dog Institute logo as a symbol that depression can be overcome.

In the Institute's logo, the victory sign casts the shadow of a black dog and provides a metaphor for a disorder that is constantly lurking in the background but that the positive is more powerful than the negative.

Who funds the Black Dog Institute

The Black Dog Institute receives some government funding, though relies heavily on generous donations from individuals, businesses and community fundraising events, such as the Zoo2Zoo rides.