University of Alabama researchers are looking for adults 50 or older, who live in Marengo County and are suffering from both depression and insomnia for a research study.

Forrest Scogin, UA professor of psychology, has been studying depression for about 30 years. Scogin, along with his partner Kenny Lichstein, professor of psychology, are the lead researchers for the project. Lichstein specializes in insomnia, and they both have an expertise working with older patients.

Researchers will deliver cognitive-behavior therapy to treat insomnia and depression. The therapy will be delivered through the online video-conferencing program Skype.

The study will be carried out at the Sleep Disorders Center in the Bryan W. Whitfield Memorial Hospital in Demopolis.

Lichstein said the participants will schedule an appointment to go to the hospital and take part in the treatment.

Some of the treatments for insomnia include relaxation and sleep scheduling and the treatments for depression include behavior activation involving social involvement.

“We have some results from about five patients and those results have been encouraging,” Lichstein said.

UA’s Office of Information Technology has configured a safe and secure version of Skype to promote confidentiality.

“Telemedicine is a new wave of the future,” Scogin said about using Skype to deliver the treatment.

Anyone interested in participating in the study should phone 205-348-1963. Individuals should leave a message indicating their willingness to participate in the research study. Individuals should also leave a name, call-back number and convenient times to call.