Depression Awareness Month

Announcements

The month of October is National Depression and Mental Health Screening month. It is a time to raise awareness, share resources, and to screen for depression. Sharing information and resources on depression is more important than ever because according to a Gallup News poll, which stated, “In 2023, 29.0% of Americans report having been diagnosed with depression in their lifetime, while 17.8% reporting currently having depression,” it is a pervasive disorder across the US. Furthermore, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression affects nearly 280 million people worldwide. National Depression Screening Day is observed on October 5 this year. A depression screening can be completed on the Mental Health America’s website.

Depression may look like a persistent sad or low mood, feelings of emptiness or hopelessness, loss of motivation, increased fatigue/loss of energy, loss of interest or pleasure in most activities, significant weight gain or weight loss, difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, trouble thinking, concentrating, or making decisions, slowed psychomotor movements, and thoughts of death and suicide.

There are several different types of depression including:

  • Major Depressive Disorder
  • Persistent Depressive Disorder
  • Seasonal Affective Disorder
  • Perinatal Depression
  • Depression with Psychosis

How can I participate in Depression Awareness Month?

  1. Check in on friends and loved ones who may be experiencing depression.
  2. Offer support and resources to connect others with mental health services such as individual and group therapy, psychological services, psychiatry, and medical doctors.
  3. Share your own story of depression to help others learn they are not alone and that asking for help is an important part of the journey towards wellness.
  4. Become educated. Learn more about depression and debunk common depression myths.
  5. Inform others about the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: 988

Additional information on Depression (and to credit the above sources):

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