October is depression awareness month. Depression awareness and breaking stigma of depression is important. Depression affects 15 million Americans each year. Only half of these people will be diagnosed and treated. Half of depressed Americans suffer with anxiety.

Do we need a depression awareness month?

Mental health is important throughout your life. It’s as important as physical health. Getting help for depression should be as easy and free from stigma as going to a dentist.

Fall is difficult for those suffering with depression. Seasonal depression (SAD) adds itself to low energy. Anxiety peeks as the stress of upcoming holidays grows. Increased social isolation caused by weather makes a person feel alone and unwanted.

Depression manifests differently in women and men

Men:

• men tend not to recognize depression or realize they are depressed
• more men fail to seek help than women
• show depression in anger, irritability, and tiredness
• men show depression in actions: reckless behaviour, gambling, drugs, alcohol, abusive behaviour

Women:

• more willing to recognize depression and admit to being depressed
• will seek help faster than a man
• willing to talk about emotions
• women show depression in emotions, like sadness, worthlessness, and guilt

What can you do about depression?

Talking about depression is important. It might in fact be the most important thing to do when you’re depressed. Find someone you trust to confide about your depression. Don’t make the person promise to keep it a secret.

Reach out to a mental health professional. Visit a community mental health centre. Contact an online therapist.

If you have suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK

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