National Depression Education and Awareness Month
October is finally here time for apple orchards and warm cider and children to pick out their Halloween costumes. Autumn is indeed a special time not only because of harvest festivities but, also because October is National Depression Education and Awareness Month.
Major Depressive Disorder commonly referred to as simply “Depression” is a very common and serious medical illness affecting about 1 in 6 people every year. Depression can not only negatively alter how you feel, but also the way you think and interact with the world and people around you. Because life is not perfect we have all experienced the sadness that follows disappointment and grief. However, depression is more than just feeling down or having a bad day. When a sad mood lasts for a long time and interferes with normal, everyday functioning, mental health professionals begin to assess for major depression.
Unfortunately, an estimated two-thirds cases of depression are undiagnosed. Left undiagnosed and thus untreated, depression can worsen and significantly diminish quality of life. At its worse depression can also lead to suicide which is why education and awareness is so important.
How To Observe National Depression Education and Awareness Month
Reach out
One of the most ideal ways to observe this awareness month is to reach out and connect with friends, family, and those in your community. Providing a listening ear, comforting hug, empathetic space, and asking questions while withholding judgment can go a long way to let others know you care.
Share your story
If you have experience with depression rather it be personal or a loved one don’t be afraid to share your story. Depression is extremely common, by sharing your experience you may unknowingly help someone with their struggles. Letting others know that they are not alone can be very encouraging.
Educate yourself
Education is key! One of the best ways you can help yourself (and those around you) is to learn about common symptoms and effects of depression. The more you know, the better you can recognize when someone may need your love and support.
Educate others
As you educate yourself it is important to also encourage those around you about depression awareness. You can share interesting but insightful content on about depression on social media and/or other educational materials with your family and friends.
Why National Depression Education and Awareness Month Is Important
It sparks conversations
Talking about depression helps to removing the stigma surrounding it and other mental health conditions. In 2020, 21 million adults had at lease one depressive episode, help normalize depression through open conversation. You can also chat with those in your community use hashtags like #depressionawareness - #DepressionEducation&AwarenessMonth - #normalizementalhealth on social media to start the conversation.
It encourages others to reach out
No one should have to cope with depression alone. By being open about the signs and symptoms of depression, and erasing the shame, we can encourage others to speak to a trusted friend, parent, doctor, or therapist about what they’re experiencing.
It ignites national change
Countless celebrities, politicians, and everyday people alike struggle with depression on a daily basis. As such, this opens many doors to change. Donating to a depression support group/organization, joining an awareness walk (such as NAMI), and following celebrity mental health advocates on social media (such as Lady Gaga, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson and Taraji P Henson) can help us change the way our culture thinks about and responds to depression.
Get Screened October 6th
If you or someone you know has been struggling with sadness, get screened. October 6th is National Depression Screening Day. Like screenings for other illnesses, depression screenings should become a routine part of your health care. Mental Health America offers an online depression screening tool. Please note this tool is not meant to diagnose depression. However, the tool is intended to help people who feel they may be affected by a depressive disorder to start a conversation with their doctor or trusted individuals about their mental health.
If you or a loved one is dealing with unchecked sadness and are looking for an attentive, empathetic and knowledgeable psychiatric provider request a consultation today.
Dr. Moore looks forward to discussing how the psychcierge lifestyle can get you on the road to mental prosperity.
