Did You Know?

The federal government has designated October as National Depression Education and Awareness Month to better educate and inform the public about the causes, treatments and realities of living with depression. False beliefs about mental illness can cause significant problems, so it is important to learn what you can do about stigma— negative attitudes and beliefs toward people who have a mental health condition are common.

Some of the harmful effects of stigma can include:

• Reluctance to seek help or treatment
• Lack of understanding by family, friends, co-workers or others you know
• Fewer opportunities for work, school or social activities or trouble finding housing
• Bullying, physical violence or harassment
• Health insurance that doesn't adequately cover your mental illness treatment
• The belief that you'll never be able to succeed at certain challenges or that you can't improve your situation

Depression can occur in people with or without a family history of depression. Certain people are more prone to depression, including those who tend to be pessimistic and are readily overwhelmed by stress. A serious loss, difficult relationship, financial problem or any unwelcome, or even desired, change in life patterns can trigger a depressive episode. Very often, a combination of genetic, psychological and environmental factors is involved in the onset of a depressive disorder.

There are many types of depression and variations in the number of symptoms, their severity and persistence. Symptoms and signs of depression include:

• Persistent sad, anxious or "empty" mood
• Restlessness and irritability
• Feelings of hopelessness and pessimism
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness and helplessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure gained from former hobbies and interests
• Fatigue and decreased energy
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering and making decisions
• Insomnia and oversleeping
• Weight loss or overeating
• Persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders and chronic pain
• Thoughts of death or suicide

The most important thing anyone can do for a depressed person is to help him or her receive an appropriate diagnosis and treatment. This may involve encouragement to stay with treatment until symptoms begin to abate, or to seek different treatment if no improvement occurs. On occasion, it may include making an appointment and accompanying the depressed person to the doctor or monitoring whether the depressed person is taking medication.

It is also important to offer emotional support. Demonstrate understanding, patience, affection and encouragement. Engage the depressed person in conversation and listen carefully. Do not disparage feelings expressed, but point out realities and offer hope. Because of the stigma of mental illness, people who are depressed may mistakenly believe that their condition is a sign of personal weakness or that they should be able to control it without help. Encourage them to seek help and to avoid destructive self-judgment. Treatment can help identify what is wrong and reduce symptoms that might interfere with productive lives.

Each individual can choose to speak out against the stigma of mental illness. This expression of support can help instill courage in those with depression or who are facing similar challenges as well as educate the public about mental illness.

Negative judgments almost always stem from a lack of understanding rather than information based on the facts. Learning about depression and helping educate others can make a big difference.