Supporting Loved Ones During National Depression Education And Awareness Month

National Depression Education and Awareness Month is observed every October. It coincides with Mental Illness Awareness Week, which generally takes place in the first week of the month. Throughout October, various individuals, organizations, and communities can come together to raise awareness for depression, potentially promoting education and understanding. This month can serve as an opportunity to start meaningful conversations, reduce stigma, promote awareness, and offer resources to those affected by depression. If you or a loved one is living with this mental health disorder, consider reaching out to a licensed therapist for professional support.

Not sure how to best support your loved ones?

A licensed therapist can help

The purpose of National Depression Education and Awareness Month

National Depression Education and Awareness Month was established to address the pressing need for increased awareness and understanding of depression. Highlighting the prevalence of depression within our communities during this month can reinforce the need for stable and efficient healthcare systems that can address symptoms, provide accessible treatments, and offer compassionate support. 

This awareness month can also encourage people to support their friends, family, and fellow community members who may be struggling with depression. By starting discussions around mental health and challenging societal misconceptions, it can be possible to create a supportive environment for those affected by depression.

Mental health screenings to identify depression

Mental health screenings can be great resources for depression awareness, offering a systematic assessment of an individual’s mental well-being. Screenings typically use questionnaires and interviews to gain insight into individuals’ mental, physical, and emotional health and assess for symptoms and risk factors of depression. By identifying potential signs of depression early on, screenings can enable timely intervention, which can lead to improved health outcomes.

National Depression Screening Day usually takes place during early October, highlighting the importance of early intervention and showing people how to make use of mental health screenings. Mental health screenings can be convenient, with various options available online and in person. Many healthcare providers offer screenings as part of routine check-ups or upon request, while online platforms can provide accessible screening tools for individuals to self-assess their mental health. 

Ways to raise education and awareness for depression

• Join rallies and campaigns: Participate in community rallies and awareness campaigns dedicated to promoting mental health education and reducing the stigma surrounding depression. 
• Community events and support group sessions: Engage in community events and support group sessions that facilitate open conversations about depression. 
• Learning opportunities: Take advantage of learning opportunities, such as seminars, workshops, and educational resources available in person and online. These platforms can offer valuable insights into depression and its symptoms, treatments, and coping strategies, which can empower individuals to become advocates for mental health awareness.
• Board game and trivia nights: Organize board game nights or trivia events with friends, family, or colleagues, incorporating mental health themes and discussions about depression. These interactive activities may provide a lighthearted yet impactful way to increase awareness and promote conversations about mental health in a relaxed setting. 
• Fundraisers: Host or join fundraisers like fun runs, bake sales, or charity events to raise funds for organizations dedicated to supporting individuals affected by depression. 

How to support loved ones with depression

If you discover that somebody in your life is living with depression, it can be important to approach them with compassion, empathy, and support. 

Engage in active listening: Active listening generally refers to listening without judgment and offering a supportive, empathetic, and compassionate ear. Sometimes, people struggling with depression aren’t looking for solutions to their problems but simply want to be heard.

Encourage professional help: This can be especially relevant if you are particularly close with somebody struggling with depression and they understand that you want the best for them. You can offer support by encouraging loved ones to seek professional support and helping them find a compassionate and knowledgeable mental health professional. You can even accompany them to appointments if needed. 

For individuals who are hesitant to attend therapy sessions in person, you might suggest they try online therapy, which can often be customized to their comfort level. Individuals can schedule sessions at times that fit into their existing routine, attend appointments from the location of their choice, and choose between video, phone, and online chat options.

A large body of evidence supports the notion that online therapy can be an effective treatment for depression and various other mental health challenges and conditions.

Provide practical support: Often, those with depression may find it difficult to keep up with regular chores and household responsibilities. You can alleviate some of the burdens of daily life by helping your loved one with cooking, cleaning, or running errands. These simple gestures can give people more time and freedom to prioritize their mental health. 

Engage in altruism together: If a loved one with depression is experiencing low energy and a lack of motivation, helping others may take their mind off their own difficulties and lift their spirits. Research shows that altruism is often linked with increased well-being, happiness, and health, although updated evidence may be needed. 

Not sure how to best support your loved ones?

A licensed therapist can help

Offer emotional support and reassurance: Be a source of emotional support and reassurance for your loved one during difficult times. Offer words of encouragement, love, and affirmation to boost their spirits and remind them of their worth.

Prioritize self-care: Remember to prioritize your own well-being as you support your loved one with depression, whether it’s through self-care activities like yoga, exercise, spa days, or seeking support from friends. Taking care of yourself may enable you to be a stronger and more effective source of support for your loved ones.