Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses to affect teenagers and adults. Raising depression awareness can help defeat the stigma of the illness and can also help people suffering from it to reach out and get the help that they need to defeat it.
Here are five ways you can help raise depression awareness:
1. Talk about it. Talk about how many people are affected by the disease and let people know that there are treatment options available.
2. Address the myths. If you hear someone propagating myths about depression, be sure to speak up kindly but firmly.
3. Share online mental health screening at fsap.miami.edu. Complete an anonymous online self-assessment to check in on your mental well-being and receive resources for available support.
4. Know the signs and symptoms of depression. Telling others about what types of behaviors and feelings can characterize depression can encourage them to get help for themselves or their loved ones.
5. Reach out to a friend/family in need. If you have a friend who you suspect is suffering from depression, reach out to them. Don’t avoid them because it makes you uncomfortable.
