January 21, often referred to as ‘Blue Monday,’ has been claimed to be the most depressing day of the year. It has become a day that people around the world recognize the issues surrounding depression. One of those issues is the stigma that surrounds depression and mental illness in general. Instead of focusing on the claim that today is the most depressing day of the year, let’s do something simple to raise our spirits and learn more about depression in Canada. By being better informed, all of us can remove the stigma and be better equipped to help those we encounter who may struggle with depression.
If nothing else, we ask that you take a few minutes and consider these facts about depression in Canada. You’ll also find some links and information about where you can get help locally if you or someone you know needs it.
Almost half of people with depression never speak to a doctor
According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, 49% of adults who have lived with anxiety or depression have never seen a doctor about the problem. Often times, depression acts as a downward spiral. Those who face it may feel worthlessness or have a harder time overcoming barriers caused by the stigma associated with depression. They may be told by well-meaning individuals that they just need to tough it out, go outside more, look on the bright side, etc. For many, mental health is still seen as something we must face alone, as individuals, and if we don’t, we’re seen as weak.
There’s more to depression than being sad
People living with depression aren’t just really sad. Depression also causes feelings of guilt, troubles sleeping, and changes to appetite. Many even lost interest in their favorite activities. Depression often takes away most, if not all, of the tools many of us use to cope with the issues we face.
Challenge for new moms
Postpartum depression is very real and quite common. According to a 2014 report published by the Government of Canada, 7.5% of women experience it. Far too many may see this as a character flaw; some may even think it makes them a bad mother.
Challenges for youth
1 in 5 Canadian youth who need mental health services don’t receive them. For some, this may be caused by a lack of accessibility to services. Others might be held up by fears of what their peers may think if they’re seen seeking help. It’s on us to change things. Not only is it ok to seek help when you have a physical illness, it’s encouraged and often commended. It’s time we treat mental health the same way.
Effective Help is available
If you’re struggling with depression, speak to your doctor. Your doctor can explain the many treatment options that might be available to you and can help you work out what will be best for you individually. Once recognized, 80% of people who receive help for depression are able to get back to regular activities. If you don’t have a family doctor or feel you can’t approach them for any reason, please see the resources listed below.
Where to find help
While we suggest contacting your family physician, here are some of the other services that are available to you. These are only a few of the many services available in Windsor-Essex. Please note that many of these services are based out of Windsor, but some provide outreach services here in Amherstburg. For more information, please, call our office today and we would be happy to speak with you to help find an option that best meets your needs.
Canadian Mental Health Association – Windsor Essex
Address: 1400 Windsor Ave., Windsor, Ont., N8X 3L9
Telephone: (519) 255 7440
Windsor-Essex Teen Health Centre
Address: 1361 Ouellette Ave. #101, Windsor, Ont., N8X 1J6
*Services Available at our office in Amherstburg
Telephone: (519) 253 8481
BANA (Bulimia Anorexia Nervosa Association)
Address: 1500 Ouellette Ave. Suite 100, Windsor Ont., N8X 1K7
Telephone: (519) 969 2112
Family Services Windsor Essex
Address: 1770 Langlois Ave., Windsor, Ont., N8X 4M5
*Services Available at our office in Amherstburg
Telephone: (519) 966 5010
This post includes information from the following sources: