October 2-8 marks Mental Illness Awareness Week, an annual national public education campaign designed to help spread awareness and reduce stigma to the reality of mental illness. Established by the Canadian Psychiatric Association in 1992, it is now coordinated by the Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health in cooperation with its member organizations and many other supporters across Canada.
As part of MIAW’s goal of raising awareness of mental illness, this is the first of three articles submitted by Brock University Human Resources focusing on resources available to Brock staff and faculty through their benefits, as well as resources and supports in the broader Niagara community.
Mood Disorders (Bipolar and Depression)
People casually use the phrase, “I’m so depressed” to let others know that they are feeling down. But a temporary case of the blues — something we all experience — has nothing to do with real depression. True depression is not the blues, sadness or even grief. It is an overwhelming and enveloping despair so bleak and dark that people who have experienced it say that it is the worst pain they have ever endured. Depression is a treatable mental illness. Eight per cent of Canadians will experience a major depression in their lifetime. Young people are particularly affected with 20 per cent experiencing an episode of depression before the age of 20.
The following links will provide you with more information on understanding Anxiety and the valuable resources and supports available in the Niagara community.
Mood Disorders Society of Canada
Mood Disorders Support Group of the Niagara Region
Senior’s Wellness Group – Niagara Region
For additional resources or to contact Health Management & Wellness, please visit them on Sharepoint.
