Mental Health Week, 9-15 October 2011
Depression and anxiety don't discriminate. Do you?
Depression and anxiety can affect anyone at any time but often, people won't talk about how they're feeling because they're worried what others will think.
Don't let discrimination and stigma stop you, or someone else, from getting help.
Depression and anxiety can affect people's thoughts, mood, behaviour and physical health. They are common illnesses - around one million Australian adults have depression and two million have an anxiety disorder. If it's not you, it could be someone you know.
People with depression and anxiety need to talk to a doctor or other health professional to get appropriate treatment.
beyondblue Acting CEO Clare Shann is encouraging everyone to make an effort during Mental Health Week, to help break down the stigma associated with depression and anxiety.
"This year, we will be aligning our awareness-raising efforts with Mental Health Week, which runs from Sunday 9 October to Saturday 15 October. Mental Health Week is a national awareness event, held every October and incorporates World Mental Health Day (Monday 10 October).
"During Mental Health Week, we are asking everyone - individuals, community groups, schools and workplaces - to help raise awareness of depression and anxiety, and reduce the associated stigma. beyondblue information materials that can be displayed in workplaces, schools or community centres during Mental Health Week can be ordered via the beyondblue website from September," says Clare.
Get the facts about depression and anxiety at www.beyondblue.org.au or call 1300 22 4636.
For more information on how to get involved with Mental Health Week, go to beyondblue: the national depression initiative - Share our newsletter article for Mental Health Week 2011
Paula C. Whitehouse for A Scarlet Rope of Hope
