WARRINGTON Borough Council is supporting a campaign to get people talking about depression and help reduce the stigma attached to the condition.
This year Depression Awareness Week runs from April 18-24 and the charity Depression Alliance is asking people to join the campaign and help reduce stigma by getting friends and colleagues talking about depression.
Depression is common. It affects about one in 10 people at some point in their lives.
Unhappiness is something everyone feel now and again, but depression is different from feeling low or sad. People experiencing depression often have intense emotions of anxiety, hopelessness and negativity; these feelings will stay with them over time, rather than fading.
Steve Reddy (pictured), the borough council’s executive director families and wellbeing, said: “Depression can affect anyone, of any age. If anyone thinks that they, or someone they know might be experiencing depression then it’s important to ask for help. The first step towards getting support or treatment would usually be to visit their GP.
“The GP can discuss their symptoms and explain the range of treatment and support available.”
More information about depression, self-help techniques and local and national organizations which offer information or support, can be found at Warrington’s Mental Health Awareness site www.happyoksad.org.uk
The site was developed by the council’s public health team to enable people to easily find information about mental health issues and the local support services that are available to them.
For more information about Depression Awareness Week visit:
www.depressionalliance.org/get-involved/depression-awareness-week-2016
