October Is Depression Awareness Month

Depression Awareness In October, we are seeing pink ribbons everywhere, in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We strongly support increased public awareness and funding for this illness that has devastated so many individuals and families.

But we'd like to add another color to the mix this month -- namely, green. For millions of people, a green ribbon represents another devastating illness -- depression. October is also Depression Awareness Month. Like those who don pink in October, the green ribbon of depression awareness asks individuals to recognize signs and symptoms of a disease, promote funding in research and treatment, and be aware of the importance of screening.

In the fall of the year, as the days shorten, it seems only fitting that October is a time to reflect on depression, as well as other forms of mental illness. During October, individuals around the world commemorate the following: ADHD Awareness Month; Mental Illness Awareness Week, National Depression Screening Day, World Mental Health Day, OCD Awareness Week, and National Bipolar Awareness Day.

We encourage our readers to check out a few facts and figures about depression at one of the websites listed below:

If you're not already, become educated about the signs and symptoms of depression and suicidal risk. If you believe that you may be experiencing depression, screening is available through mental health centers and physician's offices.

Most importantly, please remember: depression is treatable.