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Depression and Asking for Help

Depression is one of the most well known mental disorders.  If I walked out into the streets and asked someone what depression is I'm sure I would get a many varied responses.  Some of them would be accurate and some of them would not be, but everyone I asked would know the word.  According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 6.7% of adults in the US suffered from depression in 2016.  The World Health Organization (WHO) states that "globally more than 300 million people of all ages suffer from depression."  Also according to WHO, "Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide and is a major contributor to the overall global burden of disease."

Despite this information many people still suffer in silence.  There are many reasons why people do not reach out when they are in need, but most are associated with shame and the stigma of the disease.  This silence needs to be broken.  Those who suffer with depression and other mental illnesses need to feel comfortable asking for help.

Today I am posting a video from TED about depression.  Nikki Webber Allen speaks out about her story and why depression is not a sign of weakness. 



If you, or someone you know, are suffering from depression or from another mental illness, please reach out for help.  https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/


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