Be a Lifesaver!

• Depression ranks among the top three workplace concerns.
• Depression is not a personal weakness, it is a serious medical illness that negatively affects how one feels, thinks and acts.
• With depression there is deep feeling of sadness and a marked loss of interest in once pleasurable activities.
• Depressed individuals tend to feel helpless and hopeless and to blame themselves for having these feelings.
• People who are depressed may become overwhelmed and exhausted and may stop participating in their routine activities.
• People with depression may withdraw from family and friends. Some may even have thoughts or death or suicide.

How can you help someone with depression?

• Depression is a highly treatable illness.
• People with depression cannot just "snap out" of their depression.
• Before a specific treatment is recommended, a diagnostic evaluation is done.
• Antidepressant medication and psychotherapy are common forms of treatment.
• Exercise has also been found to help ease the symptoms.
• If you know or love someone that exhibits symptoms of depression, do not try to diagnose the problem, suggest they consider talking to their doctor.
• Employees can also be referred to the Employee Assistance Program (x 6487).

References: American Psychiatric Association

Resources:

• American Psychiatric Association (APA) - www.healthyminds.org
  Website of the American Psychiatric Association includes fact sheets on variety of mental health topics, an Ask the Psychiatrist section, and links to other resources for depression.
• Mental Health America (MHA)- www.mentalhealthamerica.net
  MHA is the leading non-profit dedicated to helping all people live mentally healthier lives. Sorts information by topic, treatment, and audience. Includes frequently asked questions and medication information.
• ASSESSMENT TOOL: Link to www.depressionscreening.org for a depression screening test, personal stories, educational opportunities and additional sources of help.

Books:

• The Mindful Way Through Depression: Freeing Yourself from Chronic Unhappiness -with CD by Mark Williams & Jon Kabat-Zinn
  
  Easy to use, self help program based on clinically proven methods to reduce the recurrence of chronic unhappiness. Includes CD of guided meditations to help regain a sense of balance and contentment.
  
  
• Talking to Depression Simple Ways to Connect When Someone in Your Life is Depressed by Claudia Strauss
  
  Practical guide on how to deal with someone who is clinically depressed. Offers specific advice on what to do and what not to do, what to say and what not to say to avoid frustration and give the kind of caring and effective support that will make a difference.
  
  
• Depression for Dummies by Elliott & Smith
  
  Facts on depression, symptoms, medications, how to find professional help and tools to help defeat depression. Guide with strategies to help you make changes, find relief, and take charge of your life or help someone your love.

DVDS:

• Depression: What You Must Know by Michael Kuna, MD
  
  90 minute DVD divided into 12 chapters produced by clinical psychologist and psychiatrist. In an understandable manner, delivers information on the diagnostic process, successful treatments and safety concerns.