beyondblue’s Anxiety and Depression Awareness Month each October is a chance for people from all walks of life to raise awareness of depression and anxiety – and to help reduce the stigma that can often prevent people from getting help. 

Now in its fourth year, Anxiety and Depression Awareness Month has become an important mental health awareness event in Australia’s health calendar. There are lots of ways to get involved and, as always, materials are free.

beyondblue: the national depression initiative CEO Leonie Young says: “Anxiety and Depression Awareness Month is a great opportunity for people to find out more about the signs and symptoms of anxiety and depression, and where  to get help.

“Given that around one million people in Australia live with depression and a further two million have an anxiety disorder, yet less than half seek help, there’s a fundamental need to encourage people to talk openly about their mental health.

“We hope that everyone will take the opportunity to spread the message during Anxiety and Depression Awareness Month that it’s OK to talk about how you’re feeling, that support and effective treatments are available and no one needs to try to get better on their own.”

There are many ways schools, workplaces and individuals can become involved with Anxiety and Depression Awareness Month.

Here are some ideas:

At home 

  • Wear a beyondblue wristband during October
  • Take a beyondblue carry bag with you when you are shopping
  • Put a beyondblue magnet on the fridge
  • Encourage your family and friends to keep active – organise a group walk, bike ride or game in the park.

At work, school or in the community 

  • Become a workplace, school or community group organiser for beyondblue Anxiety and Depression Awareness Month. Free Organiser Kits can be ordered online now
  • Organise a blue-themed day or event and screen the beyondblue DVD Stories of Hope and Recovery
  • Display beyondblue awareness posters on your staff and school noticeboard, in your local community centre or club, or other community group space
  • Order beyondblue Awareness Kits for your school or workplace
  • Use a beyondblue mouse mat throughout the year – it’s a great way to remind people that it is OK to talk about anxiety and depression every day.

To order your free Anxiety and Depression Awareness Month Kit or materials, visit www.beyondblue.org.au/adamonth or call the beyondblue info line on 1300 22 4636.

Editor Dr Ramesh Manocha.

 Source: youthbeyondblue