Depression at a Glance

This short video below tells the story of writer and illustrator Matthew Johnstone’s depression and how he overcame it. 

It was produced by Matthew, in collaboration with the World Health Organization, to mark World Mental Health Day 2012.

I had a black dog, his name was depression

Source: WHO

This short video below is a guide for partners, carers and sufferers of depression. 

It provides advice for those living with and caring for people with depression on what to do, what not to do, and where to go for help.

Living with a black dog

Source: WHO

Living with a black dog was produced by writer and illustrator Matthew Johnstone, in collaboration with the World Health Organization.

Source: WHO

What is Depression:

• Depression is an illness characterized by persistent sadness and a loss of interest in activities that you normally enjoy, accompanied by an inability to      carry out daily activities, for at least two weeks.
• In addition, people with depression normally have several of the following: a loss of energy; a change in appetite; sleeping more or less; anxiety; reduced concentration; indecisiveness; restlessness; feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or hopelessness; and thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
• Something that can happen to anybody.
• Not a sign or weakness.
• Treatable, with talking therapies or antidepressant medication or a combination of these.

What you can do if you think you are depressed

• Talk to someone you trust about your feelings. Most people feel better after      talking to someone who cares about them.
• Seek professional help. Your local health-care worker or doctor is a good place to start.
• Remember that with the right help, you can get better.
• Keep up with activities that you used to enjoy when you were well.
• Stay connected. Keep in contact with family and friends.
• Exercise regularly, even if it’s just a short walk.
• Stick to regular eating and sleeping habits.
• Accept that you might have depression and adjust your expectations. You may not be able to accomplish as much as you do usually.
• Avoid or restrict alcohol intake and refrain from using illicit drugs; they can worsen depression.
• If you feel suicidal, contact someone for help immediately.

Remember: 

Depression can be treated. If you think you have depression, seek help.

WHO have developed a set of posters Depression: Let's talk for use in campaign activities and beyond.

Each poster depicts a conversation between two people about depression: 

A mother and daughter

Source: WHO

A mother with her young baby and a health-care worker

Source: WHO

A student and teacher

Source: WHO

Two men at work

Source: WHO

An older women with a younger woman

Source: WHO

Cultural variations will soon be available for each scenario.

Sources:

WHO - WHO Videos about Depression

WHO - Depression: What you should know

WHO - Global Health Days - Posters

WHO - Handouts on Depression