Mental illness awareness has taken centre stage globally thanks to the influential people talking about it. In the UK, the young royals are championing the cause, while Canada has celebrities like Jim Carrey and Ryan Reynolds who chose to #getloud about mental illness.

It is vital to know that this mental illness is treatable. As the stigma of mental illness is addressed, more people are seeking help and receiving treatment.

Depression Defined

According to the Mood Disorders Society of Canada, “True depression is not the blues, sadness or even grief. It is an overwhelming despair so bleak that people who have experienced it say that it is the worst pain they have ever endured.”

Causes of Depression

Depression can be triggered by one or a combination of major events and genetic predisposition to the disease. Even good events such as starting a new job or getting married can lead to depression. Much has been reported on post partum depression, the feeling of disconnect that affects 1 in 7 new mothers.

Who is Affected by Depression?

Even new dads can show signs of postpartum depression. This mental illness knows no gender, age or socioeconomic standing.

What Medications are Generally Prescribed for Depression?

Selective Serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most commonly prescribed class of antidepressants.

They include, citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro), fluvoxamine (Luvox), paroxetine (Paxil), Prozac, and sertraline (Zoloft).

Easing Depression Naturally

Herbs and supplements can be used to assist with depression, these include St Johns Wort, Ginseng, chamomile, lavender, saffron and omega-3 fatty acids.

St John’s wort has been linked with increased serotonin in the body this has not been passed by the FDA and St Johns wort is known for interacting with a lot of other medications so needs to be checked with your doctor.

Eating fish 3 times a week can increase levels of omega-3 fatty acids without the aid of supplements.

There is much to still learn about this mental illness and how it affects people in different ways. With

World Mental Health Day 10/10 we are given the opportunity to reflect and share experiences and let suffers know that they are not alone.