Depression

What is depression?

Feeling down sometimes is normal, but depression is more than just feeling sad or having a bad day. Depression is a mental illness that affects how you think, feel, and act. It can lead to emotional and physical problems, and it changes how we see ourselves, relate to others, and interact with the world.

Depression can be caused by a mix of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Big life events, like losing a loved one, a breakup, or high stress, can also trigger depression. Without treatment, depression can last a long time.

How do I know if I am depressed?

Signs of depression can include:

  • Constant sadness, feeling worthless, anger, or anxiety
  • Feelings of despair and hopelessness
  • Loss of energy and interest in things you once enjoyed
  • Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or learning new things
  • Changes in eating and sleeping patterns

The Canadian Mental Health Association says age and sex can affect how people experience depression. For example, young people and older adults might have lasting mood changes that others dismiss as just part of growing up or aging. Men may show irritability and anger instead of sadness, making it harder for others to notice their depression. Many new mothers suffer from some form of the “baby blues.” Postpartum depression is a longer-lasting depression triggered, in part, by hormonal changes associated with having a baby.

If you or someone you know has any of these symptoms and is worried it might be depression, reach out to a health-care provider right away.

How can I get help for depression?

Depression affects everyone differently, so the ways to feel better can vary too. The best approach often includes a combination of treatment, lifestyle changes, and support from others.

Ask for help

Start small by asking for help. Being alone can make depression worse, so try to connect with others. Talk to your health-care provider, family, friends, or peer support groups about how you’re feeling.

Seek professional help and treatment

There are many treatments for depression, including medication and counseling. Learning about your options will help you choose what works best for you.

Make healthy lifestyle choices

Your physical and mental health are connected. Eating well, exercising, getting enough rest, managing stress, doing things you enjoy, and building supportive relationships can all help improve your overall well-being.

Services related to this information:
  • Doorways: rapid ‘one session at a time’ counselling services.
  • Bridge the gapp
    Newfoundland and Labrador’s ‘go-to’ website for mental health information. Bridge the gapp offers self-help resources, links to local services, and invites people to share their personal stories. Bridge the gapp is free of cost and available to every resident in the province. The site is divided into adult and youth sections, however many services are appropriate for both.
  • Strongest Families Children and Youth Programs
    Free skill-based educational programs for children, youth, adults, and families seeking help to improve mental health and well-being.
  • Mental health and addictions services
  • Contact your Public Health Nurse
  • Contact your physician/nurse practitioner
  • 811 HealthLine (Newfoundland & Labrador) – Call 811 or 1-888-709-2929 / TTY 1-888-709-3555
    • 811 is free and confidential. 811 is available 24/7 and can provide support with mental health and addictions issues and more.
    • Services formerly offered by the Provincial Mental Health Crisis Line are now offered by 811. Call 811 to speak with a registered nurse who is also a trained crisis intervener.