What makes October so special apart from the fact that it has the best colors that welcomes autumn, and transitions to winter. It is also the month that celebrates variety of festivals across culture and across the world. Well, from a health perspective, it is one of the most important month, called the Depression Awareness Month. The importance of this month on the onset of winter makes it even more significant, as the winter season is often associated with depression, due to SAD or Seasonal Affective Disorder, this is a type of depression related to the change of season that mostly begins in fall or winter. Common symptoms include persistent sadness, low energy, and a loss of interest in activities. In the US, the month is recognized as National depression Awareness Month and the origin is rooted in a larger, ongoing effort to combat mental health stigma. While there is no one founding event, the designation has grown from initiatives like the World Mental Health Day, which falls on October 10, and began in 1992 by the Federation for Mental Health. It was designed to raise global awareness on mental health. The month-long campaigns were deigned to educate the public, encourage conversations around the subject, as well as provide resources for those who are depressed. In the US, the Mental Health America, played a significant role in establishing mental health awareness initiatives. What Is Happening In The US?As per America's Health Rankings, out of 48 states with data on mental health, West Virginia had the highest rate of depression in the nation, with around 31% people suffering from a depressive disorder. In 2021, an estimates 14.5 million US adults aged 18 or older had at least one major depressive episode with severe impairment in the past years notes the National Institute of Mental Health, US. Major depression, notes Mental Health America, is one of the most common mental illnesses, affecting more than 8% or 21 million of American adults each year.Dr Ahmed Faheem, who is a psychiatrist with Appalachian Psychiatric Services, told 59 News, "Just lending a helping hand, opening up the dialogue, talking to them, especially in this depressive event and, you know, it is really important to be aware and look around. You may find a colleague that you might have thought if everything is okay, might open up to you and say, 'I'm glad you asked'."Is There Anyone Prone To Depression?Depression can affect people across all ages, races, ethnicities, and genders. It is a serious mental illness, which may include any of the following signs and symptoms:Continued feelings of sadness, hopelessness, pessimism, emptinessFatigue, lack of energyChanges in eating or sleeping habitsAnxiety, irritability, restlessnessFeeling worthless or guiltyLoss of interest or joy in hobbies and activitiesPoor school performanceTearfulness or frequent cryingWithdrawal from friends and familyLack of enthusiasm and motivationTrouble concentrating, thinking clear, or making decisionsUnexplained aches and painsThoughts of deaths or suicide or self-harm behaviors
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