We are seeing high rates of depression as 2021 continues to unfold. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), more than two in five adults over 18 have experienced feelings of depression and anxiety at least once in the last seven days.
“Depression is a classic disorder of moods,” said Shelley Millsap, LPC, and Behavioral Health Manager of Columbine Behavioral Healthcare, an Axis Health System clinic in Durango. “Depression is not the blues. Someone who is diagnosed with depression can’t just snap out of it. It is not being weak-minded or faint-hearted. It isn’t a choice. It is just like having any other diagnosable ailment, like diabetes. You don’t choose to have it.”
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and that means lots of talking and sharing. We must talk about mental health, depression, anxiety and suicide. These can be tough topics for some people, but talking and listening is necessary to reduce stigma and open the door for healing and recovery.
Axis Health System’s Community Counseling Program (CCP) launched a Facebook livestream episode in May that features an open conversation about depression. You can watch the recorded episode here if you have an active Facebook account. In the 30-minute video, host Michaela Collins, CCP Communication Specialist, and Millsap cover the following topics related to depression:
- What is depression?
- What isn’t depression?
- What are the signs and symptoms of depressions?
- What are the causes of depression?
- What can depressive episodes feel like?
- How can you minimize the impact of depressive episodes?
- What can you do to treat depression?
- How is depression different in men, women, and children?
- How do I talk to my doctor, my loved ones, and myself about depression?
You are not alone. We’re here to help. Axis Health System therapists can help community members recognize signs and symptoms of depression. You can learn how to talk about it with your loved ones and healthcare professionals. For additional information about mental health treatment or to talk to behavioral health professional, please call the 24/7, no-cost, confidential, Axis 24/7 Care Line at 970.247.5245.
Need help now?
Our team can help you while you’re waiting for a scheduled visit. You don’t have to be in crisis. We are here for you day and night. Call the Axis 24/7 Care Line to talk about your mental health or substance use concerns. 970.247.5245. You will be quickly connected to local services and a team will respond immediately. Professional and compassionate care providers will answer your call 24 hours a day, seven days a week.