Mental Health South Delta

The Delta Division of Family Practice represents family physicians in the communities of Ladner and Tsawwassen.

Depression Awareness

Depression is a common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think and how you act. Fortunately, it is also treatable. Depression causes feelings of sadness and/or a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed. It can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and can decrease a person’s ability to function at work and at home.

Depression symptoms can vary from mild to severe and can include:

  • Feeling sad or having a depressed mood

  • Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed

  • Changes in appetite – weight loss or gain unrelated to dieting

  • Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much

  • Loss of energy or increased fatigue

  • Increase in purposeless physical activity (e.g., hand-wringing or pacing) or slowed movements and speech (actions observable by others)

  • Feeling worthless or guilty

  • Difficulty thinking, concentrating or making decisions

  • Thoughts of death or suicide

Symptoms must last at least two weeks for a diagnosis of depression

Who Is Affected?

Depression affects people from all walks of life, regardless of age or background.

Resources For Those Experiencing Depression

Child and Youth Depression Resources: Depression is one of the most common mental health illnesses, affecting about 11% per cent of Canadian aged 15 to 24.

Adult Depression Resources: Approximately 8% of adults will experience major depression at some time in their lives

Where to get help

Kids Help Phone – 1 800 668 6868 (Phone), Live Chat (online chat counselling) – visit https://kidshelpphone.ca/

Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention: Find a 24-hour crisis centre

Depression Awarenes - Mental Health Delta Division

Mental Health Delta Division

Please visit out contact resource page for a full list of help lines, programs and websites.