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
