Talking about mental health is important

Depression has a negative effect on emotions, thoughts and well-being. 

It is a medical illness. There is help.

Talk to a health care provider if you 

• Feel sad 
• No longer enjoy things 
• Feel worthless 
• Have trouble sleeping or lack energy 
• Think about harming yourself 

Patient infographic

Facts about depression 

• 10% of people without bipolar disorders will have depression in their lifetime
• Depression has increased in Canadians aged 15 + since 2012 
• People with childhood trauma, chronic disease, who are Indigenous, LGBTQ2+ or with substance use disorders at higher risk 
• Depression is often diagnosed, managed, and treated in primary care

The Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care recommends patients aged 18+ talk to their health care providers about depression rather than undergo routine screening with standard tools, like questionnaires.

Why? 

• Studies show that a blanket approach to screening for depression in every adult has little or no benefit 
• Individual conversations with your health care provider are better 

Takeaway

• Talk about your feelings or ask for help 
• If you have symptoms or have been diagnosed with depression, a healthcare provider can talk with you about help and treatment 

Find Help  

• 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline
• Canada.ca Mental health support: Get help 
• Quebec mental health (Santé mentale)