In the US alone, depression affects more than 21 million people every year. Depression is still poorly understood with many people assuming that it’s just a low mood. However, in reality, depression is a serious condition that can impact everyday life and lead to suicide in extreme cases. So, we had to ask: What is the most important information you need to know about this year’s Depression Awareness Month?

👉 Official Name: Depression Awareness Month
💚 Cause: Increase understanding of depression and tackle the stereotypes surrounding the condition
📅 Next Date: October 1-31, 2025
🐦 Hashtag: #DepressionAwareness

Keep on reading to find out all the important information about Depression Awareness Month at a glance, including its big picture, why it’s important, and how you can get involved. We’ll then share its brief history, three interesting facts about it, its future dates, and how you’ll never miss any important awareness event again.

The Most Important Information About Depression Awareness Month at a Glance

1️⃣ The big picture: Depression Awareness Month is marked throughout October every year to raise public awareness of the effects of depression on sufferers and to improve public understanding of the condition, as well as erase associated stereotypes. Many organizations also use this month to raise funds for research in order to find more effective treatments and improve access to mental health services, particularly in low-income countries and rural areas where mental health support is often lacking. 

2️⃣ Why it is important: Globally, an estimated 5% of adults suffer from depression and the condition is a leading cause of illness and disability among adolescents. In contrast to public opinion, depression is not just a bout of sadness. It is an intense shift in mood for long periods of time that causes you to lose interest in activities and affects every aspect of daily life, from relationships to education and performing daily tasks. 

3️⃣ How you can get involved: You can get involved in Depression Awareness Month by raising funds for research, reaching out to someone in need, or spreading awareness through social media:

1. Raise funds: The causes of depression are complex. In addition, there is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to treatment. So, research is still ongoing to improve our understanding of depression and formulate better treatments. To help out, consider setting up a fundraising event in your community or donating to a charity that fights depression. 
2. Reach out: Do you know someone who is struggling with depression? Often, the simple knowledge of having someone in their lives that supports and understands them can be a comfort. So, ask them out for a drink and a chat or simply ask if there is anything they need. Let them know you are there for them. If you struggle with depression yourself, tell your story on social media or other means to raise awareness of the condition.
3. Spread awareness: Use your social media platforms for good by spreading information and understanding of depression – the more people you can reach the better. 

Below are our favorite charities that are especially relevant for Depression Awareness Month:

• Best Charities That Fight Depression
• Best Charities That Advance Mental Health

A Brief History of Depression Awareness Month

When was this event established: Depression Awareness Month, also known as National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month, was founded in 1994 by the US Congress to address the urgent need for increased understanding and awareness of depression. The month was chosen because there was a consensus that as the days get shorter, it’s the perfect time to reflect on our mental health, particularly after the busy summer period. 

How has it developed since then: Just like people are encouraged to wear pink during October to raise awareness of breast cancer, Depression Awareness Month also encourages us to wear green to show our support for people suffering from depression. Since the founding of Depression Awareness Month, our understanding of depression has improved, but there is still a lot of work that needs to be done to tackle the stigma surrounding the condition. 

3 Interesting Facts About Depression Awareness Month

1. Causes of depression: The causes of depression are varied, making it very difficult to determine if someone is susceptible to developing the condition. Just some of the potential causes include past trauma, genetics, lifestyle changes such as a change in living situation, and physical health. 
2. The importance of self-care: In our busy, modern lives, self-care can often take a backseat when it comes to our priorities. However, simple acts of self-care are essential for overall well-being and can even help manage the symptoms of depression. So, make sure you carve out time to do something that makes you feel better such as taking a long bath, going for a walk, or trying mindfulness. 
3. The history of depression: The term ‘depression’ is derived from the Latin word ‘deprimere’ meaning “to press down.” It was first used in 1665 by English author Richard Baker, referring to someone having “a great depression of spirit”. However, melancholia was still the preferred term used to describe someone with depression until the 19^th century, when the term depression became a common synonym in medical fields. 

Upcoming Dates of Depression Awareness Month

Depression Awareness Month is observed every year throughout October.

Never Miss an Awareness Event Again

Sources

• Mental Health America: Depression
• Medical News Today: Depression Awareness Month
• National Institute of Mental Health: Depression
• Healthline: 9 Depression Myths
• BMJ Journals: Towards integrated mental health services in low-income and middle-income countries
• World Health Organization: Depression
• World Health Organization: Mental health of adolescents
• Impactful Ninja: 9 Best Charities That Fight Depression
• Impactful Ninja: 9 Best Charities That Advance Mental Health
• Congress.Gov: Home page
• Perry Wellness Center: October is Depression Awareness Month
• Our World in Data: Depression is complicated
• Mind: Self-care for depression
• Wikipedia: History of depression
• Wikipedia: Melancholia