Understand how to recognize and treat depression

The Faculty and Staff Assistance Program will be offering webinars during October’s Depression Awareness Month. Enhance your capacity to recognize, treat, and support those challenged by depression.
Understand how to recognize and treat depression

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, more than 17 million U.S. adults—more than 7 percent of the population—were affected with at least one major depressive episode in the past year. People of all ages, racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds experience depression.

Depression can present different symptoms, depending on the person. But for most people, depressive disorder changes how one functions day to day. Typically, the symptoms persist for more than two weeks and may include sleep disturbance, a change in appetite, lack of concentration, and hopelessness, to name a few.

Recommendations for managing symptoms of depression include the following.

  • Exercise or do some form of physical activity.
  • Eat a well-balanced diet. Food affects your mood.
  • Establish a regular sleep pattern.
  • Eliminate the use of alcohol and drugs.
  • Effectively modify your schedule and set small realistic goals.
  • Emphasize meaningful and positive aspects of your life.
  • Enhance your tribe. Have a social support system of family and friends.
  • Engage the help of a mental health professional. Contact the Faculty and Staff Assistance Program at 305-284-6604 if you are struggling with symptoms of depression.

Despite how it might feel to those experiencing it, there is no shame in suffering from depression. It is one of the most common mental illnesses in the United States.

The Faculty and Staff Assistance Program will be offering weekly wellness webinars during October’s Depression Awareness Month to create awareness, understanding, and reduce stigma. Register for a session by selecting a time below.

  • Understanding DepressionTuesday, Oct. 6, at noon and 6 pm
  • Change Your Thoughts and Your Mood will Follow Thursday, Oct. 15, at noon and 6 pm
  • Chair YogaTuesday, Oct. 20, at noon and 6 pm
  • Mindfulness and Self-Compassion—Tuesday, Oct. 27, at noon and 6 pm

Take a free mental health assessment.
Complete an anonymous online self-assessment to check your mental well-being or visit fsap.miami.edu and find resources for available support.

UM students seeking mental health or depression resources can visit the Counseling Center