Depression Disconnect Resources

83% of those diagnosed with depression say life would be easier if others could understand
how depression made them feel
– 2021 GeneSight Mental Health Monitor Survey

For May’s Mental Health Awareness Month, the team at Myriad Mental Health, the makers of the GeneSight^® test, and Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) are teaming up to help bridge the depression understanding disconnect.

Together, we are working to raise awareness and understanding for how a person who has depression feels, and why it can be so hard to seek treatment.

If you are experiencing symptoms of depression or are looking to support a loved one with depression, below are several resources that may help.

Depression by the Numbers

Major depressive disorder affects approximately

17.3 million

American adults in a given year.

National Institute of Mental Health “Major Depression,” 2017

Major depressive disorder
is more prevalent in

women

than in men.

Journal of the American Medical Association, 2003; Jun 18; 289(23): 3095-105

Fewer than

40%

of people with depression achieve depression remission with their first medication.

“Acute and Longer-Term Outcomes in Depressed Outpatients Requiring One or Several Treatment Steps: A STAR*D Report,” 2006

Understanding Depression

Tools for Depression Treatment

Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) Wellness Tracker

Tracking how you are feeling each day can be helpful to understand your overall mood and state of well-being. If you live with depression, understanding the changes in your mood, interactions of medications, substance use, nutritional intake, and exercise, will help you gain more insight into what works best for your personal wellness.

DBSA Wellness Wheel

The Wellness Wheel is an easy-to-use tool that provides a complete picture of the progress you’ve made in your wellness journey. As you create your own wheel, you will see your strengths in perspective and discover ways to move toward the life you want to live.

DBSA Wellness Wheel

The Wellness Wheel is an easy-to-use tool that provides a complete picture of the progress you’ve made in your wellness journey. As you create your own wheel, you will see your strengths in perspective and discover ways to move toward the life you want to live.

GeneSight Genetic Testing

The GeneSight test analyzes how your genes may affect medication outcomes. Results can inform your doctor about how you may break down or respond to certain medications commonly prescribed to treat depression, anxiety, and other psychiatric conditions.

The test is a simple cheek swab taken in your healthcare provider’s office or sent by your doctor to be taken in the convenience of your home.

Find tips for talking to your provider here.

Depression & Bipolar Support Alliance Support Groups

Find a local support group

Find an online support group

Resources for Caregivers

Each person experiences a mood disorder differently, with different symptoms. Learn how you can offer support, understanding, and hope.

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