DAWN 2011 - Press Release

Media Release

Aware: Sometimes it’s easier to type than to talk
Depression Awareness Week 17th-23rd January 2011


Aware’s Depression Awareness Week (DAWN) 2011 takes place this week from 17th January, and the organisation is highlighting its new online support group service, which it believes will help to overcome some of the barriers to help-seeking, especially among young people and males. The theme of this year’s campaign is 'Sometimes it’s easier to type than to talk'.

The online support groups are available on aware.ie and are completely confidential. They offer a safe, supportive environment where people with depression, or relatives, can talk through their particular concerns and explore options that are available to them. Speaking at the launch, Kevin Smyth, Aware's Chief Executive said: "We are very ambitious for this new online support group service. We know that there are a number of barriers which prevent some people from seeking help via more traditional methods: these include fear of face-to-face communication; difficulty expressing oneself vocally; distance from services. People can now benefit from peer support and learn coping skills for managing depression from the safety and comfort of their own home."

Mental health is a particularly important issue given the continuing economic climate, especially in light of the large increase in the number of suicides in Ireland in 2009*. Levels of stress and anxiety do increase in a recession, and where other risk factors are present this can lead to a depressive episode: the risk of suicide also increases. Aware offers a number of support services for individuals and families affected by depression including: a loCall Helpline (1890 303 302) open 365 days a year; support groups in locations around the country, and an email support service. Online discussion forums were also launched in July 2010, offering people an opportunity to share concerns and ask questions.

Anyone who wishes to find out more about any of Aware’s services, including the new online support groups, can do so at aware.ie

Ends

Issued by: Aware
Contact: Sandra Hogan, PRO
Tel: 01 661 7211; email: sandra.hogan@aware.ie
Date: January 17th 2011


Notes
• The official number of suicides in Ireland in 2009 was 527, up 24% on 2008 (424).
• 80% were males (422).
• There was an increase in most age groups.
• The largest increase was in males between ages 30-44:
    o 40% increase in the figure for males aged 30-34 (52, up from 37);
    o 100% increase for males aged 35-39 (52, up from 26);
    o 62% increase for males aged 40-44 (44, up from 27)
• It is estimated that more than 400,000 people in Ireland experience depression at any one time. Depression can affect any one at any point in their life.
• In a recession, levels of stress and anxiety increase, and where there are other risk factors for depression, it can lead to a depressive episode. Suicide rates usually increase in a recession.
• It is estimated that up to 80% of suicides can be traced back to unrecognised or untreated depression, although depression is actually a very treatable illness.

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