Overview
Depression can make even small things like getting up, eating, or answering a text feel enormous. It is one of the most common mental health conditions and affects a person everywhere from their thoughts to daily functioning. It is categorized as ongoing sadness, loss of interest in activities they once found pleasure in, changes in sleep and/or appetite (too much or too little), and difficulty concentrating. It's a medical condition and can be treated with the right support.
This toolkit is built around small, doable steps: "tiny tasks" checklists, worksheets for the hard days, and reminders that you're not the only one who has felt this way. And if things feel heavy, telling someone is a brave and worthwhile step to take.
Educational Resources
Depressive Disorders
Learn about what depressive disorder is from the World Health Organization
Depression | National Institute of Mental Health
Find out more about depression through this website and an animated video by the National Institute of Mental Health.
Depression Overview
Johns Hopkins Medicine goes in-depth explaining the causes and treatment of depression
Printable PDFs
Online & Downloadable Guides
Videos
Audio Guides
Guided relaxation (audio)
Audio coming soon.
Images
Crisis lines for this toolkit
- Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- NAMI Helpline: Call 1-800-950-6264, or text NAMI to 62640 — www.nami.org/help
Trusted websites & online tools
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance
Peer support groups and educational resources for depressive disorders.
Mental Health America
Screening tools, information, and ways to find local support.
This toolkit is intended to provide coping tools and support. It is not a replacement for medical care, therapy, or emergency services.