All together now

The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) and Health Canada collaborated on the preparation of this booklet which is in turn based on research sponsored by the Canadian Mental Health Association, and funded by Health Canada

Depression and manic depression (sometimes known as affective disorders or mood disorders) are among the most common illnesses in our society affecting more than I0 out of every I00 people. Although almost everyone will say "I'm depressed," from time to time, feeling sad or down is not the same as suffering from depression. Depression doesn't go away in a few days and it's not caused by a lack of willpower or personal weakness. Affective disorders are illnesses which can be diagnosed and treated successfully We know a lot more about depression and manic depression than we did only a few years ago. And we've learned how deeply these disorders affect the whole family That's why this booklet was written: to help families live with affective disorders.

This booklet is based on the findings of a major research project involving people across the country- patients, partners, adult children who grew up with a depressed parent, and also the professionals who work with them This study provided some very meaningful information about what it's like for families to live with depression. The ideas in this booklet are based largely on what they told us about their feelings and the methods that helped them cope.

Some of these suggestions maybe helpful in your family or you may just feel better knowing that someone else understands what you're going through. A list of places with more information has also been included for your benefit We hope you'll find something here that helps make life a little more comfortable for you and your family.

Read the publication