Depression
Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. Also called major depressive disorder or clinical depression, it affects how you feel, think, and behave and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems. You may have trouble doing normal day-to-day activities, and sometimes you may feel as if life isn’t worth living.
More than just a bout of the blues, depression isn’t a weakness, and you can’t simply “snap out” of it. Depression may require long-term treatment. But don’t get discouraged. Most people with depression feel better with medication, psychotherapy, or both.
Source: Mayo Clinic
Types of Depression
Depression in Children
Depression in Seniors
Additional Depression Resources
Symptoms
- Warning signs of depression in children:
- Sudden changes in behavior Aggressive, angry, or agitated behavior
- Increased risk-taking
- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
- Lower self-esteem
- Gives up valued possessions and settles unfinished business
- Withdraws from friends, activities, and family
- Changes in dress or appearance
- Significant losses or family stress
Individuals may experience variations in symptoms and severity.
Risk Factors
- Depression in children is very similar to depression in adults with a few exceptions. Children may not have the vocabulary to talk about such feelings and so may express their feelings through behavior. Younger individuals with depression are more likely to show phobias, separation anxiety disorder, sleep complaints, and behavior problems. Rather than having a depressed mood, children are much more likely to have an irritable mood. Adults often will not enjoy anything when they are depressed, but there are usually some activities children and adolescents will enjoy doing no matter how depressed they get.
Treatment
Treatment must be tailored to the needs and schedule of the child and his family. Generally, with mild to moderate depression, one may first try psychotherapy and then add an antidepressant if the therapy has not produced enough improvement. If it is a severe depression, or there is serious acting out, one may start medication at the beginning of the treatment. It is important that parents find a child psychiatrist to evaluate and treat their depressed child. A child psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has received special training in diagnosing and treating psychiatric disorders in children.
Symptoms
- Feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, helplessness
- Feelings of inappropriate guilt
- Persistent sadness or anxiety
- Unexplained crying Irritability
- Withdrawal from formerly pleasurable activities and relationships
- Memory loss, confusion, disorientation
- Inability to concentrate or make decisions
- Lack of attention to physical appearance
- Changes in eating habits
- Changes in sleeping habits
- Decreased energy or fatigue
- Thoughts of suicide
- Overly concerned with physical problems
Individuals may experience variations in symptoms and severity.
Risk Factors
- Stress and loss
- Genetics
- Biological factors
- Medical conditions
- Low level of education
Treatment
- Counselling - Cognitive therapy, Behavioral therapy, Interpersonal therapy
- Medication
Men’s Virtual Peer Support Group
Women’s Peer Support
Friends and Family Support Group
Winnipeg – Senior’s Tea & Tales
Mixed Coffee and Chat
Mixed In-Person Bipolar Peer Support Group
Mixed Depression & Anxiety
Wellness Peer Support Group – Westman
Soul Sisters
Brandon Men’s Activity Club
Selkirk – Tea & Tales
Young Adult Peer Support Group
Men’s In-Person Peer Support Group
Game Night
Lac du Bonnet – Tea & Tales
Brandon – Tea & Tales
Neepawa – Postpartum Peer Support Group
Brandon – Postpartum Peer Support Group
Minnedosa- Tea & Tales
Student Support Group
Disordered Eating & Body Image Workshop
M.A.D. Mondays
Join us every Wednesday from 6:30 – 7:30 pm for a confidential and safe place to talk. Click the link below to join, no registration needed.
This is an open group for anyone who identifies as a man,18+ living in Manitoba.
These in-person and virtual groups are for anyone who identifies as a woman. We welcome open, honest, and heartfelt connections and conversations and we aim to provide coping techniques and support for women struggling with their mental health.
Our in-person group meets every Thursday from 6:45-7:45 pm at 4 Fort St in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Our virtual group meets every Tuesday from 6:00 – 7:00 pm. Click the link below to join, no registration needed.
IN PERSON
Thursdays
6:45 pm to 7:45 pm
Facilitator: Katherine, Alexandria, Karly M. and Melanie
This group offers support to friends and family to help them deal with mood disorders diagnosed or undiagnosed and welcomes them to experience support and connection.
This group meets virtually every Tuesday from 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm Please click the link below to join, no registration is required.
Our Seniors Tea & Tales is all about getting together for an afternoon tea or coffee and a light snack to share experiences and discuss a variety of topics about mental health, or simply to connect with other people in a similar age group!
This group has been meeting regularly for the past two years and is well-established. Members often bring home-baked goods to share, along with various items for our ‘Show & Tell’ segment. After initial introductions/check-in and a short break, the group does a five-minute guided meditation together. The ‘word of the week’, chosen the week before, is usually discussed and a new word is chosen. Lively discussions around group-guided topics often occur. Meetings usually wrap up with a positive affirmation or a quote containing words of wisdom. New members are always welcomed warmly!
Location: Our office at 100-4 Fort Street, Winnipeg.
IN PERSON
Tuesdays
1:30 pm - 3:30 pm
Facilitator: Pam H. & Barb F.
Our in-person Mixed Coffee and Chat Group invites the community to come together to talk about anything and everything related to mental health. From discussing life’s challenges to simply shooting the breeze, it is a safe space to find support and resources to help make daily life just that much easier.
This group meets every Tuesday from 5:30 – 6:30 pm at 100-4 Fort Street in Winnipeg.
IN PERSON
Tuesdays
5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Facilitator: Matt
This in-person group is open to anyone affected by bipolar disorder, whether directly or indirectly. You don’t need a diagnosis to join, and family, friends, or anyone supporting someone with bipolar disorder are also welcome. It’s a space for support, conversation, and connection.
This group meets at our Winnipeg office located at 100-4 Fort Street on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 – 7:30 pm.
IN PERSON
Tuesdays
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Facilitator: Marie S. & Ryan S.
This in-person group is for anyone dealing with depression or anxiety, whether you’ve been diagnosed or not. Join us for connection, conversation, and support, along with resources to help you on your path to healing.
This group meets at our Winnipeg office located at 100-4 Fort Street on Thursday evenings from 6:30 – 8:00 pm.
IN PERSON
Thursday
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Facilitator: Jezz
This is an online mixed group that focuses on wellness topics, addressing all mood disorders, diagnosed or undiagnosed and welcomes everyone to experience an evening of support and connection.
Please note: There is no charge for this group and we do not meet on statutory holidays. This group meets virtually once per month from 6:30 – 8:00 pm and meets next on September 16, 2024. Starting October 7th, this group will meet weekly.
To join the group and receive the Zoom link or for more information, please contact adassist@moodmb.ca or call/text our Brandon office at (204) 721-2174.
ONLINE
Once Per Month on Sep. 16th and then weekly starting October 7
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
A community of women who care about each other and who welcome open, honest, heartfelt connections and conversations. Come join a sacred space of nonjudgmental & confidential sharing.
Please note: There is no charge for this group and we do not meet on statutory holidays.
To join the group and receive the Zoom link or for more information, please contact adassist@moodmb.ca or call/text our Brandon office at (204) 721-2174.
ONLINE
Wednesday
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Facilitator: Susan
This group is aimed primarily at men 40+ but those younger are welcome as well. The group fosters socialization and connection among men in a workshop setting. This group does not meet on statutory holidays. (No charge for this group.)
To receive the link to this group or for further information, please contact the Brandon office by emailing or calling/texting:
adassist@moodmb.ca
(204) 721-2174
IN PERSON
Wednesday
12:30 to 2:00 pm
Facilitator: In person at the BNRC Creation Nation Maker Space in Brandon, Manitoba
Our Seniors Tea & Tales is all about coming together for an afternoon tea or coffee to share experiences and discuss a variety of topics about mental health, or simply to connect with other people in a similar age group!
Location: The Gordon Howard Centre, 384 Eveline St., Selkirk, MB. This group meets every Thursday from 1:00 – 2:30 pm. Light refreshments and snacks are provided.
No registration required.
IN PERSON
Every Thursday
1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Facilitator: Susan
Join us every Thursday evening from 5:00 – 6:00 pm for a confidential and safe place to talk. This is an open group for 18+ living in Manitoba.
Please note: this group is on hold until further notice.
Join us every week for a confidential and safe place to talk.
This is an open group for anyone who identifies as a man,18+ living in Manitoba. This group meets at our Winnipeg office located at 100-4 Fort Street.
IN PERSON
Monday
5:30 - 6:30 pm at 4 Fort Street
Facilitator: Matthew C., Shawn D., and Daniel
Dive into the magic of Friday nights at MDAM – it’s Game Night!
Every Friday night, MDAM opens its doors at 6:00 pm at 100-4 Fort Street in Winnipeg for a good old-fashioned games night.
Game play kicks off at 6:00 pm, carrying the excitement through until 10:00 pm. Bring along a buddy or make some new friends as we gather to play an array of games – dice, cards, and board games galore!
But here’s the deal: At MDAM, we’re all about good vibes and creating a safe and enjoyable space for everyone. Unsportsmanlike conduct or a negative attitude won’t fly here. If such behavior is observed, we’ll kindly ask you to leave. So bring your best attitude, a zest for fun, and let’s create unforgettable moments together! Join us for a night of games, giggles, and good times!
Thank you to Across the Board, Victory Pints and Toad Hall Toys for their generous donation of board games. Big thank you also to our members who have donated games – Stephanie, Penny and Shawn.
IN PERSON
Friday Nights
Doors open 6:00 pm, Game play 6:00 - 10:00 pm
Facilitator: Pam, Jezz, Ryan and Barb
Our Seniors Tea & Tales is all about coming together for an afternoon tea or coffee to share experiences and discuss a variety of topics about mental health, or simply to connect with other people in a similar age group!
This is a new group in the Lac du Bonnet area that started on March 4, 2024. The group meets the second Monday of each month.
Location: The Lutheran Church of the Cross, 253 McArthur Avenue, Lac du Bonnet.
No registration required.
IN PERSON
Second Monday of the Month
1:30 - 3:00 pm
Facilitator: Bianca Tetrault
Our Seniors Tea & Tales is all about coming together for an afternoon tea or coffee to share experiences and discuss a variety of topics about mental health, or simply to connect with other people in a similar age group!
This is a new group in the Brandon area starting on September 6th. The group meets every Friday from 10:30 am – 12:00 pm at Rotary Villas, 1340 10 St., Brandon, MB.
To join or for more information, please contact adassist@moodmb.ca or (204) 721-2174.
IN PERSON
Every Friday
10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Facilitator: Lora Hay
MDAM Prairie Mountain is Calling All Moms at Calvary Chapel in Neepawa, MB!
Location: Calvary Chapel 221 Hamilton Street Neepawa, MB
Time: 2 pm – 3 pm
Dates: Meets Twice a Month on September 12 & 26, 2024 and then bi-weekly on October 3, 17, 31, 2024
Join us in-person for support and empowerment in creating the life and wellness you want for yourself and your family. To provide tools and support to parents experiencing postpartum depression. Children welcomed!
For more information, please contact Lora:
✉️outreachmgr(at)moodmb.ca
☎️(204) 721-2174 or (431) 866-4234
IN PERSON
Twice a Month on September 12 & 26, 2024
2:00 - 3:00 pm
Facilitator: Lora Hay
Calling All Moms at Baby Bump!
Location: Baby Bump, 728 18th Street Brandon, MB
Time: 10:30 am – 11:30 am
Dates: Once a month on Mondays, starting September 16, 2024 & October 21, 2024
MDAM Prairie Mountain has partnered with Baby Bump! Join us in-person for support and empowerment in creating the life and wellness you want for yourself and your family. To provide tools and support to parents experiencing postpartum depression. Children welcomed!
For more information, please contact Lora:
outreachmgr@moodmb.ca
(431) 866-4234
IN PERSON
Once a Month on Monday's starting September 16, 2024
10:30-11:30 am
Facilitator: Lora Hay
We are pleased to announce we will be offering our Senior’s Tea & Tales group in Minnedosa in September!
Calling All Seniors for Tea & Tales at the Minnedosa 50+ Activity Centre!
Location: 31 Main St S, Minnedosa, MB
Time: 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Dates: Wednesdays, starting September 18th, 2024 for 6 weeks
MDAM Prairie Mountain has partnered with the Minnedosa 50+ Activity Centre to offer a safe and confidential space for folks to come together! Looking to connect with others in your community? Then come join us for a morning of refreshments to connect, exchange stories and discuss a wide range of mental health topics.
For more information, please call Lora:
(431) 866-4234 or (204) 721-2174
IN PERSON
Wednesdays, starting September 18th, 2024 for 6 weeks
10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Facilitator: Lora Hay
Calling all Brandon University and Assiniboine College Students!
Location: KDC Student’s Lounge at Brandon University
Time: 7:00-8:00PM
Date: October 14th, October 21st, November 18th, and December 16th
And
Location: ASCA Boardroom at Assiniboine College
Time: 7:00-8:00PM
Date: November 4th and December 2nd.
Discover your passion, find support, and thrive together! Whether you’re at Brandon University or Assiniboine College, we’re here to help you stay afloat and flourish.
Join our student support group with the MDAM Prairie Mountain for a space to explore mental health, healthy coping, creativity, and community. This is a safe and confidential space.
For more information or to register, please contact us:
(204) 721-2174 by phone or text or email us at adassist@moodmb.ca
IN PERSON
See Page for Full Listing
7:00 - 8:00 pm
Join our 6-week Disordered Eating & Body Image Workshop with Huddle Brandon and MDAM Prairie Mountain!
Location: Huddle Brandon
Time: 4:00-5:00PM
Date: 6 weeks between November 4th and December 16th
Whether in-person or online, we’ll explore setting intentions, challenging beauty standards, nourishing your body, and fostering self-love. Dive into movement, healthy goal-setting, and build a supportive community. Let’s transform our relationship with ourselves and find lasting balance together.
For more information or to register, please contact Huddle:
Phone: (204) 717-6565
Email: youask@huddlebrandon.ca
IN PERSON
6 Weeks Between November 4th - December 16th
4:00 - 5:00 pm
This group meets every Monday from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm at 100 – 4 Fort Street in Winnipeg and is a safe space for anyone ages 12-17 to hang out after school to listen to/play music, create art, work on dance or drama routines, and have access to peer support workers. Snacks and light refreshments are provided.
E-mail: youthprogram@moodmb.ca
Phone: 204-890-4316
*This program is scheduled to begin on October 21, 2024.
Registration is required for this program. To register, please click here.
IN PERSON
Mondays
4:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Facilitator: Cheyenne Zamora