About Defeat Depression
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The Defeat Depression Campaign provides hope and reduces stigma for people impacted by depression and other mood disorders. Defeat Depression includes a national day of action, called Defeat Depression Day, as well as an annual fundraising campaign that runs throughout the year, encompassing a series of dynamic events and activities that vary each year, all crafted with the goal of igniting a positive change in the mental health landscape.​
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Across Canada, mental health organizations, community groups, caring companies and volunteers are gearing up to initiate walks, runs, rides and other physical and social activities to raise funds and awareness for mental health. Our efforts are grounded in a commitment to fostering empathy, understanding, and a network of support that extends throughout Canada.​
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Depression does not discriminate. it affects individuals and families across all socioeconomic, educational, and cultural backgrounds. Physical activity such as walking and running, along with social interaction, can have a positive effect on mental well-being, and opening the dialogue on mental illness can help educate people and break down the barrier of stigma.
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The Objectives of the Defeat Depression National Campaign are to:
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Fundraise in Support of Mental Health Services: Rally your friends, family, and coworkers to raise funds that make a real difference.​
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Raise Awareness, Knowledge, and Acceptance of Mental Illness: Share educational materials, engage in conversations, and spread the word through social media.​
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Reduce Stigma and Foster an Encouraging Environment: Help create a society where individuals are encouraged to seek early intervention and treatment without fear of judgement.​
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Build a Network of Mental Health Supporters and Advocates Across Canada: Join local groups or online communities that are dedicated to supporting mental health initiatives.​
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Provide Resources and Supports for Those Affected: Offer supports, information, and programs to individuals living with mental illness and their families.​
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Grow the Campaign to Spread the Message of Hope and Recovery: Participate in campaign activities throughout the year, keeping the spirit of unity and recovery alive.
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About Our Logo
Recovery means gaining and retaining hope in the face of depression, understanding of one's unique journey towards wellness and achieving a rewarding and fulfilling life. "Defeat Depression" is an affirmation that represents our hope and belief that wellness is achievable.
Dark Blue: Represents the first stage of recovery and signifies that we are aware of our illness and are making plans to improve our wellness.
Medium blue: Represents the start of our journey when we put in place our wellness plans and begin to see hope.
Yellow: Represents thriving after we have achieved a positive state of wellness and are maintaining positive social and personal wellbeing.
About The Mood Disorders Society of Canada
Mood Disorders Society of Canada (MDSC) is a national, not for profit, consumer driven, voluntary health charity committed to ensuring that the voices of consumers, family members and caregivers are heard on issues relating to mental health and mental illness; and in particular with regard to depression, bipolar illness and other associated mood disorders.
MDSC was formally launched and incorporated in 2001 with the overall objective to provide people with mood disorders with a strong, cohesive voice at the national level to improve access to treatment, inform research, shape program development and government policies to improve the quality of life for people affected by mood disorders.
MDSC manages the Defeat Depression Campaign in collaboration with the many local mental health organizations from coast to coast who host events in their communities.
For more information, visit us at mdsc.ca.
Thank You To Our Sponsors
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Participating Sponsors
Supporting Sponsors
