'Depression: let's talk about it'

Preventing and treating depression to prevent suicides

The 'Depression: let's talk about it' campaign is part of the National Suicide Prevention Plan (2015-2019), the aim of which is to tackle the causes and consequences of suicide and reduce suicide attempts and deaths from suicide in Luxembourg. Run by the Information and Prevention Service of the Luxembourg League for Mental Health (Service information et prévention de la Ligue luxembourgeoise d'hygiène mentale), and drawing on the expertise of the European Alliance against Depression, this is the first in a series of national information and awareness campaigns on mental health.

Core messages of the 'Depression: let's talk about it' campaign

The core messages of the campaign are:

• Depression is a real illness.
• Depression can affect anybody.
• Depression can be treated.
• There are many sides to depression.
• Just listening can be helpful.

The campaign includes a website www.prevention-depression.lu in French and German, as well as leaflets and posters showing the core messages of the campaign in 5 languages: Luxembourgish, French, German, English and Portuguese. The campaign's 5 visuals were designed in the League's artistic workshops.
Information materials will be distributed to doctors, clinics, schools, social services and any other public meeting places. The campaign also includes flyers to be displayed on buses and postcards that can be sent to loved ones to remind them of little things that may make them smile.

In addition to the information materials, an awareness roadshow will be rolled out throughout 2018. Run by mental health professionals from the League aiming to get as close as possible to members of the public, this roadshow will provide opportunities for anyone interested in the topic or worried about a loved one's health to discuss their concerns.
Further information on depression, and how to prevent and treat it, can be found on the campaign website www.prevention-depression.lu.