Depression is an extremely prevalent mental illness in the US. More than 25 million Americans age twelve or older will suffer at least one episode of depression every year – nearly 20% of that population group. This is according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Put simply, one out of every five Americans age 12 and up suffers from depression or has at least once in the past year.
However, when analyzing data on depression by state provided publicly by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), it becomes clear that Hawai’i has a significant depression issue. Nearly 13% of residents have been diagnosed with depression and/or anxiety. However, among those people, an astounding 67.5% of them do not receive any treatment.
The good news is that help is available to you, free and confidential help, around the clock. Here are three helplines any Hawai’i resident can call to receive assistance for depression. Call today and start down a path toward helping yourself, or helping someone you know.
The National Depression Hotline
Anybody anywhere can call 866-629-4564 to reach a specialist with The National Depression Helpline. It’s a free, confidential, around-the-clock helpline for depression and/or anxiety. Call now for immediate assistance, or click here to visit the website which offers a wealth of additional information and resources. When you’re ready, we’re here to listen.
Hawaii CARES
The state’s Department of Health offers a 24/7 crisis line for all state residents to receive free and confidential assistance with any mental health issue. On Oahu, call 832-3100. For those on neighboring islands, call 800-753-6879. Visit the website by clicking here.
NAMI HelpLine
The National Alliance on Mental Illness offers a helpline for all US residents to receive assistance for depression and/or any form of mental issue. Call 800-950-6264 from Monday to Friday, 10AM to 10PM, or text “HelpLine” to 62640. You may also visit the Hawai’i-specific NAMI website, which offers a wealth of info, by clicking here.