#DayOfLight – Awareness, Action and Support

ByMichelle Garrett

Join Pushing Lovely and me on the #DayOfLight, Wednesday, February 5th. We are taking to social media to bring depression out of the dark.

“That’s the thing about depression: A human being can survive almost anything, as long as she sees the end in sight. But depression is so insidious, and it compounds daily, that it’s impossible to ever see the end.” ― Elizabeth Wurtzel, Prozac Nation

Depression is definitely something that should not be taken lightly or brushed off.  It can kill. It can leave a person debilitated and isolated.  Often family and friends just don’t get it. This movement is to help us all get it. To help us realize and recognize the harsh realities of depression and make a difference in the lives of others.

Day of Light

What is Depression?

Depression is a common but serious mental illness typically marked by sad or anxious feelings. These feelings tend to linger for periods longer than 2 weeks at a time and interfere with daily activities. Depression does not discriminate based on age, race, gender or sexuality.You are not alone. Depression is often an illness of isolation. People suffer in silence, and frequently feel as if they are alone. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) more than 20 million people in the United States suffer from depression. Join the ladies of Pushing Lovely as we work together to bring depression out of the dark and declare February 5th, 2014 the #DayOfLight.

What is #DayOfLight?

#DayOfLight was created to shine a light on depression, and share resources for those who are struggling with the mental illness. Bloggers from all over the country are collaborating on Wednesday, February 5th to flood social media with personal stories about living with depression, and accurate information on managing and living with the mental illness.

How Can You Participate?

  • Write a blog post sharing your personal experience of depression and/or share resources to help others. Add the #DayOfLight hashtag in your post title.
  • Watch the #DayOfLight Google Hangout on Wednesday, February 5th at 11 AM EST. Tweet and ask questions. (http://bit.ly/1ilifbP)
  • Participate in the #DayOfLight twitter chat on Wednesday, February 5th at 9 PM EST (follow @PushingLovely, @NotoriousSpinks, and @BrandiJeter for more information)
  • Turn your social media avatars black and white on Wednesday, February 5th so we can visually represent all of those affected by depression.
  • Share inspiring tweets, posts, and photos  on social media to encourage those who are suffering with depression to let them know that they are not alone. Use the hashtag #DayOfLight.