Introduction

Contributing Factors

Identifying Symptoms of Depression

Treatment

“Real” Intersection of Systems

Action Ideas That Work

Resource Links

Resource Pages

References

Action Ideas That Work

Understanding Depression: A free series of educational forums provided by six south Minneapolis churches

Health Fair – Understanding Mental Health and Depression

Tele-Group for Depression

Friendly Visitor Programs

Befriender and Stephen Minister Lay Ministry Programs

A Card Ministry

Health Fair – Understanding Mental Health and Depression

Over a four-hour period one Saturday morning, a congregation in Minneapolis held a very success “health fair” centered around depression and mental health. The fair consisted of a number of exhibits set up by mental health organizations in the Twin Cities metro area. Some of the exhibitors stayed and talked to attendees, some left information that attendees could take home.

In addition, four speakers addressed the group:

• A graduate student in geriatric mental health spoke about depression and the elderly
• A well-respected congregation member spoke about his personal experience in living with schizophrenia
• Staff from a national mental health organization overviewed mental illness
• A minister spoke on the topic of spirituality and mental health

Attendees were overwhelmingly supportive of the health fair. Due to its popularity, congregation members have requested a health fair centered on mental health in children, which will be held later this year.