The Mood Disorders Association of Ontario (MDAO) today launches "It's All In Your Head!" an initiative to promote awareness of the work of the MDAO and dispel myths about mental illness. Volunteers will be in the Yonge-Eglinton subway station and the Yonge-Eglinton Centre to hand out "heady" information to commuters during the evening rush hour.

Mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder will affect one in five individuals at some point in their life. And yet, there is much misunderstanding and stigma associated with these illnesses. "Our goal is to make people aware that - YES - mood disorders are in your head! Mood Disorders affect the chemistry of the brain and are very treatable" says Karen Liberman, Executive Director of the MDAO. "Myths and misconceptions prevent individuals from recognizing that the signs and symptoms of mood disorders are real and that help is available."

MDAO, has developed a quick fact sheet for its campaign "It's All In Your Head!" to dispel the myths about mood disorders.

Today's campaign is part of an ongoing initiative that aims to enhance the quality of life for all affected by mood disorders, by providing support, information, education and advocacy.

About MDAO

MDAO provides peer support groups led by trained volunteer facilitators who have been affected by a mood disorder. MDAO support groups are for individuals affected by depression and bipolar disorder, their family, friends, and partners. MDAO also offers youth only and women only groups. Our Sisters' Place, a specialised program of the MDAO provides support groups to women that focus on mood disorders associated with hormonal changes throughout the lifespan.

Information and support is also available across the province through MDAO's toll free number 1-888-486-8236. Trained volunteers are available during office hours (9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) to provide callers with local support group details, as well as offering peer to peer support.

The Mood Disorders Association of Ontario is proud to offer programs and services that cover a wide range of issues and topics. The programs are designed by and for people with mood disorders and their families and friends. MDAO provides support, information and education as a complement to traditional and alternative therapies. MDAO services are not intended as replacement for other treatment options. For information, support or referral to the group location and services nearest to you, call toll free: 1-888-486-8326 or visit us on the web at mooddisorders.on.ca.

Mood Disorders Association of Ontario