The Impact
Defeat Depression is an initiative of the Mood Disorders Society of Canada. Defeat Depression events take place across Canada. Participants include friends, families, co-workers, neighbours, caring organizations and pets.
To-date, over 3 Million dollars has been raised. These funds have helped over 130 community mental health organizations across Canada, as well as a portion of the funds helps Mood Disorders Society of Canada (MDSC) continue work on the National stage. MDSC's research, resources and materials are available for use by all Canadians and organizations and are available at www.mdsc.ca.
Funds raised help support Mood Disorders Society of Canada with:
- Education, awareness and stigma reduction
- Resource development
- Research and Government Advocacy
Depression Does Not Discriminate
Depression is a common illness that strikes all socioeconomic, educational, and cultural backgrounds. It can be triggered by traumatic events, a biochemical imbalance or by experiencing a negative life episode. A family history of the illness is also a factor for higher risk of depression. Learn more..
Stats:
- Depression costs the Canadian economy almost $50 billion a year
- Mental Health affects 1 in 5 Canadians each year, it reflects approximately 15% of Canada’s health care burden
- Depression has a huge impact on our youth and seniors; nearly every Canadian family is affected
- At its most severe, depression can lead to suicide. There are approximately 4,000 suicides in Canada every year — 11 people each day
Our Logo
Recovery means gaining and retaining hope in the face of depression, understanding of one's unique journey towards wellness and achieving a rewarding and fulfilling life. "Defeat Depression" is an affirmation that represents our hope and belief that wellness is achievable.

- Dark Blue: Represents the first stage of recovery and signifies that we are aware of our illness and are making plans to improve our wellness.
- Medium blue: Represents the start of our journey when we put in place our wellness plans and begin to see hope.
- Yellow: Represents thriving after we have achieved a positive state of wellness and are maintaining positive social and personal wellbeing.
About Mood Disorders Society of Canada
Mood Disorders Society of Canada (MDSC) is a national, not for profit, consumer driven, voluntary health charity committed to ensuring that the voices of consumers, family members and caregivers are heard on issues relating to mental health and mental illness; and in particular with regard to depression, bipolar illness and other associated mood disorders.
MDSC was formally launched and incorporated in 2001 with the overall objective to provide people with mood disorders with a strong, cohesive voice at the national level to improve access to treatment, inform research, shape program development and government policies to improve the quality of life for people affected by mood disorders.
MDSC manages the Defeat Depression Campaign in collaboration with the many local mental health organizations from coast to coast who host events in their communities.
For more information, visit us at mdsc.ca.