Depression problems are better known as silent killers. Depression can really force patients to stay low and even think about attempting suicides. Hence, depression patients need something extra than just normal medications.

There are many pharma companies that are now trying to come up with better medications that can help these depression patients to stay on their toes, but AstraZeneca has decided to do something different for depression patients. Last year, AstraZeneca and Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance partnered to come up with a new campaign for patients suffering from bipolar depression. The campaign is better known as Speak and Be Heard Living with Depression where different patients suffering from bipolar depression and major depressive disorder showcase their positive spirit through various art forms like poems, essays and art.

This is an innovative campaign for bipolar depression patients because they get an opportunity to interact with other depression-affected patients who are doing well at handling their depression. Every year a bench of judges selects few finalists in different categories who are already doing well at overcoming their depression problems. These depression patients soon become like role models to those patients who are unable to handle their depression.

This campaign allows them to come together and share their experience in how they can handle their depression in a better way. This year Dr. Janet Taylor, Allen Doederlein, Executive Director of External Affairs at DBSA and Amanda Smith, last year’s finalist participated as judges and selected a few finalists.

This year’s finalists were selected in the following categories:

Essay

• Linea J. Seattle, WA, “Finding Dry Land”

• Lisa W., Bradenton, FL, “Teacher Talk”

• April T., Albany, GA, “Salvaged”

Poetry

• Vicki M. Lawrenceville, GA, “Recovery from the Pit”

• Kim C. Steubenville, OH, “Hope”

• Sara T. Marinette, WI, “The Walking Wounded”

Art

• Julie J. Orange, CA, “The Flip Side”

• Jennifer G. Federal Way, WA, “Stitches”

• Michael K. Palm Desert, CA, “Artshines”

Video

• Jennifer S. Mahopac, NY, “A Bipolar Memoir”

• Marci M. Asheville, NC, “On The Road to Wellness”

All the finalist names will be posted on AstraZeneca’s Facebook page and DBSA’s Community Wellness Site.