Past Events – Lady Luck Festival

The Black Dog Institute is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by mood disorders through methods such as clinical services, research, and education.

The term ‘Black Dog’ comes from the metaphor most famously used by Winston Churchill to describe his own depression. His famous ‘V’ for Victory salute is referenced in the logo as a symbol that depression can be overcome. The victory sign casts the shadow of a black dog which is a metaphor for a disorder that is constantly lurking in the background, however the emphasis is on the positive being more powerful than the negative.

FACTS

• Mood disorders affect more than 1 in 7 Australians, less than 50% of those will seek professional help.
• Suicide is the highest cause of death in men under the age of 44, more than skin cancer and the national road toll.
• 1 in 5 Australians will experience a mental illness in a 12-month period
• 1 in 33 Australians will experience bipolar disorder in their lifetime
• 1 in 10 males will experience depression in their lifetime.
• Men are at greater risk of their depression going un-recognised and untreated when compared to women.
• Men commonly manage their symptoms by using drugs and alcohol which will often make symptoms worse.
• 1 in 6 women will experience depression in their lifetime.
• Approximately 1 in 7 women will experience post-natal depression.