Depression: Let’s Talk

Although it may be difficult to discuss, depression is more widespread now than ever before. The World Health Organization is in the middle of a year-long depression awareness and treatment campaign, and have focused resources on increasing awareness of the prevalence of depression worldwide. The World Health Organization will be celebrating World Health Day on April 7th, 2017, with a special focus on depression. WHO defines depression as “[an] illness characterized by persistent sadness and a loss of interest in activities that you normally enjoy, accompanied by an inability to carry out daily activities, for at least two weeks. In addition, people with depression normally have several of the following symptoms: a loss of energy; a change in appetite; sleeping more or less; anxiety; reduced concentration; indecisiveness; restlessness; feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or hopelessness; and thoughts of self-harm or suicide.”

Common mental disorders are increasing worldwide. Between 1990 and 2013, the number of people suffering from depression and/or anxiety increased by nearly 50%. Close to 10% of the world’s population is affected by one or both of these conditions. Depression alone accounts for 10% of years lived with disability globally (World Health Organization).

There are effective treatments for moderate and severe depression. Psychological treatment is available, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, and interpersonal psychotherapy or antidepressant medication (such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants). Different psychological treatment formats for consideration include individual and/or group face-to-face psychological treatments (World Health Organization).

Many resources have been made available by World Health Organization, such as a depression fact sheet, a campaign guide, and a handful of depression handouts, including a handout for living with someone with depression, depression in children, and tips on preventing depression.

If you or someone you know may be suffering from depression, there is hope. Genesis also has a helpful list of pleasurable activities to try out if you are feeling depressed, as well as information on depression in children.