Indian Psychiatric Society (IPS), Committee on Public Education & Awareness

WHO campaign on World Health Day 2017:

The theme of World Health Day 2017, celebrated on the 7th of April, was depression. The overall goal of this one-year campaign was that more people with depression, in all countries, seek and get help.

Depression is the leading cause of ill-health and disability worldwide. More than 300 million people are now living with depression, an increase of more than 18% between 2005 and 2015. Lack of support for people with mental disorders, coupled with a fear of stigma, prevent many from accessing the treatment they need to live healthy, productive lives.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has predicted that by 2030, depression will account for the highest level of disability accorded any physical or mental disorder in the world. (WHO, 2008)

More specifically, the aim was to achieve the following:

• the general public is better informed about depression, its causes and possible consequences, including suicide, and what help is or can be available for prevention and treatment;

• people with depression seek help; and

• family, friends and colleagues of people living with depression are able to provide support.

Understanding Depression

Depression is a state of low mood and aversion to activity that can affect a person’s thoughts, behavior, feelings, and sense of well-being. A depressed mood is a normal temporary reaction to life events such as the loss of a loved one. The difference between a depressed mood and Major Depressive Disorder is length of time, ranging from very temporary such as a day to a month, and Major Depressive Disorder which is long-term and life-impacting. The persistent feeling of sadness or loss of interest that characterizes major depression can lead to a range of behavioral and physical symptoms. These may include changes in sleep, appetite, energy level, concentration, daily behavior or self-esteem. Depression can also be associated with thoughts of suicide.

Contributing factors and prevention

Depression results from a complex interaction of social, psychological and biological factors. People who have gone through adverse life events (unemployment, bereavement, psychological trauma) are more likely to develop depression. Depression can, in turn, lead to more stress and dysfunction and worsen the affected person’s life situation and depression itself.

The most common signs of depression include:

• Experiencing sadness and low moods

• Experiencing feelings of hopelessness and feeling that things will never get any better

• Experiencing feelings of emptiness

• In some cases not experiencing any emotions

• Blaming oneself for everything; guilt

• Having low self-esteem

• Not liking the things that you once liked

• Overeating or not eating enough

• Not finding it easy to fall asleep or oversleeping

• Experiencing feelings of tiredness and feeling run down

• Experiencing feelings of restlessness and not being able to sit still

• Experiencing pains and aches that are not related to any known health problem

When should a person seek professional help?

When a person starts experiencing the following symptoms that do not seem to go away on their own, and start interfering with their routine life, it is suggested that the person seek professional help:

• Withdrawing from social activities

• Crying frequently

• Suicidal thoughts

• Lack of interest

• Not wanting to do anything

• Feeling guilty

• Reduced emotional response

Self-help strategies for depression can be really effective for improving mood.

In addition to seeking help from a mental health professional, there are other things a person can do to help improve their mood. These include:

• Tracking negative thoughts

• Practicing Relaxation

• Avoiding alcohol and drugs

• Staying active

• Developing a healthy sleep routine

• Learning something new

• Connecting with friends and family for social support

• Learning positive coping strategies

• Joining a support group