Depression is estimated to effect 4% of the world population and is linked to close to 800,000 suicides per year globally according to the World Health Estimates of the World Health Organisation published earlier this year. (link to WH0,2017).The same report quotes research conducted worldwide in 2015, with estimates of prevalence of mental and behavior disorders indicating that in Malta 5.1% of the population suffer from depressive disorders and 4.9% from anxiety disorders. Translated into crude numbers this means 40,000 adults or one tenth of the Maltese Population.
World Health Day 2017, the annual initiative of WHO, is focusing this year on the theme "DEPRESSION: LET'S TALK". Depression affects people of all ages, from all walks of life, in all countries. It causes mental anguish and impacts on people's ability to carry out even the simplest everyday tasks, with sometimes devastating consequences for relationships with family and friends and the ability to earn a living. At worst, depression can lead to suicide, now the second leading cause of death among 15-29-year olds. Yet, depression can be prevented and treated. A better understanding of what depression is, and how it can be prevented and treated, will help reduce stigma associated with the condition, and lead to more people seeking help.
What is depression?
Depression is 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. This is well described in the WHO video "Depression: what you should know".
Why talk about mental illness?
The importance of talking about depression is a vital component of recovery. Talking about depression, with a family member, friend or medical professional; or in larger groups, such as in schools, workplaces and social settings; or in the public domain, in the news media, blogs or social media, helps break down this stigma, ultimately leading to more people seeking help. Depression can affect anyone. The WHO, recommends particular attention and focus on the following three groups that are disproportionally affected: adolescents and young adults, women of childbearing age (particularly following childbirth), and older adults (over 60s).
What is the message?
- Depression is common and affects people of all ages, from all walks of life, in all countries.
- The risk of becoming depressed is increased by poverty, unemployment, life events such as the death of loved ones or relationship break-ups, physical illness and problems caused by alcohol and drug abuse.
- Depression impacts on people's ability to carry out even the simplest everyday tasks, with sometimes devastating consequences for relationships with family and friends.
- Untreated depression can prevent people from working and participating in family and community life.
- At worst, depression can lead to suicide.
- Depression can be effectively prevented and treated. Treatment usually involves either a talking therapy or antidepressant medication or a combination of these.
What can I do?
What does the Office of the Commissioner think of this campaign?
As an office we do not offer services directly to people who have mental health problems but we are always willing to direct queries and help people to access the right treatment, at the right time, from the right professional. As an office safeguard patients' rights, fight stigma in all possible ways and ensure that people with a mental health problem are treated fairly and with dignity.