10 October is the day designated by the World Health Organisation to raise awareness about mental health. The theme chosen for this year is ‘Depression: Global Crisis’.

Mental illness, like depression and anxiety, is very common and is on the increase. It is estimated that around 350 million people worldwide are suffering from depression. The World Health Organisation predicts that by 2025, depression will be the most common disease that will surpass even heart disease, diabetes and cancer.

There are several factors leading to a rapid rise in depression within society. Largely because we are living a faster and a more stressful life. Depression is also on the increase due to social factors such as family breakdown, unhealthy environment, lack of finances to live comfortably and other issues.

Depression affects every strata of society. Each one of us can suffer from mental health problems. Today we are witnessing an increase in this condition even among children and adolescents.

Depression does not only affect the health and the quality of life of an individual, it also affects the family. It is important that cure for depression starts off early. Depression can be cured. Although treatment exists, it is a pity that almost 70% of people suffering from depression do not go for treatment. This is due to the fear of being labelled, or judged. Unfortunately there is a lot of stigma in relation to mental illness. Some individuals think that they can insult others with mental illness. This behaviour adds to the suffering of people experiencing mental health problems.

Symptoms of depression are diverse and include among others:

• Sadness or unexplained crying;

• Difficulty of falling asleep and waking too early or late in the morning;

• Apathy and fatigue;

• Lack of interest in life;

• Lack of interest in food or food overconsumption;

• Agitation or anger without reason;

• Inability to make a decision;

• No longer able to face certain situations;

• Feeling tired in certain times of the day mostly during the mornings;

• Feelings of daunting;

• Lack of self-confidence;

• Avoid meeting others and preferring loneliness;

• Lack of sexual appetite;

• Thoughts of harming yourself or suicide.

Depression can be cured if individuals seek treatment. So I encourage anyone who is suffering or who suffers from depression or other mental health problems to visit one’s family doctor or health centres. In recent years many community services for mental health problems were extended.

I want to stress the point that it is no disgrace to seek professional advice of a psychiatrist. Those who should seek help for mental health issues should not be shamed. On the contrary, those who harm and poke fun against others who experienced or are still experiencing mental health problems are to be ashamed.

Such a wise move does not only imply depression cure, it also implies a better quality of life for him/her and his/her family. The public can also call mental health services in the community on 2340-4329 for more information on treatment for depression and to learn about the various services offered by the public sector for people suffering from mental health problems.