On the eve of the World Health Day 2017, the state governor, PB Acharya, has called upon the people to have better understanding of depression, which would help reduce the stigma associated with the illness, and lead to more people seeking help.
World Health Day is a global health awareness day celebrated every year on April 7, under the sponsorship of the World Health Organization (WHO).
With the aim to mobilize action on depression, this year’s World Health Day campaign theme is “Depression: let’s talk”.
In his message, the governor said that depression was an illness that could happen to people of all ages, from all walks of life, in all the countries.
He said depression causes mental anguish and affects people’s ability to carry out everyday tasks, with sometimes devastating consequences for relationship with family and friend. Acharya further said that at worst, depression could lead to self inflected injuries and suicide. However, he said fortunately depression could be prevented and treated, which usually involves either talking therapy or antidepressant medication or a combination of these. “Depression can be treated. If you think you have depression, seek help. Talking with people you trust can be a first step towards recovery from depression,” Acharya added. According to WHO, depression was the leading cause of ill health and disability worldwide. As per the latest estimates from WHO, more than 300 million people were 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.
Monday, August 11, 2025