Depression is one of the most rampant ailments plaguing individuals today. We take a look at the scenario of depression in the country and the state and what is being done to combat it
Words: Rochelle D ‘souza Images: Various sources
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared Depression as the theme for the World Health Day which is celebrated on 7th April. This 2017, the campaign slogan is ‘Depression: Let’s Talk’ that was released on the World Mental Health Day (10 October 2016). The National Institute of Mental Sciences has defined Depression as a common but serious mood disorder. It causes severe symptoms that affect how you feel, think, and handle daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working. To be diagnosed with depression, the symptoms must be present for at least two weeks.
A Serious Matter
The majority of us are unaware about the toll that Depression can take in one’s life. According to the latest estimates released by the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 300 million people are now living with depression, which is the leading cause of ill-health and disability worldwide. Known as an important risk factor for suicide, depression has claimed thousands of lives each year. With an aim to reduce the suicide rate in countries by 10% by 2020, WHO Mental Health Action Plan 2013-2020 have committed themselves to working towards the global target. Let these startling figures be a wake-up call for countries who are neglecting their people suffering from mental disorders. 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.
Kerala Statistics
A recent survey conducted in some districts of Kerala revealed that around 9 per cent people in the state are suffering from mental depression, 0.29 percent had schizophrenia problems and 0.27 had bipolar disorder. The survey was conducted in 108 gram panchayats and 29 municipalities under the supervision of Kerala State Mental Health Authority with the support of District Mental Health Programme and National Health Mission. And, shockingly only 25% of Keralites who suffer from Depression seek expert help.
The Bill
In many countries, there is no, or very little, support available for people with mental health disorders. Even in high-income countries, nearly 50 percent of people with depression do not get treatment. On average, just three percent of government health budgets is invested in mental health, varying from less than one percent in low-income countries to five per cent in high-income countries. Though there was a continuous stigma associated with depression, the recent move by the government on securing parliamentary approval with the LokSabha’s assent to the legislation on The Mental Healthcare Bill 2016 is laudable. The bill provides for mental health care and services for persons with mental illness and also decriminalises suicide. The bill ensures every person shall have a right to access mental health care and treatment from mental health services run or funded by the appropriate government. It also assures free treatment for poor. It’s high time that we do our small act of kindness to rejuvenate the lives of those going through the traumatic phase.
Ways to get out of Depression
- Try to be active and exercise.
- Set realistic goals for yourself.
- Try to spend time with positive people.
- Increase Social contacts and support