03.03.2017

World Health Day 2017

Number of People with depression increases

World Health Organisation (WHO) "According to new estimates of depression released by the World Health Organisation, the number of people living with depression is increased by 18% between 2005 and 2015. Depression is also the largest cause of disability worldwide. More than 80% of this disease burden is among people living in low- and middle-income countries.

(...) Depression is different from usual mood fluctuations and short-lived emotional responses to challenges in everyday life. Especially when long-lasting and with moderate or severe intensity, depression may become a serious health condition. It can cause the affected person to suffer greatly and function poorly at work, at school and in the family. At its worst, depression can lead to suicide. Close to 800 000 people die due to suicide every year. Suicide is the second leading cause of death in 15-29-year-olds.

(...) In the lead-up to World Health Day on 7 April, which this year will focus on this increasingly important issue, WHO is releasing a new global report on health estimates on depression." (Photo: AmatateurArtGuy/flickr)