World health day 2017: Depression-let's talk

Abstract

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Keywords

• Key messages: is a common mental disorder that affects all. The risk is increased by poverty
• unemployment
• life events such as the death of a loved one or a relationship break-up
• physical illness
• and problems caused by alcohol and drug use. Depression causes mental anguish and can impact 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 its worst
• depression can lead to suicide
• now the second leading cause of death among 15-29-year olds globally. Depression can be effectively prevented and treated. Treatment usually involves either psychotherapy or antidepressant medication or a combination of these. Overcoming the stigma often associated with depression will lead to more people seeking help.