WHO Aims To Mobilise Action On Depression

The World Health Day is a global health awareness day celebrated every year on 7 April, under the sponsorship of the World Health Organization (WHO).

The World Health Day is seen as an opportunity by the organisation to draw worldwide attention to a subject of major importance to global health each year. The WHO organises international, regional and local events on the Day related to a particular theme. World Health Day is acknowledged by various governments and non-governmental organisations with interests in public health issues, who also organise activities and highlight their support.

This year, WHO aims to mobilise action on Depression, this condition affects people of all ages, from all walks of life, in all countries. It impacts on people's ability to carry out everyday tasks, with consequences for families, friends, and even communities, workplaces, and health care systems. At worst, depression can lead to self-inflicted injury and suicide. A better understanding of depression - which can be prevented and treated - will help reduce the stigma associated with the illness, and lead to more people seeking help.

Depression is a common illness worldwide, with more than 300 million people affected. Depression can happen at any age but often begins in adulthood. At its worst, depression can lead to suicide. More women are affected by depression than men, it is now recognised as occurring in children and adolescents, although it sometimes presents with more prominent irritability than a low mood. Many chronic mood and anxiety disorders in adults begin as high levels of anxiety in children.

Prevention programmes have been shown to reduce depression. Effective community approaches to prevent depression include school-based programmes to enhance a pattern of positive thinking in children and adolescents. Interventions for parents of children with behavioural problems may reduce parental depressive symptoms and improve outcomes for their children. Exercise programmes for the elderly can also be effective in depression prevention.