From the Desk of Editor

Volume 7 Issue 1 January, 2017

Depression – Let’s Talk!

Feeling low or sad, loss of interest in activities that we usually enjoy, difficulty in carrying out daily activities
because of the above, feeling heavy, less energetic, lethargic, no enthusiasm, nervousness, excessive worries which
can’t be removed from mind as easily as before, changes in sleep and appetite, unable to concentrate, feelings of guilt,
worthlessness and hopeless, no wish to live anymore or thoughts of committing suicide often creeping up into the mind. Yes, this is how Depression makes its presence. If these symptoms persists for at least 2 weeks, then it is called as
Depressive Episode – a common mental illness around the globe occurs irrespective of ethnicity, gender, age, occupation and socio-economic status. But one common question across all these, including to us is how many of us talk openly about our depressive symptoms either in us or persons close to us and feel we need to reach out to seek help? The first thing that comes in mind is what if I am labelled as ‘Mentally Ill’! This is the toughest barrier called Stigma prevailing in everyone regardless of their statuses. With this background, it is appreciable that WHO has chosen the theme of current World Health Day 2017 campaign in mental health and particularly in Depression. The Slogan being named as “Depression – Let’s Talk”. It states that “core of the campaign is the importance of talking about depression as a vital component of recovery. The stigma surrounding mental illness, including depression, remains a barrier to people seeking help throughout the world. Talking about depression, whether with a family member, friend or medical professional; in larger groups, for example in schools, the workplace and social settings; or in the public domain, in the news media, blogs or social media, helps break down this stigma, ultimately leading to more people seeking help.” So, let’s not hesitate but talk about depression, as it can identify, help in reaching out to help and even cure depression! Come on, Let’s Talk and encourage others but more importantly, listen when they talk!