Every year, the World Health Organization (WHO) marks April 7 as World Health Day. This year’s theme is “Depression: Let’s Talk”. 

The word “depression” is used and misused in different contexts. Depression is a common mental disorder that affects people of all ages, from all walks of life, in all countries. At worst, depression can lead to suicide, yet the world does not seem to understand the enormity of the problem they are dealing with. Why are we scared to talk about depression? Or if we suffer, why do we suffer in silence? What is this stigma around this illness? The crippling reality of depression and other mental health diseases is that more often than not, it leaves the person convinced that there is no way out. People around them usually don’t even take it seriously and ignore it. 

It is time we changed that, it is time we talked about depression, time we helped those suffering, fight this devastating disease. Depression can be treated and it is not your fault. So, let’s stop saying these things to a person who is depressed.

In case you are, or know a person who is suffering from depression, this video guide will come in handy. This short video provides advice on what to do, what not to do, and where to go for help, and will be useful for those living with and caring for people with depression.

#LetsTalk

Design Credits: Shruti Mathur