On World Health Day 2017, WHO urges you to talk about depression

World Health Day is celebrated every year on April 7 to mark the anniversary of the founding of World Health Organisation (WHO). The theme of this year's World Health Day is 'Depression: Let’s talk'.

With this year’s World Health Day, WHO aims to create awareness about the need for prevention and treatment of depression. Many people are unable to seek help because of the stigmas attached to the disorder. If they are reduced, it can encourage more people to seek the help they require.



Depression is a leading cause of poor health, disability and premature death worldwide. Today’s event is the culmination of a year-long, worldwide campaign by the World Health Organisation (WHO) advocating for people with depression to seek and get the help they deserve.

Globally, more than 300 million people of all ages experience clinical depression. According to the WHO, "depression affects people of all ages, from all walks of life, in all countries."

The disorder can cause mental anguish and impact a person's ability to carry out even the simplest everyday tasks. Many people with depression avoid or limit social activities and withdraw from relationships with family and friends. At worst, depression can lead to suicide.

WHO was founded on April 7, 1948. Since its inception, the organisation has carried out a huge amount of work in the health sector. They have been successful in the global eradication of smallpox and have implemented of a wide range of public health strategies.