Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions in the world, but it is still widely misunderstood. Many people use the word “depression” to describe ordinary sadness, disappointment or having a bad day. While these feelings are part of normal life, clinical depression is different. Depression can persist for weeks or longer and may affect how a person thinks, sleeps, eats, works, relates to other people and manages everyday responsibilities. A person experiencing depression may lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, feel hopeless about the future, become unusually tired or struggle to concentrate. Some people experience physical symptoms such as headaches, body pains or digestive problems as well. Depression can affect children, teenagers, adults and older people. It can develop after a difficult life event, alongside a physical illness or without an obvious trigger. According to the World Health Organization, depression results from a complex interaction of b...
Mental health is an important part of overall health. It affects how people think, feel, behave, handle stress, relate to others and cope with everyday responsibilities. Just as physical illnesses can affect the body, mental health disorders can affect the mind, emotions, behaviour and ability to function in daily life. Mental health disorders are common and can affect children, teenagers, adults and older people. They can develop no gradually or appear after a major life event, illness, trauma or prolonged period of stress. Some people experience mild symptoms, while others may develop symptoms that significantly interfere with work, education, relationships, sleep or everyday activities. According to the World Health Organization, nearly one in seven people worldwide were living with a mental disorder in 2023, with anxiety and depressive disorders among the most common. Effective treatments and prevention strategies are available, although many people still do not receive the care ...