Depression is Number One Cause of Poor Health in the World

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Depression is an illness characterized by constant sadness and a loss of interest in activities one normally enjoys and it is also the number one reason for poor health, affecting over 300 million people worldwide, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

With a growing youth Latino population in America dealing with depressive symptoms, this also brings a concern to higher rates of suicide, anxiety and other mental health issues for this at-risk population.

In fact, research shows the prevalence of depressive symptoms among Latino youth is 22%, a rate higher than any other minority group besides Native American youth and Latina adolescents have the highest rates of suicidal ideation and suicide attempt compared to their peers.

Common mental disorders are increasing worldwide. Between 1990 and 2013, the number of people suffering from depression and/or anxiety increased by nearly 50%. Close to 10% of the world’s population is affected by one or both of these conditions. Depression alone accounts for 10% of years lived with disability globally.

Immortal news also noted that the rates of depression have increased by more than 18% since 2005, but unfortunately people of all races and backgrounds are not getting treatment due to fear and stigma associated with depression.

Latinos also deal with a disparity in the use and receipt of mental health services, including newly immigrated Latinos who are much less likely to seek help due to fear of deportation.

To help reduce these high rates of depression, WHO is starting a mental health campaign, “Depression: Let’s Talk“. This campaign is to help address depression for people of all ages, from all walks of life, in all countries, as depression can affect all people.

The campaign highlights the good news that depression can be prevented and treated, and learning more about the condition helps people seek help.

With this new mental health campaign, WHO seeks to help people seek and get help and learn more about depression’s causes, possible consequences, and help that is available for prevention and treatment.

Overcoming the stigma associated with mental health issues like depression can help people seek help and recover.

To learn more about depression or get involved in sharing resources from WHO’s campaign, click here.

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Mental Health

By The Numbers By The Numbers

22

percent

of Latino youth have depressive symptoms, more than any other group besides Native American youth

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