Doha: The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), and Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC), along with other health partners in Qatar joined the international community to mark World Health Day (WHD), which is commemorated each year on the 7th of April. This year’s theme seeks to raise awareness of depression as the leading cause of ill-health and disability worldwide.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has initiated a year-long campaign that aims to encourage more people with depression, everywhere in the world, to seek and receive help. This commitment is shared by all health partners in Qatar, whose efforts underpin this year’s WHO World Health Day slogan: "Depression: let’s talk".
According to the latest estimates from WHO, more than 300 million people currently live with depression, representing an increase of more than 18% from 2005 to 2015. The limited number of studies that have been undertaken in Qatar suggest that prevalence of mental disorders broadly reflect the WHO’s global estimates of prevalence.
Globally, there is a lack of effective support for people who suffer from depression. Limited diagnoses and professional care access, coupled with a fear of stigma, prevent many individuals from accessing the treatment they need to live healthy, productive lives.
According to a baseline study carried out in Qatar in 2014, the barriers preventing those seeking professional help are predominantly related to fear of stigma.
WHO has identified strong links between depression and other physical and mental health conditions. There is a high incidence of depression in people who suffer from diabetes and heart disease with an increased risk of these conditions among people with depression. There is also an increased risk of substance abuse in people with depression.
According to the statement issued by the Ministry of Public Health, the people of Qatar, like many other nations around the world, struggle to have an open and honest conversation about depression. Misconceptions, fear of social consequences, judgment and discomfort associated with talking about these issues with others, all tend to keep people silent.
To commemorate the World Health Day, HMC, PHCC and other partners organized a series of events and interactive discussions aimed at creating awareness among physicians and the public about depression.
They also took part in other activities such as awareness campaigns to educate the general public about depression, its causes, and possible consequences. The campaign also focused on providing the public with information on available prevention and treatment options.
