Alarming… Over 320 Million Suffer From Depression

Dr. Florence Baingana, Mental Health Officer at the World Health Organization in Sierra Leone has disclosed that 322 million people globally are suffering from depression and claims 800,000 lives annually.

She made this statement at the Ministry of Health and Sanitation Conference Room on Wednesday 5th April 2017 during a press briefing.

Dr. Florence’s statement came as the world celebrated World Health Day on the 7th April, 2017 with the theme for this year “Depression: Let’s Talk.” 

Dr. Florence said, “We cannot have wellbodi without mental health.”

According to her depression is now the top cause of ill health globally, and it brings untold distress to those affected.

“The prevalence of this condition is a wakeup call which tells us that we need to talk more and act more on mental health, and ensure that people with depression get the support they so urgently need!”

She went on to explained that depression is a common mental disorder, clinically defined by feelings of persistent, sometimes extreme sadness that last for more than 14 days; a loss of interest in activities that are normally enjoyed, as well as reduced ability to carry out daily activities.

Other symptoms, she added can include feelings of guilt or low self-worth, disturbed sleep or appetite, tiredness, and poor concentration.

 She said out of 48 countries in Sub-Sahara Africa 42 of them have one or two issues of depression and Sub-Sahara Africa have the highest depression case in the world. One in six women many have a depressing disorder after giving birth.

“There is lack of support and stigma that are associated with depression.  Depression also increases the risk of other diseases. It link to hypertension, diabetes.”

Signs of depression: (Core symptoms)

Moody and less interest in pleasurable activities, 

Other symptoms: Sleep, appetite, fatigue, weight loss or gain, hopelessness, worthlessness, guilt,

What are the causes of depression? Bereavement, spouse, partner, job, property, co-morbid with chronic disorders, conflict/wars, abuse, genetic and poverty.

What are the treatments?

What can be done? Listening and helping

Psychological… IPT, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), medications

Who and Where: All District hospitals and community health officers trained in 9 districts.

“Depression can undermine someone’s ability to function or engage at school, work or in the community; it can cause immense suffering, and at its worst, can result in self-harm or suicide.”

Dr. Alie Wurie, Director of None-communicable Diseases and Mental Health at the Ministry of Health and Sanitation urged Sierra Leoneans to be more open about mental health and do everything in their power to fight stigma against the affected.

“At some point in our lives, mental health issues will almost certainly affect us directly or someone we love, yet they are rarely talked about. We need to change this. We must encourage those struggling with mental illness to come forward for help, and offer our support.”

Programme Manager for the Health Education Division at the Ministry of Health and Sanitation Lansana Conteh pointed out that mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of and they need everybody to know this.

“Communities play a vital role in tackling misinformation and build trust and solidarity, so that those in need know what to do and who to turn to, and feel confident to reach out for help.”

A representative of the Mental Health Services Users Group in Sierra Leone, Paul Kaikai said care and support from the family and community, combined with effective, respectful treatment from health workers can bring dignity, healing and ultimately recovery to those battling mental illness.

“As there is life after Ebola, there is hope after depression.”

Edward Jah represented the Sierra Leone Mental Health Coalition, a consortium of NGOs working on mental health issues in the country.

In his address, he stressed about the continued advocacy to reach communities with accurate information on mental health, so that people will know that these issues are real, that there is treatment available, and provide hope for those in need.

“Stigma and lack of awareness about mental health issues are critical barriers for delivering effective mental care.”

In Sierra Leone, mental health services are now available in all districts, with Mental Health Nurses stationed in almost all district hospitals.

With support from WHO and partners, health workers are also being trained to do basic counseling for those with common mental health disorders and where needed provide referrals for most complex cases. Such services are free and confidential and for many people, provide critical pathways to recovery.

This day will be commemorated around the country with various events in Freetown and all 14 districts, including an essay and painting competition through school health clubs; and a national event and parade.

Story By Ibrahim Joenal Sesay