Many Delhi denizens grappling with depression: WHO

The World Health Organisation data reveals that huge spike in cases of depression, including India.

They also state that 'depression' will be a leading cause of disability by 2030. Following the footstep of other global cities, Delhites are in the clutches of the disease.

"Depression affects more people than HIV or road accidents," said Dr Rajesh Sagar, Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS).

He also stated that the bouts of both depression and disability are severe. "But as the patients continue with treatment, their depression scores reduce. Small things like refusing to socialise, not going to work, no concentration, or inefficiency, are all factors that count as disability," added Dr. Rajesh.

Also, he mentioned that people usually do not consider mental illnesses, especially depression as a handicap.

The disease has taken a major toll in our Capital. According to the Dr Deepak Kumar, Deputy Medical Superintendent, Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences, around four to six percent of Delhi population suffers from depression, however, one in 20 suffer from the current state of depression.

Moreover, depression is significant risk factors for suicides with nearly 15-20 percent of depressed patients possibly commit suicide.

"Mental disorders can be divided into two broad groups - severe mental disorder, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder and common mental disorder (CMD) such as depression, anxiety and others. Broken homes, professional and relationship-related stress are some of the factors that contribute to rise in the prevalence of CMD. Initially, patients came to psychiatrist on reference of general physician but now people reached us directly, they are very much aware," said Dr Kumar.

"Also, females are more affected by the disease. Around 80-90% of patients do not turn up for treatment," added Dr. Kumar.

Delhi records the highest number of such employees, who does work in IT/ITeS and BPO sector, including FMCG, infrastructure, telecom, education, manufacturing and knowledge process outsourcing, including media.

Most of them were in the age range of 20-29 years, followed by 30-39 years indicating such issues are mostly prevalent among younger professionals than older executives.

Dr Henk Bekadam, WHO Representative to India, highlighted that we all are hooked to technology and there is very little place for physical activity. As a result, we lead unhealthy lives. He urged that we find time to engage in sport, yoga to stay fit.

India has about 0.3% trained psychiatrists as opposed to 1% requirement and 0.7% clinical psychologists, when the need is for at least 1.5%.