'Depression: Let's talk' theme on World Health Day: HIDCO hosts medical camp at Eco Park

Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (HIDCO) will organise a medical camp at Eco Park to mark World Health Day on Friday.

The theme of the day this year is "Depression: Let's talk". A recent survey conducted by the World Health Organisation (WHO) suggests that more than 300 million people are now living with depression, an increase of more than 18 percent between 2005 and 2015. Lack of support for people with mental disorders coupled with a fear of stigma prevent many from accessing the treatment they need to have a healthy and productive life.

Depression is becoming the second biggest killer in India after cancer. From the elderly to children are falling prey to the deadly disease. Mood variations and depression are two very common problems faced by schoolchildren these days.

HIDCO's health camp will be set up near gate 4 of the Eco Park. The camp will be opened from 11 am to 4 pm where the health check-up will be free. The residents of New Town have been requested to attend it. As New Town is gradually becoming the hub of several attractions, HIDCO authorities have decided to hold the camp at Eco Park where there is enough greenery coupled with a huge waterbody. Several steps have been taken to increase the green cover in New Town.

In 2016, as many as 40,000 tree saplings were planted by state Urban development minister Firhad Hakim during the week-long Banmahotsav celebration. Swapno Bhor, a park meant for senior citizens has been set up in New Town where the elderly meet regularly and spend quality time.