Depression is now the leading cause of ill health and disability worldwide, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Ahead of the World Health Day this Friday 7 April, the WHO has revealed solemn findings which show that more than 300 million people worldwide are living with Depression. This figure has grown by an alarming 18% over the last decade, emphasising the desperate need for government intervention and investment in mental health programs.

Considering that the prevalence is twice as high amongst females, than that of males, there’s a prompter to female dominated industries like nursing and childcare, to take moment to ask, “are you doing ok?” Lack of support for people with mental disorders, coupled with a fear of stigma, discourage many people from seeking the treatment they need to live a healthy life.

“For someone living with depression, talking to a person they trust is often the first step towards treatment and recovery. A better understanding of depression and how it can be treated, while essential, is just the beginning,” said Dr Shekhar Saxena, Director of the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse at WHO.

The aim of the World Health Day’s focus is to reduce the stigma associated with the disease and break down the barriers for people seeking help.

So this Friday in support of World Health Day, check in with your team and find out how they are coping.