Why Mental Health? | StrongMinds

Why Mental Health?

The Global Depression Epidemic

How depression affects families, individuals, and communities.

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The Need

StrongMinds is working to end the global depression epidemic.

280 million people
experience depression disorders globally.

Up to 85% of people
in low-income countries have no access to treatment.

Women are affected
at 2x the rate of men.

Understanding Depression

Depression is a common mood disorder that affects the mind and body. It can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, religion, or socio-economic status.

Common Signs and Symptoms

  • Extreme sadness
  • Disturbed sleep or appetite
  • Dramatic mood swings
  • Anger, frustration, or irritability
  • Fatigue and lack of energy not alleviated by sleeping
  • Inability to concentrate or make decisions
  • Feelings of guilt or low self-worth
  • Excessive worrying or fear
  • Agitation or physical restlessness
  • Avoidance of social activities
  • Physical symptoms, such as headaches, stomach aches, and back aches.
  • Hopelessness and a general loss of interest in life
  • Thoughts or acts of suicide or self-harm

HOW IS DEPRESSION DIFFERENT FROM STRESS OR SADNESS?

Depression is different from usual changes in moods and emotions (such as sadness or stress) that naturally occur in reaction to the challenges in everyday life, and diminish over time. Depression is a sustained feeling that can go on for weeks, months, or even years.

How do we treat depression at scale?

The benefits of treating depression.

When people recover from depression, they change the world around them.

 

OUR IMPACT
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Mental Health Treatment Gap

Mental Health and Sustainable Development