One out of eight persons in Sri Lanka estimated as suffering from some kind of mental disorder and majority of them are suffering from Depression according to the Mental Health Officer attached to the World Health Organization(WHO) Dr.Suveen Thirapaty.However only 40% of the locals suffering from mental disorders are seeking treatment for the diseases at present and the majority of 60% avoid treatment he has stressed.
Addressing a media seminar held on "Depression" last morning(29) in Government Information Department in Narahenpita (Colombo) Dr.Thirapaty has stated that around 80,000 Sri Lankans annually getting Depression and around 800,000 are currently living with the disease .
Depression affected females more than men and there's no barrier for the disease as anyone at any age can get it Dr.Thirapaty stated.
Addressing the seminar Psychiatrist Dr.Niel Fernando has said that by identifying the disease earlier Depression can be cured without any medication and people with Depression normally have several of the following symptoms for at least two weeks-
The symptoms are-
Sadness,Loss of Energy,A Change in appetite and or weight loss,sleeping more or less,anxiety,reduced concentration,indecisiveness,restlessness,feelings of worthlessness/guilt/hoplessness ,irritability,thought of self harm or suicide ,loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities ,Aches,pains,headaches,cramps or digestive problems without a clear physical cause that do not ease with treatment.
The best way to avoid Depression is to talk to someone you trust (A family member or a friend ) about your feelings he has stressed.Eat regularly and engage in exercises regularly including a short walk are also helpful to avoid the disease he said.
Depression can be defeated Dr.Fernando has said while giving the names of some famous people who managed to overcome the disease like Abraham Lincoln,Princess Diana,Beethoven,Sir Vincent Churchill and local film personality Anoja Weerasinghe.
