'Too few people in communities, governments, and the health sector understand or acknowledge depression.' Citation, summary and selected extracts below.
CITATION: Time for united action on depression: a Lancet–World Psychiatric Association Commission
Helen Herrman, Vikram Patel, et al.
The Lancet, Published:February 15, 2022
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(21)02141-3
SUMMARY
Depression is a leading cause of avoidable suffering, globally. Yet, too few people in communities, governments, and the health sector understand or acknowledge depression as distinct from the other troubles that people face. Not enough is done to avoid and alleviate the suffering and disadvantages linked with depression, and few governments acknowledge the effect of depression on social and economic development. This Commission synthesises evidence from diverse contexts and, in consultation with people with lived experience, generates action-oriented recommendations. Our aim is to promote concerted and united action to reduce the burden of depression and ensure that greater attention is paid to the millions of people who live with it across the globe.
SELECTED EXTRACTS
Decision makers must respond appropriately using the best available evidence and acting on the knowledge that depression has especially profound effects on people living in poverty and adversity.
Investing in translation of knowledge into practice is imperative.
People living with depression benefit from shared or supported decision making with clinicians that is informed by the best available scientific evidence.
--
Neil Pakenham-Walsh, HIFA Coordinator, neil@hifa.org www.hifa.org
