WHO: Let’s talk about depression – focus on adolescents and young adults

Depression affects people of all ages, from all walks of life, in all countries. It causes mental anguish and impacts on people’s ability to carry out even the simplest everyday tasks, with sometimes devastating consequences for relationships with family and friends. It also affects people’s ability to work and study. At worst, depression can lead to suicide, now the second leading cause of death among 15-29-year olds. Yet depression can be prevented and treated. A better understanding of depression will help reduce the stigma associated with the condition, and lead to more people seeking help.