A deep sadness that makes the body ache with the effects of an invisible illness, hindering simple daily actions such as getting out of bed, eating, working, or studying. This is depression, already known as the disease of the century, and according to the World Health Organization (WHO), by 2020 it will be the most disabling disease in the world.
Therefore, depression was the chosen theme by the WHO for World Health Day, celebrated in April. The proposal is to draw attention to the disease and incite discussions about it.
According to a recent WHO report, the prevalence of depression in Brazil is already the second largest burden of disability, with the highest rate in Latin America. There are more than 11 million Brazilians diagnosed with the disease, according to data from the National Health Survey (PNS). The recorded prevalence is higher among women (10.9%) than among men (3.9%).
Depression accounts for almost a quarter (23%) of outpatient and hospital care in mental health within the Unified Health System (SUS). The main entry point is the Basic Health Units (UBS), which correspond to 69% of the care and diagnoses performed in Brazil.
Less severe cases of the disease receive follow-up from professionals such as psychologists and psychiatrists, but do not require more extreme care. “This is a very important scenario because Primary Care is the ideal area to monitor mild and moderate cases, as it has teams constantly trained to provide this care,” explains the General Coordinator of Mental Health, Alcohol, and Other Drugs at the Ministry of Health, Quirino Cordeiro.
More severe occurrences, such as lack of interest in social interaction, or those associated with other illnesses like bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, among others, are referred to Psychosocial Care Centers (CAPS).
One of the main forms of treatment for depression is psychotherapy, with sessions according to the patient’s needs.
Although data from the National Health Survey reveals that the frequency of people with depression increases with age, children are also victims of this illness and need specific follow-up.
By Janary Damacena for the Blog of the Ministry of Health