According to the World Health Organization, October 10 is dedicated to raising public awareness about mental health issues. Their fact sheet on Depression reveals the following:

• Depression is a common mental disorder. Globally, more than 350 million people of all ages suffer from depression. 
• Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide, and is a major contributor to the global burden of disease.
• More women are affected by depression than men.
• At its worst, depression can lead to suicide.
• There are effective treatments for depression. Though, access to treatment is a problem in most countries and in some countries fewer than 10% of those who need it receive such treatment.

Depression is a serious and alarming situation where most people in the Haitian community often disregard this illness and they do not seek help for proper treatment. Depression is real and it can happen to anyone, at any age, at any social and financial status. It can either be short-term or long-term depending upon the underlying factor and if it is left untreated, depression can leave the individual in a debilitating state. Sometimes, you would hear the word “moun fou” in Haiti (meaning crazy person) to identify an individual who has lost their mental abilities to comprehend and be logic in their regular activities.... Read more