Doctors claim that the number of people being affected by depression is on the rise and over the past decade, the problem is setting in at a very early stage among children.

“The general prevalence of depression has increased drastically over the years and statistics claim that by 2020, one in every five persons in the world will have depression. In the case of India, the numbers may increase even further considering the present conditions, but there is no possibility of decrease,” said psychologist Manoj.

A person is said to be clinically depressed when his/her sadness stretches for weeks together and begins to affect daily activities. If not looked into on time, it can lead to suicide, say experts.

“In a day, I see 2-3 patients who either suffer from depression or come with problems associated with depression. The condition is largely due to the drastic lifestyle changes people undergo culturally, financially and socially. Social relationships are withering away and people are unable to cope with the pace of change,” said the psychologist.

Depression is a gradual process that arises when people lose hope and helplessness sets in. But the good news is that like diabetes or any other disease, depression is treatable. Early intervention helps the patients get over the phase easily.

In order to avoid depression, doctors suggest that children should be taught at an early age about how to cope with problems.

“It is extremely important for people to balance the intensity of emotional quotient in a relationship and demands should be less. Support from family and friends is the best medicine for patients to recover from depression,” said Dr Manoj.