Dealing with depression

Oct 15, 2026 Editorial, News

(Kaieteur News) – Depression is not a character flaw, a sign of weakness or simply a bad mood that will disappear with a little encouragement. It is a serious medical condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, social standing or religious belief. Yet, in Guyana, where people are often expected to endure hardship in silence, depression is too easily dismissed as merely “feeling low”. This attitude must change.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that approximately 280 million people worldwide experience depression. The condition affects people across all walks of life, with women experiencing it more frequently than men. Depression is also a significant concern among young people, while its consequences can be devastating when symptoms go unrecognised and treatment is inaccessible.