Panel Discussion - Depression - A mental state or Illness?

Project ID: HMHA0001

Project Description

On United Nations Day, October 24, 2022, the day to help raise public awareness of political, cultural, social, and humanitarian fields , the International Youth Council (IYC) conducted a virtual panel discussion, "Depression: A Mental State or Illness?" live streamed through the IYC's Facebook page and YouTube channel, with various mental health professionals discussing depression, its effects on South Asian populations, and how it affects different age groups. The panellists for this discussion were:

Ms. Akhila Vuntla, ABA Therapist, MS in Clinical Psychology, USA

Annie Pink, Corporate Trainer, NLP Master Practitioner, NLP Psychotherapist, and Hypnotist, ASDA Kampala, Uganda

Mr. Sachin P. Jayashan, Senior Counsellor, District General Hospital, Kegalle, Sri Lanka

Ms. Shivali S. Desai, Special Educator, The Victoria Memorial School for the Blind, Mumbai, India

Duration

Start date : 24.08.2021     

Completed Date : 24.08.2021

Location(s) 

Online

IYC Focal Area(s)

Improving Physical, Mental and Social Well-being

Leadership of the Project

IYC Headquarters

Strategic Partnerships

SDG Number

3

Strategic Goals:

Evaluated various viewpoints on whether depression is a mental state or illness to advance a better understanding of depression.
Aimed to create awareness of the complexities of depression by challenging myths and misconceptions.
Attempted to influence mental health policy improvements with the goal of better preventative measures, early intervention, and improved depression therapy.

Fast Facts:

Challenges

The panel discussion provided critical insights into understanding depression as both a mental state and an illness. It emphasised crucial themes such as the stigma associated with mental health concerns, accurate diagnosis, socioeconomic factors impacting depression risk factors, and the wide spectrum of therapies available.

Solutions

Experts analyzed the data supporting each opinion and examined the symptoms of depression, its impact on people's daily lives, and how it can be diagnosed. This discussion raised awareness, deepened understanding, and fortified people who live in the darkness of depression.

Benefits and Impact 

Had the power to raise awareness about the complexities of this condition and generate empathy and understanding among people who may have minimal knowledge about mental health issues. Furthermore, it urged people suffering from depression to seek therapy and support, understanding that it is a medical condition that requires expert care.
Improved awareness and enhanced support systems for people suffering by this serious condition.