Depression and Anxiety on rise in Pakistan

About :

Anxiety and depressive disorders are common in all regions of the world. They constitute a substantial proportion of the global burden of disease, and are projected to form the second most common cause of disability by 2020. This increased importance of non-communicable diseases such as anxiety and depressive disorders presents a particular challenge for low income countries, where infectious diseases and malnutrition are still rife and where only a low percentage of gross domestic product is allocated to health services. These disorders are also important because of their economic consequences.

Effects:

Depression affects people of all ages, from all walks of life, in all countries. It causes mental anguish and impacts on people’s ability to carry out even the simplest everyday tasks. At worst, depression can lead to suicide, now the second leading cause of death among 15 to 29-year-old people.

In Pakistan relationship problems, financial difficulties, and low educational level are positively associated with anxiety and depressive disorders, whereas having a supportive relationship is negatively associated. Pakistan is one of those vulnerable countries where stress, anxiety and depression are at highest level. Having 200 million population, one out of three are suffering from these curable diseases, according to Dr Iqbal Afridi, the President of Pakistan Psychiatric Society and the Head of Department of Psychiatry at Jinnah Post Medical Complex.

Herbs:

Medications and counseling are conventional ways to alleviate the symptoms of depression. However, some herbs and supplements can also help. In this article, we look at the common herbs and supplements with links to the treatment of depression and discuss their safety and effectiveness. Research suggests promise for some supplements in treating mild-to-moderate depression. These are some of the supplements that people most widely use.

Overall, 45% of studies reported positive findings with fewer adverse effects compared with conventional medications. Based on available data, black cohosh, chamomile, chasteberry, lavender, passionflower, and saffron appear useful in mitigating anxiety or depression with favorable risk-benefit profiles compared to standard treatments.

Tell us:

Have you ever used mentioned herbs for Depression and Anxiety ?

Read More about Anxiety and its herbal treatment,

Read More about Depression and its herbal treatment,