Addressing The Global Burden Of Mental Health Disorders

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental, neurological and substance use disorders accounted for 13% of the total global burden of disease in the year 2004. Depression alone accounts for 4.3% of the global burden of disease and is among the largest single causes of disability worldwide, and it largely affects women. The cumulative global impact of mental health disorders in terms of lost economic output will amount to US$ 16.3 million between 2011 and 2030.

One of the main reasons why people around the world with mental health disorders suffer in silence and refuse to get the treatment they need, is because of the prevailing stigma surrounding mental health. Breaking the silence takes a lot of courage, and those who take the step to share their stories need all the support they can get.

In this video,?Abigail shares her story and her struggles with depression and self-harm. ?I was terrified people would be angry and judge me if I told them. I found hope when I met people who had been where I had been and were on the road to recovery.?

The Voix?is a creative platform that empowers the voices of global storytellers. For more information, visit: Thevoix.com.