(VOVworld) – A meeting was held in Hanoi on Friday to respond the World Health Day 2017 themed “Depression: Let’s Talk”.

At the meeting (Photo: nhandan.com.vn)

Deputy Minister of Health Nguyen Thanh Long said depression is a serious global health problem, from which about 4% of Vietnam’s population suffers. Most of them haven’t received proper treatment and care.

Long said: “Depression is not a sign of weakness anyone can suffer from it. If you think you are living with depression, talk with anyone who gives you trust because talking is one of the simplest measures to prevent and treat the disease. You should do exercise regularly and avoid using alcoholic drinks and addictive substances.  When you need professional support, come to the nearest medical facilities for specialists’ consultancy.”

Lokky Wai, chief representative of the World Health Organization in Vietnam, said students and teenagers are among the high risk of depression disorder. Schools and families play key roles in educating and providing health care for them.