Childhood Depression: Breaking the Silence

Abstract

Mental health is fundamental to good health and wellbeing, which in turn influences social and economic outcomes throughout life. Most mental disorders begin before 25 years of age, more often between 11-18 years. The burden associated with common mental disorders like depression rises in childhood and peaks in adolescence. India is home to the largest number of adolescents globally, comprising about a fifth of its population (243 million). In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of mental health issues among children and adolescents in India, with depression emerging as a significant concern. Prevalence of depression is about 2% in prepubertal children, which increases to 4%-8% in adolescents.