Depression today has become an epidemic of mass proportions affecting a large segment of the population. It is considered a major public health problem and is the second most common cause of death among individuals aged 15-29 years.

People with depression often go undiagnosed and avoid sharing what they are undergoing in view of the social stigma attached to mental disorders. These disorders, if not recognised early and treated with psychological counselling and appropriate medical management may end up as suicidal attempts.

In this background, a Continuing Dental Education programme titled “Depression – The raising menace and tips to combat” was organised by the Department of Public Health Dentistry, JSS Dental College and Hospital on Apr. 8.

Dr. P.A. Kushalappa, Director (Academics), JSS University, in his keynote address highlighted the importance of sharing with close associates when someone experiences a feeling of being stressed and depressed.

Dr. S.N. Manjunatha, Associate Professor, Department of Community Medicine, Mysore Medical College and Research Institute (MMC&RI), while delivering a lecture titled “Depression – A Public Health Challenge” stressed on the causes of depression, its global burden, methods to identify in early stages.

Dr. Aparna Surendra, Senior Consultant and Head, Department of Naturopathy and Yoga, JSS Ayurveda College and Hospital, while presenting a lecture titled “Stress Management through Naturopathy and Yoga” highlighted simple Naturopathy and Yoga tips to combat stress, anxiety and depression.

Dr. Anil Kumar Gujjari, Principal, JSS Dental College and Hospital, felicitated the resource persons while summarising the key points.

Dr. M.R.  Dhakshaini, Vice- Principal, JSS Dental College and Hospital, while recounting her experiences with students having severe stress, anxiety and depression appreciated the importance of organising such events on regular basis.

Dr. B.R. Chandrashekar, Professor and Head, introduced the guest speakers. Dr. S. Sunitha, Reader, Department of Public Health Dentistry, proposed a vote of thanks.

The programme was coordinated by Dr. H.M. Thippeswamy, Dr. M. Maurya, Dr. Lingaraju, Dr. Poornima and Post-Graduate students of the Department.