300 cops attend NGO’S seminar on depression

Depression can start with change in habits, like things which once gave happiness are no longer of interest. That is mild depression and we have to stop it there and then. .

Police officials across Maharashtra attended a workshop on World Health Day titled ‘Depression: Let’s Talk’. Maharashtra United Nations Association (MUNA), an NGO affiliated with United Nations, organised the seminar in association with the Mumbai police.

Doctors and psychiatrists spoke at length to around 300 police personnel – representatives of almost the state’s police stations – about depression, its causes, symptoms and treatments.

Dr Megha Patil, a doctor on MUNA’S governing council, said, “There are around 30 crore people living with depression around the world. In the past 10 years, the number of cases has risen by 18% and depression has been one of the main causes of suicide.” She added that the pressure on policemen was higher than ever.

A senior police sub-inspector said the seminar helped him introspect.

“It had an impact on me. I definitely profited from the workshop. There is huge pressure on us, be it from seniors, politicians, citizens or our own relatives,” he said.

Dr Yusuf Matcheswalla, a senior Mumbai psychiatrist, said the police are more prone to depression since they deal with crime round-the-clock.

“According to a National Crime Records Bureau report, there have been 168 police suicides in India between 2006 and 2011. Such things often go unreported,” said Matcheswalla.

He added, “Long and hectic work hours, dealing with criminals and little time off all make them more susceptible to depression. They should get good sleep, eat healthy good and practice breathing well to stave off depression.”

Anoop Kumar Singh, joint commissioner of police (admin) who was also the chief guest said in today’s word, the pres sure begins to mount from child hood.

“Parents pressure their chil dren for high grades. Children’s minds can’t take such pressure and some commit suicide,” he said.

Singh recommended spend ing time with family as a way to ward off depression. “Get involved with your family. Put your phone aside and spend time with your loved ones Nothing else can give you more happiness than them,” he said