TAKEAWAYS FROM DAVOS FORUM ON DEPRESSION

ON DEPRESSION

>> Depression is the last great taboo of the 21st century — due to lack of awareness and self- taboo.

>> Educate yourself, non- stigmatise depression, talk openly about it.

>> It’s a cold world out there, we need to look after each other.

ON SOCIAL MEDIA AND SELF- CARE

>> We live in a virtual world — a house of distorted mirrors.

>> Download an app ( eg, THRIVE for Android Samsung) and shut down from social media each day for an hour.

>> In that one hour make a deep connection with one person in your life.

>> At bedtime, keep your phone away from you in another room.

>> Exercise every day. Take a walk even if for 10 minutes.

CHALLENGES TO RESILIENCE BUILDING

>> The first five years of a child’s life are critical to building emotional resilience. >> In affluent countries, stressors include high expectations, etc.

MENTAL HEALTH AND WORKPLACE — BEST PRACTICES

Companies must create a mentally healthy and mentally friendly environment. You must invest in your people.

LEND A HELPING HAND

>> Listen to the person. Ask them what they need. Support them

>> Don't judge or rationalise. Empathise.

NEED PEER PROGRAMME IN PLACE

>> Have clear policies of non- discrimination and parity

>> If somebody takes a break for mental health- related issues and comes back to work, there must be no discrimination. Empathise, reintegrate.