11 Apr 2017

Rising levels of depression in Fiji linked to Cyclone Winston

From , 5:03 am on 11 April 2017

The number of Fijians suffering from depression has risen in the wake of stressful events, such as last year's Cyclone Winston.

The World Health Organisation estimates that there are more than 30,000 people in Fiji living with depression.

WHO mental health officer for the Pacific region, Yataro Setoya says that while there is still a stigma attached to depression, Fiji has made some progress in raising awareness.  

But he told Sara Vui-Talitu that communities still need to encourage people who are depressed to seek help early.

Seven people died in Nasau Village, Koro Island, Fiji during Cyclone Winston which hit in February 2016

Seven people died in Nasau Village, Koro Island, Fiji during Cyclone Winston which hit in February 2016 Photo: Supplied/Fiji Red Cross