Today, Tuesday 13 February, marks World Day for the Fight Against Depression.
Primary Care health centres in the Balearic Islands treat approximately 30,000 people each year diagnosed with depression or major depressive disorder, highlighting the significant impact of this condition on the public healthcare system.
Last year, 29,938 patients were treated, slightly fewer than in 2024 (30,479 patients) and similar to 2023 figures (29,917). Emergency services record over 600 depression-related cases annually, and since 2023, there have been 507 hospital admissions linked to this disorder.
Depression is one of the most prevalent mental illnesses and a leading cause of disability worldwide, affecting more than 300 million people. Between 8% and 15% of individuals will experience at least one depressive episode during their lifetime. According to Spain’s latest National Health Survey, the prevalence of severe depression in the Balearic Islands stands at 8.93%, equivalent to around 112,000 people, slightly above the national average of 8%.
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Health services attend around 30,000 people each year, diagnosed with depression in the Balearic Islands
To mark World Day for the Fight Against Depression, the Balearic Islands Ministry of Health, through the General Directorate for Mental Health, has released a video aimed at families, offering guidance on how to support children and adolescents who show symptoms of anxiety or depression. The campaign stresses the importance of seeking professional help and not underestimating mental health conditions.
Clinical psychologist Neus Zuzama, from the Son Llàtzer Day Hospital for Psychiatry, explains that while mood swings are common during childhood and adolescence, concern is warranted when changes are intense, persistent, or affect sleep, eating habits, academic performance or social relationships. Creating safe spaces for open communication and emotional validation is key.
Warning signs that should never be ignored include:
- Persistent fatigue and low energy
- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
- Social withdrawal
- Feelings of guilt or hopelessness
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
The Ministry of Health is committed to both treatment and early intervention, strengthening emotional wellbeing through coordinated efforts across healthcare, education and social services.
Key initiatives include the recruitment of 16 psychologists in Primary Care and the pioneering introduction of educational psychologists in secondary schools. During the last academic year, these professionals supported 5,700 individuals, including students, teachers and families.
Suicide prevention is a strategic priority under the Balearic Islands Mental Health Plan, with targeted programmes for people over 65 and collaborative actions with the University of the Balearic Islands, focusing on awareness, prevention and early intervention among university students.