The World Health Organisation (WHO) has estimated that depression is the largest worldwide cause of disability, and the fourth largest burden of disease. 

Women suffer much higher levels of depression and anxiety than men. It is not clear why, but despite this disturbing fact, women and men benefit equally from effective, structured treatment. There are a number of ways to access useful treatments; there are pharmacological treatments and psychological treatments. It is relatively easy to start a drug regimen, but it can be a lot harder to find a good, appropriately trained therapist who uses the most up to date, evidence-supported treatment methods. The majority of people who suffer from depression and anxiety do not seek professional help. They may not even consult their doctor although they may suffer increased health problems and have lower satisfaction with life.

One of the main causes of psychological problems is stress at work. The Health and Safety Executive in the United Kingdom estimates that in 2004/5 around half a million individuals in Britain believed they were experiencing work-related stress at a level that was making them ill, and that nearly 1 in 5 of all working individuals thought their job was very or extremely stressful. In the United States, 25% of people view their job as the most stressful aspect of their lives.

The Human Cost
Whatever the source, psychological problems make life harder. They affect relationships, satisfaction with life and income. Yet most people soldier on doing their best. The majority of depression and anxiety remains untreated, resulting in years of poor life quality. Some people find themselves unable to cope. Suicide rates from depression are higher than from any other cause. WHO estimates that 850,000 lives are lost annually due to depression related suicide. What stops people seeking help that will make their lives easier? Some key factors are: general unavailability of treatment resources; stigma attached to having a psychological problem; failure to recognize a psychological problem as opposed to being overworked or 'just going through a bad patch'; or the high cost of treatment. Some people do not believe they can be helped and so do not try to find help. Some people fear they are going mad and that talking about it will make things worse.