THE prevalence of mood and anxiety disorders in Shenzhen has showed an upward trend in recent years as the fast pace of life in the city brings mental stress to residents, the Shenzhen Evening News reported yesterday.

The latest statistics released by Shenzhen Kangning Hospital showed that the prevalence rate of depression in Shenzhen is around 3.57 percent. Depression has become a commonly seen disease in the city with a high co-morbidity rate and low consultation rate.

The prevalence of depression in women is higher than in men in Shenzhen, while people between 24 and 34 are more likely to suffer depression than people between 18 and 23. Those who live alone or with cohabitants have a higher rate than married people, while those with high family incomes have a higher rate than low-income people.

Wu Donghui, director of the hospital’s psychiatric department, said that people might be suffering from depression if they show certain symptoms, such as feeling sad, angry outbursts, insomnia and loss of interest or pleasure in most or all activities, for more than two weeks.

Wu said insomnia is a key symptom of depression. “If you always wake up early and can’t fall asleep again, you should pay close attention to it,” he said.

There are 26 hospitals and clinics in Shenzhen with psychiatry departments. Residents are advised to seek medical treatment and psychological counseling in a timely manner after showing signs of depression. (Zhang Yang)