A new report has found that depression is ranked as the third most disruptive condition in Ireland.
The Lundbeck Mental Health Barometer research shows that two out of three people say they would be too embarrassed to discuss depression with their peer group.
When compared with other illnesses in terms of perceived disruptiveness, depression, at 71%, was rated above cancer (68%), Parkinson's Disease (64%), heart disease (47%), anxiety (32%), diabetes (12%) and asthma (11%).
Commenting on the launch of the report, Professor Patricia Casey, Professor of Psychiatry, UCD and Consultant Psychiatrist, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital said: 'It is estimated that some 400,000 people in Ireland suffer from depression at any one time.
'When compared to previous Mind Yourself research, there has been a growth in the belief that depression is now better understood, however it is still perceived as a very disruptive condition.
'Without treatment, depression can have an extremely negative effect on a person's quality of life.
'However with antidepressants and or cognitive therapy, it can be effectively treated just like any other illness.'
