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When trauma does not simply fade away: Understanding PTSD
Most people will experience a deeply distressing or frightening event at some point in their lives. War, violent crime, natural disasters, serious accidents, abuse, or sexual violence can leave emotional scars long after the moment itself has passed. For many, the shock gradually eases with time. But for others, the experience continues to intrude into everyday life months or even years later. This condition is known as post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), an…
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Talk about it
One of the biggest obstacles to people getting treatment for depression is stigma. Because many people still feel ashamed of suffering from depression, they are reluctant to admit they have it. They don’t – or won’t – talk about it. Now, if you break your arm, your friends and family will sympathise with you and, in my day, they would sign your cast. Tell them you are depressed, and you get comments like: “Snap out of it,” “Go for a…
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The very real fear of public speaking
Making a speech is right up there with death, divorce and snakes as one of people’s absolutely worst nightmares. Just the thought of getting up in front of a room and having to say a few words can send the pulse racing. Actually doing it can cause palpitations, raised blood pressure, and severe perspiration even on the coldest night. Why is that? Almost everyone has no difficulty in talking to their friends or even strangers when necessary, which actually happens…
Giving a voice to a silent pandemic
my purpose
For the last couple of years, I have been writing a book on depression.
Initially, I was not aware of the sheer enormity of the problem the disease presents to society and the dreadful consequences of it when left untreated.
Astonishingly, 700 000+ people die by suicide every year, and it is increasing exponentially as unemployment, inflation, and astronomic crime levels degenerate communities.
This is a topic that should not be allowed to remain hidden.
Book me to talk to your teams on the important topic of depression and life hacks to help.
‘Running away from your problems is a race you’ll never win. Instead, reach out for help and try to confront them.’ — Anonymous
You can catch david gemmell’s interview on chai fm 101.9 here
five things to know about depression
key facts
- An estimated 3.8% of the world’s population experiences depression.
- Women are more likely to be diagnosed with depression than men.
- Depression and anxiety are estimated to cost nearly US$1-trillion annually due to lost work days (World Health Organisation – WHO).
- Globally, more than 75% of people in low- and middle-income countries experiencing mental disorders, including depression, receive no treatment (WHO).
- Suicide is a significant risk factor associated with depression. It is the fourth leading cause of death in 15-29 year olds.
© David Gemmell 2026
David Gemmell 