Mental Health - it's time to break the stigma

Mental Health is a global concern and India is no exception to this. As per the National Mental Health Survey of India 2016, '1 in 20 people in India suffer from depression, and it is growing. Unfortunately, as a society, we have always ignored mental health and tried to brush it off in more ways than others.

So, what could be the primary reasons behind this? A basic lack of awareness and sensitivity about the issue, followed by a stigma around people suffering from any mental health issues, could be the reason. It often leads to a vicious cycle of shame, suffering and isolation of the patients by our society. Today many people try to hide their mental illness, feeling a sense of guilt for their suffering and refuse to seek help.

The fact is that our modern urban lifestyle has given rise to elevated levels of stress, anxiety and depression. Losing jobs, loneliness, constant pressure to perform and the recent pandemic are all real problems that have led to an increase in the cases of mental health problems. Depression and anxiety attacks are becoming more and more common.

But we need to understand that Mental illness is a medical condition, just like heart disease or diabetes and the silver lining is that there is treatment and care available for mentally ill patients. At the same time, what is most required is to create awareness and empathy to treat this as any other ailment. This will help people to come out and get medical help and get treated with dignity. Here, friends and family can play a larger role in providing emotional support, followed by early intervention and care by healthcare professionals.

It's OK to feel stressed and get anxious. Follow these steps for mental well-being:

• Try to live a better lifestyle by following a healthy diet, physical activity and breathing exercises
• Avoid addictive substances
• Talk to someone you trust
• Do activities that you enjoy
• Practice Mindfulness (Paying attention to the Present moment)

If you still feel like you cannot cope with the stress that you are facing, seek professional help by getting in touch with your counselor or doctor. Please remember that you are not alone in this and there are steps you can take to support your emotional well-being.

Today, there are methods of treatment for mental health disorders that will help improve and fight symptoms.

Help is just a step away.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the early signs of mental health problems?

Common signs include persistent sadness, anxiety, mood swings, sleep disturbances, social withdrawal, difficulty concentrating, and loss of interest in daily activities. Seeking early professional support can help manage symptoms effectively and improve emotional well-being.

2. Can stress and anxiety affect physical health?

Yes, long-term stress and anxiety can contribute to physical health problems such as high blood pressure, sleep disorders, fatigue, headaches, and even heart-related conditions. In some cases, patients may require support from a high blood pressure specialist or further medical evaluation for stress-related health concerns.

3. When should someone seek professional help for mental health concerns?

If stress, anxiety, or depression begins to interfere with work, relationships, sleep, or daily life, it is important to seek medical guidance. Early intervention and counseling can help prevent symptoms from worsening and improve quality of life.

4. Can lifestyle changes improve mental well-being?

Yes, maintaining a healthy routine with balanced nutrition, regular exercise, mindfulness practices, proper sleep, and social support can significantly improve mental health and reduce stress levels naturally.

5. Why is mental health awareness important?

Mental health awareness helps reduce stigma, encourages people to seek timely treatment, and promotes empathy toward individuals facing emotional or psychological challenges. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can greatly improve long-term mental and physical health outcomes.