World Mental Health Day (10th October)

In today’s fast-paced world, mental health is gradually enveloping our generations like a dense fog. If you are not mentally sound, attempting to achieve physical fitness alone is merely an illusion. In my view, the sole cause of deteriorating mental health is the unnecessary pressure we put on ourselves, the weight of expectations, stubbornly insisting on doing everything our way, and neglecting to engage our minds in constructive endeavors, while squandering our mental energy on trivial matters.

On this Mental Health Day, I share my thoughts with all of you on this issue, with the hope of raising awareness and aiding those who are struggling. It’s essential to break free from the cycle of mental strain and prioritize your well-being.

The Roots of Mental Health Challenges

·   One of the leading causes of mental health issues in the contemporary world is the unnecessary burden we place upon ourselves. 

The pressure to excel in every sphere of life.

·        The unrealistic expectations we carry,

·        And the stubborn insistence on conforming to societal norms can be soul-crushing.

·        Moreover, our minds often get entangled in unproductive thoughts, allowing trivial matters to dominate our mental space.

Breaking Down the Barriers

Mental health is not an abstract concept but a vital aspect of our overall well-being. It’s crucial to recognize that seeking help or taking steps to improve one’s mental health is a sign of strength, not weakness.

To combat these challenges, consider the following strategies:

✓Self-Care: Prioritize self-care by setting aside time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation. It could be as simple as reading a book, going for a walk, or practicing mindfulness.

✓Open Conversations: Break the silence around mental health. Engage in open conversations with friends and family. Share your thoughts and feelings, and encourage others to do the same.

✓Seek Professional Help: Don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance if you feel overwhelmed. Therapists and counselors can provide valuable insights and strategies to cope with mental health challenges.

✓Government Initiatives:

Governments around the world are recognizing the importance of mental health. They are allocating resources, launching awareness campaigns, and providing support services. For instance, in the United States, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) conducts extensive research on mental health disorders and treatments. Meanwhile, the World Health Organization (WHO) has been advocating for mental health awareness globally.

Your mental health matters, and seeking help is a sign of courage, not weakness.

 Managing Mental Health in India

In recent years, mental health has gained significant attention in India as a growing public health concern. The Indian government has recognized the importance of addressing mental health issues and has taken several measures to manage and promote mental well-being.

Here are some key points outlining the government’s efforts:

1. National Mental Health Policy: The Indian government launched the National Mental Health Policy in 2014, which aims to provide accessible, affordable, and quality mental healthcare to all citizens. It prioritizes the integration of mental health services into the primary healthcare system.

2.District Mental Health Program (DMHP): The DMHP was initiated to provide mental health services at the district level. It includes setting up mental health clinics, training healthcare workers, and increasing awareness about mental health issues.

3. Mental Health Care Act, 2017: India passed the Mental Health Care Act, which decriminalizes suicide and protects the rights of individuals with mental illnesses. This act also emphasizes the need for affordable mental health services.

4. Telemedicine: The government has promoted telemedicine as a means to increase access to mental health services, especially in remote areas. Tele-counseling services are becoming increasingly available.

5.Training and Capacity Building: Efforts are being made to train healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and counselors, in mental health care to improve the quality of services.

6. Awareness Campaigns:

The government conducts awareness campaigns to reduce stigma associated with mental illnesses and encourage people to seek help. This includes events like World Mental Health Day. R

7. Research and Data Collection:

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) funds research on mental health issues to better understand the prevalence and causes of mental illnesses.

8. Helplines: Various helplines and crisis intervention services have been set up to provide immediate assistance to individuals in distress. These services are available 24/7.

9. School and College Programs: The government has initiated programs to promote mental health awareness in educational institutions. This includes training teachers to identify signs of mental distress in students.

10.Corporate Initiatives: Recognizing the impact of mental health on the workforce, many corporations in India have started implementing employee assistance programs (EAPs) and mental health support services.

11.Collaboration with NGOs: The government collaborates with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and mental health organizations to extend the reach of mental health services.

12. Integration with Ayushman Bharat:

The Ayushman Bharat program, India’s flagship healthcare scheme, aims to integrate mental health services into its package, making them more accessible to a wider population.

✓ Education: Promote mental health education in schools and workplaces. Teaching people about the importance of mental health and how to manage it effectively can make a significant difference.

Let’s pledge to break the chains of silence and stigma surrounding mental health. It’s not just an individual issue; it’s a collective responsibility. By nurturing our mental well-being and supporting those in need, we can create a world where mental health is valued as much as physical health.

Together, let's strive for a world where mental health is a priority, and no one has to battle it alone. 

 WHO Report

World mental health day