Looking after your Mental Health and Well Being

A study revealed that in 2017, 14% of India’s population suffered from mental health ailments, including 45.7 million suffering from depression

The covid-19 pandemic has further accentuated this mental health crisis, with reports from across the world suggesting that the Virus and associated lockdowns were having a significant impact on the population – particularly younger individuals.

Mental health issues, which generally manifest themselves in the form of depression and anxiety, take a heavy toll on an individual’s productivity.

These issues may directly affect an individual’s confidence and ability to function and interact effectively and therefore to contribute to society.

Sadly, In India, there is a stigma attached to acknowledging these issues, and also to seeking help and care to manage and resolve them.

Often mental health issues are seen as a result of a lack of self-discipline and willpower. This is not the case. These issues are very real, and can not be blamed on the victim.

Ignoring them can lead to dire consequences. Researchers have found a direct correlation between the prevalence of mental health problems and suicide.

To further complicate matters, these issues often go undiagnosed due to shortages in the availability of qualified professionals in India, especially so beyond metropolitan cities.

How to spot mental potential mental health disorders in Your dear ones

Examples of signs and symptoms include:

• Confused thinking or reduced ability to concentrate

• Excessive fears or worries, or extreme feelings of guilt

• Extreme mood changes of highs and lows

• Withdrawal from friends and activities

• Significant tiredness, low energy, or problems sleeping

• Detachment from reality (delusions), paranoia, or hallucinations

• Inability to cope with daily problems or stress

• Trouble understanding and relating to situations and to people

• Problems with alcohol or drug use

• Major changes in eating habits

Managing Mental Health

The following steps can be taken in order to effectively manage mental health –

• Seek help – reach out to friends, family and if necessary, a qualified medical practitioner

• Eat and sleep well

• Stay busy – at work or through hobbies

• Avoid alcohol and drugs

• Exercise regularly

We can help remove the stigma attached to mental disorders by talking about them more openly and often.

Remember, help is always at hand should you need it.