By: Dr. Iqbal Malik
Every year on October 10th, the world comes together to observe World Mental Health Day, a critical occasion dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues. Despite its paramount importance, mental health remains one of the most neglected areas of public health. It is crucial to recognize that mental health is more than just the absence of mental disorders; it constitutes a state of well-being where individuals can realize their own abilities, cope with normal life stresses, work productively, and contribute to their communities.
In our fast-paced, technology-driven society, the changing lifestyle and relentless pace of modern life have adversely affected mental health. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these existing issues, leading to unprecedented challenges for individuals globally. As this pandemic has thrust itself upon us, the lack of preparedness for its mental and social implications is a significant concern. Amid our collective effort to combat the virus, mental health has all too often been sidelined.
According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), mental illness now accounts for approximately 30% of the non-fatal disease burden and 10% of the overall disease burden worldwide, which includes various forms of mortality and disability. Notably, 7.5% of the Indian population suffers from some form of mental disorder, with mental illnesses comprising one-sixth of all health-related disorders. Alarmingly, India is responsible for nearly 15% of the global burden of mental, neurological, and substance use disorders.
While the COVID-19 pandemic looms large as the elephant in the room, we must not overlook the critical importance of mental health. With lockdowns and social distancing measures in place, issues like depression have come to the forefront. The younger generation, in particular, has gravitated towards online gaming and content consumption as a means of escape, further complicating their mental health landscape.
Depression is a significant concern, distinct from normal mood swings or transient emotional responses to life’s challenges. When persistent and of moderate to severe intensity, it can impair an individual’s ability to function in daily life—resulting in poor performance at work, school, and within families. Tragically, depression can lead to suicidal thoughts and actions; nearly 800,000 people die by suicide each year, making it the second leading cause of death among 15 to 29-year-olds. In the Rajouri District of Jammu and Kashmir, depression has been identified as a primary cause of suicides, further exacerbated by the ongoing pandemic.
This common mental disorder affects individuals of all ages, including children and adolescents. Symptoms often include anxiety, disrupted sleep patterns, appetite changes, feelings of guilt or low self-worth, and difficulty concentrating. Understanding that depression results from a complex interplay of social, psychological, and biological factors is essential in addressing this issue.
Fortunately, there are effective prevention programs that can help reduce the incidence of depression. Community-based approaches, particularly school initiatives aimed at promoting positive thinking among children and adolescents, can make a significant difference. Given our current circumstances, it is imperative that parents encourage their children to engage in yoga and physical exercise while fostering a supportive home environment. Such interventions can not only reduce parental depressive symptoms but can also enhance outcomes for children facing behavioral challenges. Additionally, exercise programs tailored for the elderly can play a crucial role in alleviating the effects of depression.
To tackle the stigma surrounding mental health issues, we must work collectively and compassionately. The path toward overcoming this crisis requires cooperation among all stakeholders, including families, healthcare providers, schools, and communities. By prioritizing mental health, we can foster a healed, peaceful, and progressive society—where mental well-being is viewed as an integral component of overall health.
Let us embrace this World Mental Health Day by acknowledging the silent battles that many face and reaffirming our commitment to fostering a community where mental health is prioritized and supported.
The writer is District Mental Health Program Officer, District Rajouri
