Mental Health: Still a Myth for Many in India

General
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Mental health refers to an individual’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It influences how people think, feel, and behave in daily life. It also affects decision-making, stress management, and relationships. Poor mental health leads to lower workplace performance, affects interpersonal relationship and social interactions. The economic loss due to mental health conditions, between 2012-2030, is estimated at USD 1.03 trillion.

National studies reveal that 15% of India’s adult population experiences mental health issues requiring intervention. But still 70% to 92% of people with mental disorders do not receive proper treatment, the question is why?

· Mental health, unlike physical health is still not considered normal and the people who receive the treatment are stigmatized.

· In addition, Ignorance, fear, misconception, faulty attitudes and Superstitious beliefs that mental illnesses are caused by Ghosts, Evil spirits, Black magic, Witch crafts are existing even today that leads to delay in seeking care.

With the national mental health programme first launched in 1982 till Tele MANAS app launched in 2024, may limit the effectiveness of these initiatives if these two hindrances are not eradicated. What do you think?

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More awareness regarding this is required to educate people.

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Yes, some people still believe it’s due to black magic and treated it with ignorance instead of as a normal condition.
More awareness is needed so people start treating it as a normal health condition and seek proper care.

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I think discussions regarding mental health and well-being must be done right from the schooling age. So that, students who are depressed or feel out of the place can come out and seek help. Most of the mental health issues are also being not treated because the people suffering from them don’t feel comfortable enough to share it due to the stigmas around it in the society. Which is why, creating safer environments and one-on-one discussions with teachers, parents and friends can help students in ways by which they can not only help themselves but also help people around them!

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Treating like normal health condition ,spreading awareness and educating people is very important.