Mental health is not a topic of debate, rather a topic of discussion.
In the current scenario, more and more people are becoming self-aware about mental health and why it is as important as your physical health.
Mental health is a taboo topic, especially in Indian societies, where superficial perfection is considered a benchmark for a successful life.
"Depression is a myth", " Anxiety is just tension", "Prayer is the solution to all these problems", " Eating so and so would heal all such ailments", "There's a place where such 'possessions' are treated", " There's nothing as trauma'
And the best
"This is all because of your phone"
These are some commonly used lines used to invalidate getting professional help, and to add on to the misery, is the fact that these lines are used by the educated and the uneducated alike.
According to WHO, 56 million Indians suffer from depression and another 38 million Indians suffer from anxiety disorders.
It also states that 7.5% of the Indian population suffer from some kind of mental disorder.
Considering the current situation the statistics will only go up.
Amidst these stigmas, it's easy to ignore the signs that you need help. Contrary to popular belief, it doesn't always start with suicidal thoughts, here are few things to look out for to get help in time:
- Change in appetite: An increase or decrease in appetite without a valid reason. Eating disorders are one of the most common mental ailments
- Disruptions in sleeping schedule: Involuntary and repeatedly sleeping too much or insomnia is a common trait
- Feeling unmotivated: Everyone has at least one thing they like to do (even if you say sleeping, there's something else as well and you know it). To not be able to find the motivation to do so for a considerable period of time is a red flag. If you want to get better but find it difficult to try, don't always chalk it up to laziness
- Lack of control over emotions: This is the most common sign, hence popular media's depiction of overly emotional and violent mentally ill characters. This is just one side of the coin, people with mental disorders don't always have emotional outbursts, some can stop reacting at all; some may also get confused about emotional expression
- Dependence or addiction: Subsistence abuse is common and dangerous but it doesn't stop there. Depending or addiction to anything can be dangerous and a sign of mental deterioration. Online games are a common example.
In times that are tough on us, let’s be kinder towards people close to us. It only takes a minute to say something kind to a loved one or even a stranger. We shall be back stronger, take care, stay home & stay safe.