Time to end the social stigma around mental health

Mental health matters. It’s about time to end the taboo surrounding mental-health in India.

“You’re anxious and struggling? That’s such an entitled problem to have, Rachita. Only people who have nothing to worry about in life like you, have these issues.”

One of my friends said this to me two years back when I confided to her that I’ve been struggling with anxiety. At that point of time, I felt ashamed of myself. Ashamed as I did not have to worry about basic necessities like food and shelter. I started thinking that my friend was right- maybe I am making a mountain out of a molehill. After all, what do I have to worry about — I have an amazing family, great friends and a job I’m happy with, maybe she is correct, right?

Nope. What I didn’t realise then (and I wish my friend had supported me when I confided) is that unlike the common misconception, mental health has nothing to do with being privileged. Nowhere near it infact. Anyone can have it — it is caused by a reaction to environmental stresses, genetic factors or biochemical imbalances, or a combination of these factors.

Did you know that according to industry reports and research, India is one of the most depressed countries in the world? Over 60 million Indians suffer from some form of mental illness or the other. This high number definitely signifies that there is a mental health crisis in India and we should no longer brush it under the carpet. It is time we understand, accept and support people who are struggling with mental health issues.

Times are tough and uncertainty seems to be constantly lurking around us with respect to what the future holds — whether it is our job security, personal relationships or health of ourselves or loved ones. Many Indians are battling with anxiety or depression and trying their best to stay afloat.

I’ve seen my family members battle with mental health issues and have to say that it is one of the most heart-wrenching things that you can ever see. To see the people you love struggle makes you feel helpless and lost. You slowly see them loosing their appetite, sleeping for longer hours and no matter how much support or love you shower them with, they don’t feel like conversing.

We cannot always fix it ourselves just through support and definitely need the help and services of a professional.

Personally, I’ve struggled with anxiety and restlessness at different junctures of my life and I’ve been able to deal with it without medicines by finding solace and peace in trying to have a daily routine, journalling, meditation and working-out. Making lifestyle changes has helped me deal with my mental health issues. I understand not everyone will be lucky like me. Will there be a day I need the help of a medical expert ? Perhaps and I will not hesitate to reach out. You shouldn’t too.

I hope that the conversations that we have started regarding mental health on social media platforms don’t die out. That people realise that it is okay to ask for help, we all struggle — it is completely normal to reach out. Infact, please reach out.

Finally, don’t snub people who share that they’re feeling depressed or anxious. Mental health is like any other illness which has sadly been stigmatised.

Please be kind— to yourself and others out there and lend a helping hand to those in need.

Stay safe and shine on!