What is Mental Health?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “Mental health is a dynamic state of internal equilibrium which enables individuals to use their abilities in harmony with universal values of society. Basic cognitive and social skills; ability to recognize, express and modulate one’s own emotions, as well as empathize with others; flexibility and ability to cope with adverse life events and function in social roles; and harmonious relationship between body and mind represent important components of mental health which contribute, to varying degrees, to the state of internal equilibrium.”
Why Important?
- It affects relationships.
- Affects attentiveness, concentration, organising skills and communication.
- Affects physical health.
- Affects economic well being.
Age-group that affects more (in India)
- India is the most depressed country in the world, according to the World Health Organisation, followed by China and the USA.
- India, China and the US are the most affected countries by anxiety, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, according to WHO.
- Estimated 11-31 million youth suffer from reported mental health problems in India. As per study reported in WHO, conducted for the NCMH (National Care of Medical Health), at least 6.5 % of Indian population suffers serious mental disorder,
- Majority of people who commit suicide are below 44 years of age.
Factors Affecting Mental Health
Causes of mental health disorders:
- Not being able to cope or adjust to stress
- Chemical imbalances
- Genetics
- Physical or biologic factors
- Psychological factors
- Drugs or substance abuse
- Social and cultural factors
Symptoms of Mental Illness
Global Statistics
Worldwide, 800,000 people die by suicide each year – one every 40 seconds – making it the second leading cause of death among young people (aged 15 to 29), the World Health Organization (WHO).
Mental Illness (in India)
A report by the World Health Organisation (WHO) revealed that 7.5 per cent of the Indian population suffers from some form of mental disorder. Mental illnesses constitute one-sixth of all health-related disorders and India accounted for nearly 15% of the global mental, neurological and substance abuse disorder burden. The treatment gap, which is defined as the prevalence of mental illnesses and the proportion of patients that get treatment, is over 70 per cent. WHO also predicts that by 2020, roughly 20 per cent of India will suffer from mental illnesses and to cater this demographics, we have less than 4,000 mental health professionals.
Source://economictimes.indiatimes.com/articleshow/71500130.cms?from=mdr&utm_source=contentofinterest&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=cppst
Solutions of Mental Illness
- Counselling of students and family members at schools and colleges.
- Educate about the signs and symptoms of mental illness.
- Normalize the idea of seeking support for oneself and others.
- Open discussion and dialogue with the general public, and not just experts on this subject.
- Inclusive environment for people with mental illness.
Benefits of Good Mental Health
- Stabilise our overall health can help us live longer.
- Improves confidence, control, happiness and optimism.
- It helps in social well being of a person.
- Contributes to a more positive community and helps make the world a happier place.
Role of Foundation
- Counselling students, parents and guardians from the expert and related to mental issues.
- Creating awareness among parents and guardians through group discussions. interactions.
- Educate through lecture, seminar and workshop at School, College and Social Arena
- Play as a catalyst role to create acceptance level between children and parents
- Develop curriculum with the help of government and regulatory bodies.
- Help to develop Rehabilitation Centre in required area
