GUWAHATI: On the occasion of World Mental Health Day, Assam received recognition and was presented with the award for the best-performing state under the National Mental Health Program in the Northeastern States category. This prestigious accolade was announced by the National Health Mission (NHM), Assam.
The award was conferred upon Assam during the National Mental Health Day Program, which took place at the DRDO Auditorium in New Delhi.
NHM Assam officially shared the news on their social media platform, X, stating, "Assam has received the award for the best performing State under National Mental Health Program among NE States category on the National Mental Health Day Programme at DRDO Auditorium, New Delhi today."
This recognition highlights Assam's dedicated efforts and exemplary performance in the field of mental health, reaffirming its commitment to promoting and safeguarding the mental well-being of its residents.
Meanwhile, a comprehensive pan-India survey conducted by the location-based social network Public App has unveiled that a staggering 90% of Indians attribute the surge in mental health issues to the relentless pace of modern life. The survey, which garnered responses from over 4.5 lakh individuals, also shed light on a positive trend - a growing willingness to engage in open conversations about mental health. Remarkably, 55% of the respondents acknowledged feeling comfortable discussing mental health challenges with friends and family.
"The significant number of respondents citing the fast-paced lifestyle as the cause of rising mental health concerns underscores the importance of maintaining work-life balance and effectively managing stress. Concurrently, the survey indicates that 55% of respondents are increasingly receptive to discussing mental health issues, thereby contributing to the reduction of associated stigma," read the survey report.
Despite this openness to dialogue, the survey revealed that only 14.66% of respondents sought some form of counseling or therapy for their mental health concerns. Furthermore, it highlighted that a mere 11% of participants were aware of 'Kiran,' the government's 24X7 toll-free mental health rehabilitation helpline, suggesting the need for wider promotion of this valuable resource.
Also Watch: