Depression

It needs to be known to every individual that depression that has tremendous impact on mental health is a real medical condition. Reports by the WHO have revealed that depressive disorders are already the 4th (at present 2nd?) leading causes of the global disease burden. Nearly 450 million people across the globe are living with a mental illness and two-thirds never seek any treatment. When it comes to India, 7.5% of the Indian population suffers from some form of mental disorder every year. It is felt that promotion of mental health awareness in every family, community, and in society is the crying need of the hour.

The saddest part is that as a culture, we still don't know how to consistently talk about mental health in a healthy way. We should encourage equality between physical illness and mental illness. It has been proven that up to 60% people with depression are able to come round fully. As mental health remains a taboo subject that is susceptible to age-old stigmas, prejudices and fears, most people have the tendency to conceal their issues and suffer in silence. Speaking about one's own mental health can be impactful and incredibly powerful. We should support people with mental illness and treat everyone with dignity and respect. We should never make one feel isolated because depression is a concomitant of loneliness. Undoubtedly, internet and social media have the power to break taboos and alleviate stigma. Mental health campaign on the social media is the fastest way to reach out to people. The youth can also play a crucial role in leading the way in changing the mindsets of the people. There are several coping mechanisms which may prove to be quite helpful in improving our own emotional intelligence and mental well-being exponentially. Let's mark the beginning of a new public health era in the field of mental health through our participation in dispelling the long-held doubts and dogma.

Dipen Gogoi,

Teok, Jorhat.