Are You Suffering From Mental Health In This Digital Age? Here Are The Solutions For YOU!!

MENTAL HEALTH INTRODUCTION

In the last few years, we have seen a flurry of media articles, tweet-a-thons, Facebook posts, and hashtags making the rounds in the run up to World Mental Health Day—calling for attention to an issue that seems to have reached an inflection point. Campaigns such as #SpeakYourMind, #NotAshamed, and #ItsOkToTalk address mental health stigma by broadcasting personal anecdotes from those with lived experiences of mental health conditions. Yet, mental health still occupies a major share (0.06 percent) of budgetary allocations to health in India, reflective of global budgetary trends (under two percent). The reluctance to appropriately budget for mental health stems partly from a failure to see mental health as a development issue, and an inability to join the dots between mental health and social conditions of poverty.

MENTAL HEALTH IN THE 90s

In the 1990s, mental health issues in India were often stigmatized and not widely discussed. 

 1. Stigma: Mental health problems were associated with shame and secrecy, leading to many individuals and families not seeking help or support.

2. Lack of Awareness: There was limited public awareness about mental health issues, leading to a lack of understanding and empathy.

3. Treatment Facilities: Mental health care facilities were scarce, and those available were often underfunded and inadequately staffed.

4. Government Initiatives: Some efforts were made by the government to address mental health, such as the National Mental Health Programme (NMHP) launched in 1982, but progress was slow.

5. Traditional Healing: Many people still relied on traditional healers and remedies for mental health issues due to cultural beliefs.

6. Emergence of NGOs: Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) began to play a more prominent role in raising awareness and providing support for mental health.

MENTAL HEALTH IN THE GEN Z PERIOD

1. Increased Awareness: Gen Z has grown up in an era with greater awareness and openness about mental health issues. Conversations around topics like anxiety, depression, and self-care are more common, reducing the stigma associated with seeking help.

2. Digital Age Challenges: This generation has been deeply impacted by the digital age, including social media use, cyberbullying, and the pressure to maintain an online persona, which can contribute to stress and mental health challenges.

3. Academic Pressure: Gen Z often faces high academic expectations and competitive environments, which can lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout.

4. Economic Uncertainty: Economic challenges, such as student loan debt and a changing job market, have the potential to impact mental health, especially as they transition into adulthood.

5. Access to Information: Gen Z has easy access to information about mental health resources and support online, which can be both beneficial and overwhelming. 

6. Technology a threat: While technology can provide access to mental health resources, it can also contribute to issues like screen addiction and social isolation. 

7. Diverse Identities: Gen Z is characterized by greater diversity in terms of race, gender, and sexuality, and this diversity can impact mental health experiences, with unique challenges and opportunities for support.

WAYS TO DEAL WITH IT

1.Seek Professional Help: Consult a mental health professional, such as a therapist, counselor, or psychiatrist. They can provide diagnosis, therapy, and medication if necessary.

2.Talk to Someone: Confide in a trusted friend, family member, or support group. Sharing your feelings and experiences can provide emotional relief.

3. Self-Care: Prioritize self-care practices like getting enough sleep, maintaining a balanced diet, and engaging in regular exercise. These habits can positively impact your mental health.

4.Meditation: Practice mindfulness techniques and meditation to reduce stress, increase self-awareness, and promote relaxation. 

5. Remove the stressors: Identify sources of stress in your life and take steps to reduce or manage them. This may involve setting boundaries, time management, or seeking help.

6. Social Connections: Maintain and nurture healthy relationships with friends and loved ones. Social support can be a significant factor in mental well-being.

7. Hobbies and Interests: Engage in activities you enjoy, as they can boost your mood and provide a sense of purpose. 

8. Set Realistic Goals: Break down your goals into manageable steps, and don't be too hard on yourself if things don't go as planned.

9. Limit Alcohol and Substance Use: Excessive alcohol or drug use can exacerbate mental health issues. Seek help if you're struggling with substance abuse.

10. Educate Yourself: Learn more about your specific mental health condition. Understanding your challenges can empower you to manage them better.

11. Medication: If prescribed by a healthcare professional, take medication as directed. It can be an essential part of managing certain mental health conditions.

12. Crisis Helplines: Keep contact information for crisis hotlines or mental health support services handy in case you need immediate assistance.

13. Journaling: Writing down your thoughts and emotions can help you process your feelings and gain clarity.

14. Positive Thinking: Practice positive self-talk and challenge negative thought patterns.

 15. Support Groups: Consider joining a support group related to your mental health condition. Sharing experiences with others can be comforting and informative.

16. Online Resources: Access reputable online resources, articles, and forums for mental health information and support.

CONCLUSION: 

Remember that mental health is a personal journey, and what works for one person may not work for another. It's essential to tailor your approach to your unique needs and seek professional guidance when necessary. If you're in crisis or experiencing severe mental health symptoms, please reach out to a mental health professional or a crisis hotline immediately.

There are many celebrities out there who have come forward and talked about their experiences with mental health and dealing with depression. You can listen to their stories and get inspired and motivated from them to deal with your own mental health problems.

Remember its okay to speak, its okay to ask for help and its okay to not be okay!