Over the last few months, certain events have shone the spotlight on the need to take better care of our mental health. We are living in an era when our psychological well-being is under threat. So, this World Mental Health Day (10th October), let us look into why your psychological happiness is being challenged and what you should do about it.
When WFH became a new norm, we were excited as we all thought that this would save us from physical exertions of travelling back and forth from the office. But unique problems accompany WFH-
The ever-present stress of work overload and conflict is draining us and making us lose interest in life. We feel helpless and misunderstood. This situation gives rise to depression – the silent killer.
Mental health is a universal human right, however the stigma associated with mental health lies deep. It’s estimated that 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men will experience major depression in their lives. Never neglect your mental health.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Ever since the pandemic struck, we have been reading reports of how unstoppable it is. Millions have contracted it and far too many people have died. We not only fear for our own safety, but also for the health of our parents, grandparents or children who are more vulnerable.
COVID-19 has also triggered immense financial difficulties with thousands having lost their jobs while most others are working on reduced pay. So people are experiencing anxiety over how to make ends meet. The endless worrying over health and finances is another reason why so many people are witnessing depression.
Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood, helping us determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices, thus the importance of World Mental Health Day.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
COVID-19 and WFH are here to stay until we have a vaccine. So we have to take action right now and preserve our mental health. Everyone is in danger. But fortunately, there are a few things you can do to deal with all the factors that cause stress and depression-
1. When you are working from home, assign a separate room for yourself which is to be out of bounds to everyone else, including children. Explain to everyone why a few hours of undisturbed peace are essential for work.
2. Share household chores equally with other members of the household so that everyone’s workload is equally distributed.
3. Avoid fighting with your loved ones, everyone is stressed. When you are angry, breathe in deeply 10 times and your anger will disappear.
4. Practice yoga and deep breathing every day. Don’t forget to exercise as that releases happy hormones.
5. If you realize that you have clinical depression, DO NOT hesitate to seek therapy. Depression can destroy your life.
COVID-19 has affected everyone’s mental health. Talk to your loved ones about your fears and anxiety as that lessens the burden. We are all in it together and with proper caution, we will all emerge unhurt from this crisis.
The focus of this year’s World Mental Health Day on 10th October is on suicide prevention. The incident rate of suicides is on the rise. People across age, gender and the socio-economic spectrum are ending their lives. That is why the World Health Organisation has decided that we have to terminate this trend. If people around us might be harbouring thoughts of self-harm then it is our duty to help them. And the best way to do that is to educate ourselves on the risk factors of suicide.
Risk factors are actually situations or factors in a person’s life that deprive them of the will to carry on with life. If a person is unable to cope with these challenges then it will make him/her want to commit suicide. The more the risk factors, the greater the likelihood of an individual attempting self-destruction.
In other words, risk factors are stressors or long-term triggers. If someone you know is facing these risk factors, then you have to keep a close eye on that person for signs of suicidal thoughts or actions.
Here are some factors that can lead to self-harm or self-destruction:
A person is likely to exhibit a few signs that all is not well with life and if you can identify these changes in behaviour, you can help your loved one:
If someone you know is exhibiting these signs then you can take help from a suicide helpline. People who are on the verge of taking their own lives need immediate help. Therapy and support from loved ones can help them find their way back to the will to survive.
Also Read: Does Masturbation Cause Weight Loss? Debunking Sexual Health Misconceptions
Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.
