World Mental Health Day 2022

Do you Know about it? : Mental Health

 

Mental health in the workplace

During our adult lives, a large proportion of our time is spent at work. Our experience in the workplace is one of the factors determining our overall wellbeing. Employers and managers who put in place workplace initiatives to promote mental health and to support employees who have mental disorders see gains not only in the health of their employees but also in their productivity at work. 

A negative working environment, on the other hand, may lead to physical and mental health problems, harmful use of substances or alcohol, absenteeism and lost productivity. (Source WHO - read more)

Mental disorders are leading causes of ill-health and disability worldwide. According to World Health Organization (WHO) around 450 million people suffer from mental disorders globally. 

One in four people in the world is affected by mental or neurological disorders at some point in their lives. In India, National Mental Health Survey 2015-16 estimated that mental morbidity of individuals above the age of 18 years is 10.6%.

“Mental health in the workplace” is the theme of World Mental Health Day 2017. A large proportion of time is spent at work during adult life. Work is good for mental health but a negative working environment can lead to physical and mental health problems. Experiences at workplace are important factors contributing to overall well being of an individual. Workplace initiatives to promote mental health and to support employees who have mental disorders are not only beneficial to employees but also give gains in their productivity at work.

Harassment and bullying at work are commonly reported problems, and can have a substantial adverse impact on mental health. These health consequences can result into reduced productivity, harmful use of substances or alcohol, absenteeism, increased staff turnover and a negative impact on family and social interactions.

Depression and anxiety disorders are common mental disorders that have an impact on person’s ability to work, and to work productivity. Globally, more than 300 million people suffer from depression and more than 260 million are living with anxiety disorders. Many of these people live with both. One in five people in the workplace experience a mental health condition. (Source National Health Portal, India - read more)

WHO Report On Mental Health Status Among Adolescents in India

According to the 'Mental Health Status of Adolescents in South-East Asia: Evidence for Action', a report published by WHO in April 2017, in 2007,  5.8% population of India was in the age group of 13-15. The report suggested that about 25% adolescents in the country reported being depressed for 2 weeks or more in a row. 

The percentage of adolescents who reported being in anxiety was 8%.  8% felt lonely most of the times or always and a 10% of the surveyed students had no friends. 

11% of those surveyed also admitted to substance abuse. The report also suggested that an active parental involvement reduced the mental health issues while bullying in school and by peers increased the mental health issues and substance abuse. 

PM Narendra Modi On Depression Among Students

These numbers show that depression among school students is not a myth. India is obviously not lagging behind and has identified the problem. In March this year, PM Narendra Modi had addressed mental health issues among students in his 'Mann ki Baat'.

Talking about the taboo surrounding mental health issues he had said, "The problem is that we are unable to fully comprehend it even amongst those around us, and perhaps we also hesitate to talk about it openly, with our family and friends. The person suffering from depression too doesn't speak out himself as he feels a sense of shame about it."

He stressed that the depression needs to be talked about and said, "There is a need to create a psychologically conducive environment to begin with. The first mantra is the expression of depression instead of its suppression."

Possible Solution

While there is certainly some awareness about mental health issues in the country now, the measures to combat it in students is still lacking. Though there is no set formula to combat depression, anxiety and other such mental health issues, one thing which can be achieved is creating a safe environment for children in school and at home. 

Schools can regularly conduct workshops, seminars and one-on-one counselling sessions for students. A Guidance-Counselor at every school can be a valuable addition for students fighting anxiety, depression or any other mental health issue. (Information Source: NDTV.COM - read more)

 References: 

1. WHO

2. NHP

3. NDTV

4. Image Source: WITSU

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