Srinagar, Oct 10 (KNO): In today’s fast-paced world, mental health is often overlooked despite its crucial role in overall well-being. Experts have called for prioritising mental health to maintain a balanced life.
Speaking to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), experts said there are increasing rates of stress, anxiety and depression, for which proactive measures such as mindfulness practices, therapy and fostering strong social connections, are needed.
Dr Yasir Hassan Rather, a professor in the Department of Psychiatry at IMHANS, GMC Srinagar, has a straightforward message for World Mental Health Day: "Make your mental health your priority".
When discussing the stigma surrounding mental health in the region, he said, "Unfortunately, stigma remains a significant barrier that prevents many from seeking help. It is driven by cultural beliefs, lack of awareness, and societal attitudes toward mental illness."
To combat this stigma, Dr Yasir advocated for multi-pronged strategies, including public awareness campaigns to normalize conversations about mental health, integrating mental health education into schools and workplaces, and training primary healthcare providers to recognize and treat mental health issues.
Addressing the impact of unemployment and academic pressure on mental health, Dr Yasir said these socio-economic stressors particularly affect students and young professionals. "This critical phase of life, where individuals are trying to establish careers and educational goals, increases vulnerability to stress, anxiety and depression," he explained.
He added that uncertainty about future prospects, combined with societal expectations and self-imposed pressure to succeed, creates a chronic state of psychological strain.
"Unemployment can lead to feelings of hopelessness, low self-worth and social isolation, while academic pressure contributes to burnout and anxiety disorders. For many, this mental load is compounded by financial insecurity, family expectations, and a lack of adequate coping mechanisms or mental health support," he said.
Dr Yasir said there is an alarming trend in outpatient departments, where more young individuals are presenting with issues like generalised anxiety disorder, depression and even suicidal ideation.
Dr Javaid Ahmad, another psychiatrist, said mental health issues are increasingly prevalent. "A significant percentage of people suffer from various mental health problems today, including depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder," he said.
He said mental health disorders can lead to serious implications like social and behavioural problems, including suicidal thoughts. Dr. Ahmad further said that drug addiction is a major societal concern that requires effective intervention.
He called calling for a collective effort to address the stigma associated with mental disorders, improve public awareness and encourage timely treatment-seeking behavior—(KNO)