Well-Being in Focus: World Mental Health Day 2024

DIKUMONI HAZARIKA

World Mental Health Day, observed annually on October 10, shines a spotlight on the global significance of mental health, raising awareness and promoting support for those affected by mental health issues.

The theme for 2024, “Mental Health at Work,” reflects the growing importance of addressing mental well-being in professional settings. Mental health disorders impact millions worldwide, with depression and anxiety affecting a significant portion of the global population.

World Health Organization (WHO), highlights mental health is a fundamental human right, and everyone deserves access to quality care, support, and protection from mental health risks.

Well-Being in Focus: World Mental Health Day 2024 — Credit: WHO/GILES CLARKE

Mental health disorders affect millions worldwide, with an estimated 450 million people suffering from mental or behavioural conditions (Chaudhari et al., 2024). Depression alone impacts 4.4% of the global population, while anxiety disorders affect 3.6%, making mental illness a critical issue not just in high-income countries, but also in low- and middle-income nations.

By 2030, depression is expected to become the leading cause of the global disease burden, making it essential to develop robust mitigation strategies.

Technological advancements, while beneficial in many ways, have blurred the lines between work and personal life. Employees are often expected to be available around the clock, leading to burnout, stress, and mental exhaustion. Children and parents alike are absorbed by their devices, limiting meaningful family interactions, which leads to feelings of isolation and loneliness.

The shift from joint to nuclear families has further intensified feelings of isolation, leaving many without emotional support and struggling with loneliness. The stigma surrounding mental health discussions further compounds the problem, preventing many from seeking help.

Thus, the modern lifestyle, driven by rapid technological advancements, often isolates individuals from meaningful human interaction. It is crucial to recognize that mental health is just as important as physical health for the proper functioning of the human body.

Addressing mental health challenges requires strategies that focus on both prevention and treatment. Lifestyle medicine and positive psychology offer non-pharmacological interventions that are proving effective in managing mental health conditions. Self-care plays a vital role in maintaining mental well-being.

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) of India shares simple yet impactful self-care tips, such as regular exercise, healthy eating of balanced meals, and staying hydrated to help boost energy and focus proven effective for mental well-being. It is also essential to monitor the intake of caffeine and alcohol, to reduce their consumption for good health outcomes.

Prioritizing sleep, and engaging in relaxing activities such as meditation, nature walks, or listening to music can promote relaxation and relieve stress. Setting clear goals and priorities, learning to say “no” when needed, and acknowledging daily accomplishments/tasks are key to managing daily stress. Practicing gratitude, focusing on positivity, and staying connected with loved ones are also essential for mental health.

We must prioritize and be cautious about our mental health, and observing World Mental Health Day globally plays a crucial role in raising awareness about various mental health issues. Through collective efforts, we can ensure that mental health remains a priority in every aspect of life, and we can create a world where everyone has access to the support and care they need.

DIKUMONI HAZARIKA, PhD. Research Scholar (Political Science), Panjab University. Email: dikumonihazarika1@gmail.com

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