ARE YOU MENTALLY FIT? Anjali Shetty
October 10 is observed as World Mental Health Day with an aim to raise awareness on mental health issues that affect people world over
This year, on the occasion of World Mental Health Day, the focus is on prevention of suicide, and the early lookout for its symptoms. Despite several organisations and individuals addressing mental health issues, there is still a large section of people who do not address the issues openly. Experts state that it is important for people to speak up so that the taboos and inhibitions around the subject go away. Here’s how to take care of your mental health.
FOCUS ON MENTAL HEALTH
We tend to ignore signs relating to mental health — consciously or subconsciously. Niraj Doshi, co-founder, Save A Life Foundation, says, “Mental health and wellness concerns are among the most misunderstood situations in this era. Our societies treat them as taboo and the stigma has also led to lack of knowledge and understanding about these issues. What we don’t realise is that mental health can have a major effect on our life. It affects our daily work, family life and determinates the physical as well mental health of a person.”
Dr Samir Parikh, director and head of department, Department of Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences, Fortis Healthcare, says, “Mental health helps determine one’s holistic quality of life. We should focus on it as much as we focus on our physical and psychological well-being.”
DISCUSSING THE ISSUES
Dr Arati Suryawanshi, psychologist, Bhatia Hospital, Mumbai, shares, “The best thing is to keep the surrounding environment highly supportive and free of any stress for open communication. Make them feel safe and loved. They need to feel comfortable and encouraged, in a way that they can explain their feelings. When you sit and talk with your child about their emotions, it is important that you focus on what you’re talking about. It is important to help them learn how to calm themselves down and identify their emotions before you discuss anything. It is usually not a good time to discuss issues when they are really upset, we need to wait until they are calm and open and receptive to feedback.”
Being a parent, one need the best for your children. It is every parents’ concern to ensure and be aware of warning signs that your child may be stressed with. Doshi adds, “You may be concerned or have questions about certain behaviours they exhibit and should ensure that they get the right help. Parents need to remain friendly with their children to discuss topics like mental health. This topic is treated as a taboo in India and people generally do not open up to discuss such issues. As we keep going through life, taking precautions and keeping our mental health well-oiled is the best strategy.”
SYMPTOMS
Behaving out of the norm for the individual, starts showing up initially in sleep and appetite. Too little or too much sleep, as well as food habits, are first signs of deteriorating mental health condition.
Every mental illness has its own nuances. Doshi adds,
“For example, during depression, a person loses interest in everything previously found enjoyable, say music, conversations with friends, etc.”
Ritika Aggarwal Mehta, consultant psychologist, Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre, says, “Each mental health concern has its symptoms to look out for, but in general one should look for the following signs.
■ Increase or decrease in appetite and sleep patterns
■ Sudden changes in behaviour and personality
■ Extreme mood swings
■ Difficulty coping with daily activities
■ Pervasive feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and worthlessness
■ Talking about suicide or showing signs of giving up on life
■ Facing excessive anxiety over daily activities
■ Abusing substances such as alcohol, nicotine or drugs
■ Aggressive or violent behaviour
■ Strange ideas or behaviour
■ Hallucinations