Mental health is a state of well-being that includes the emotional, psychological and social aspects of a person’s life. It enables people to cope with stress, learn and work efficiently and contribute to society without much struggle. Without good mental health, one can develop mental health disorders like depression and anxiety, which in some extreme cases may lead to suicide.
A mental disorder may be present when patterns or changes in thinking, feeling or behaving cause distress or disrupt a person's ability to function. A mental health disorder may affect how well you maintain personal or family relationships or function in social settings.
Why is it a big deal?
Mental health issues affect one in four people in any given year and range from common problems, such as depression and anxiety, to rarer problems such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. So, in all likelihood, you could know someone with a serious mental illness. It's a big deal because it messes with how someone feels and thinks and it can be life-threatening.
Every year 7,03,000 people take their own life and there are many more that attempt it. Every suicide is a tragedy that affects families, communities and entire countries and has long-lasting effects on the people left behind. Many suicides happen impulsively in moments of crisis with a breakdown in the ability to deal with life stresses, such as financial problems, relationship break-ups or chronic pain and illness.
In addition, experiencing conflict, disaster, violence, abuse, or loss and a sense of isolation are strongly associated with suicidal behaviour. Suicide rates are also high amongst vulnerable groups who experience discrimination, such as refugees and migrants; indigenous peoples; lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) persons; and prisoners. By far the strongest risk factor for suicide is a previous suicide attempt. Suicide is the fourth leading cause of death among 15–29-year-olds.
For most people with mental illnesses, living with it is like a hidden pain that they must bear silently.
What can you do about it?
Therapy and counselling help a lot of people dealing with mental health issues. Talking to a professional can give you a safe space to share your feelings and get advice on how to cope. Staying connected with people (family, friends, counsellors, etc) who can provide practical help and emotional support can greatly decrease the risk of mental health issues.
Interact with the media for responsible reporting of suicide. Hotlines and helplines provide a place to call or text when someone is feeling down or suicidal. They can connect you with trained people who can listen and offer support. Identify symptoms early, assess, manage and follow up anyone who is affected by suicidal behaviours.
Incorporate relaxing activities such as yoga, meditation or breathing exercises in your schedule. Regular yoga practice creates mental clarity and calmness; increases body awareness; relieves chronic stress patterns; relaxes the mind; centres attention; and sharpens concentration.
Learn coping and problem-solving skills. Identify when you have negative thoughts and try to rationalise/ challenge them. Keep a journal for a week or two to identify which situations create the most stress and how you respond to them. Record your thoughts, feelings, and information about the environment, including the people and circumstances involved, the physical setting, and how you reacted.
Conclusion
Suicide is a serious public health problem that can have long-lasting effects on individuals, families, and communities. The good news is that suicide is preventable. Preventing suicide requires strategies at all levels of society. This includes prevention and protective strategies for individuals, families, and communities. Everyone can help prevent suicide by learning the warning signs, promoting prevention and resilience, and a committing to social change.
Mental health and suicide are tough, but we can make a difference. Reach out to friends, be kind, and let's not be afraid to ask for help. Together, we can build a supportive and understanding world where everyone feels valued and loved. Let's be there for each other and spread positivity to make a change.
Helplines
24x7 Toll-Free Mental Health Rehabilitation Helpline Kiran (1800-599-0019)
1 Life Crisis Support, Suicide prevention (78930-78930)
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