IMPORTANCE OF MENTAL HEALTH

Mental health is very important at every stage of life , from childhood to adulthood. It includes our emotinal,psycological and social well-being. It affects how we think,feel and act. It also helps to determine how we handle stress,relate to others and make healthy choices. Mental and Physical health are equally important components of overall health. For e.g depression increases the risk for many types of physical health problems, particulary long-lasting conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Similarly, the presence of chronic conditions can increase the risk for mental illness.

It's important to remember that a person’s mental health can change over time, depending on many factors. When the demands placed on a person exceed their resources and coping abilities, their mental health could be impacted. For example, if someone is working long hours, caring for a relative, or experiencing economic hardship, they may experience poor mental health. WHO also estimates that about 7.5 per cent Indians suffer from some mental disorder and this number keeps on increasing. According to the numbers, 56 million Indians suffer from depression and another 38 million Indians suffer from anxiety disorders.

The Covid-19 outbreak has added to the numbers. As due to covid many things were closed for a long period of time resulting in financial tension, loss of near-ones etc. There is no single cause for mental illness. A number of factors can contribute to risk for mental illness, such as 1.)Early adverse life experiences, such as trauma or a history of abuse (for example, child abuse, sexual assault, witnessing violence, etc.) 2.)Experiences related to other ongoing (chronic) medical conditions, such as cancer or diabetes. 3.)Biological factors or chemical imbalances in the brain. 4.)Use of alcohol or drugs. 5.)Having feelings of loneliness or isolation.