Mental health is a topic that has gained more attention and awareness in recent years, especially after the Covid-19 pandemic and the tragic death of Bollywood actor Sushant Singh Rajput. Many people are now more open and vocal about their mental health struggles and the need for professional help.
However, there are still many challenges and misconceptions that prevent people from taking care of their mental well-being. In this article, we interview Nivedita Basu, the senior VP of Atrangii Group, a leading digital marketing agency in India. She shares her insights and tips on how to make mental health a priority in your life, regardless of your age, profession, or background.
Q: What are your thoughts on the current state of mental health awareness in India?
A: I think mental health and depression have always existed, but they were not talked about much before. People used to treat them as signs of insanity or weakness. But after COVID-19 and the Sushant Singh case, people have realized that mental health is a serious issue that can affect anyone, even celebrities and successful people. They have also seen the importance of seeking help and support when they are feeling low or stressed. So, I think there is more awareness and acceptance of mental health issues now, which is great.
Q: Do you think mental health issues are more prevalent among teenagers than adults?
A: I don’t think mental health issues are age-specific. They can affect anyone at any stage of life. But I do think that teenagers are more vocal and expressive about their mental health problems than adults. They are also more exposed to the pressures and influences of social media, peer pressure, academic expectations, and celebrity culture. These can create a lot of anxiety, competition, and unrealistic standards for them. I have read cases of students committing suicide because they failed an exam or couldn’t meet their favourite star. These are very sad and alarming situations.
Q: How do you cope with your mental health challenges?
A: For me, the best way to take care of my mental health is to spend time with my family. They are my source of happiness and therapy. I also make sure to take small breaks from work and enjoy life every day. I don’t wait for months or years to do the things that I love. I do them today. Whether it is going out with friends, watching a movie, or calling someone to my office, I do it whenever I feel like it. I think this helps me to balance my work and personal life and keep a positive outlook.
Q: What advice would you give to someone who is struggling with their mental health?
A: The first thing I would say is that you are not alone. Many people are going through the same thing as you. You don’t have to suffer in silence or feel ashamed of your condition. The second thing I would say is that you should seek help from a qualified professional. There is nothing wrong with getting therapy or medication if you need it. They can help you to overcome your problems and improve your quality of life. I know someone who was very depressed and disturbed until he met a counsellor. He got better after getting the right treatment. The third thing I would say is that you should be careful about who you share your worries with. Sometimes, sharing can lead to oversharing and people might judge you or think that you are just seeking attention. You should only confide in people who are trustworthy and supportive of you.
Mental health is a vital aspect of our overall well-being. It affects our mood, productivity, relationships, and happiness. We should not ignore or neglect it, but rather make it a priority in our lives. We should also be aware of the signs and symptoms of mental health issues and seek help when we need it. By doing so, we can live a healthier and happier life.
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