COVID has impacted the mental health of millions of people.The involvement of CSR, self-help groups, caregivers along with mental health professionals can create emotional wellness for all.
This year’s World Mental Health Day- 10 October, comes at a time when our daily lives have changed considerably because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The unprecedented global health emergency due to COVID-19 has impacted the mental health of millions of people. World Federation of Mental Health (WFMH) decided the theme for 2020; which is mental health for all, the focus on greater investment- greater access.
Hence, this year let’s talk about finding better ways to deal with these psychological issues with self-awareness and sensitivity- Common mental health disorders include depression, anxiety. There are various contributing factors to it such as uncertainty, social exclusion, loneliness, confinement, and emotional and economic distress. These are also some of the most common causes of non-fatal diseases in India.
Dr. Sanjeev Kanoria, Founder, Suasth Hospital says “We require a systematic understanding of their prevalence and a better awareness of assessment and treatment options. Let’s also learn that the evidence-based treatment by qualified psychiatrist and psychologist is the way out. The holistic treatment is now moved from an ancient medical practice to data-driven research and technology-based approach, mental health treatment has come a long way.”
“Today the focus on mental health has shifted towards innovation and scaling-up investments. The rights of people living with mental health issues can be protected and promoted through mental health legislation, policy, development of affordable; quality community-based mental health services. The involvement of CSR, self-help groups, caregivers along with mental health professionals can create emotional wellness for all.” said Dr. Sanjeev Kanoria.
It is important to ensure the safety of students future
The past months have brought many challenges for the students, adapting to taking classes from home, with little contact with teachers and friends, and anxious about their futures. According to Dr. Meena Chintamaneni, Registrar, SVKM’s NMIMS Deemed-to-be University says “It is worrisome that mental health might be the prime concern and become 2021 pandemic and it is our responsibility that we safeguard the youth who are the strong pillars of the country. The key to maintaining balance is to constantly engage constructively with students and to help them tackle anxiety. It is important to ensure the safety of their future“.
Students should be kept apprised on the changes happening in the industry due to pandemic, its impact and how to embrace technology to come to the forefront in difficult times. Key learning’s through these tough times is adaptability, agility and innovative thinking that emerges as drivers for survival. Regular webinars, talks, close group discussions and virtual one-on-ones help students to gain a perspective and understand the situation better and deal better.
Additionally, as extremely different set of skills and critical thinking is getting tested virtually, Dr. Meena Chintamaneni says at NMIMS we are exposing students to the real working world and preparing them to combat any situation. The companies are evaluating students on real-time situations and issues, desk reviews and company reports and students are experiencing virtual world in academics, projects as well as internships. At NMIMS, we plan to continue an efficient mechanism that ensures that our students are at par and are stable even at such difficult times! Youth is the strength of our society and nation. Nurture them, guide them to be successful in all situations.”
