New Delhi: Despite increased focus and research on the subject, there are still numerous myths and misconceptions about mental health.
Unfortunately, there is still a large stigma linked to mental health disorders, with most of this based on outdated thinking and beliefs. As with many things in life, the more information we have, the less likely we are to let misconceptions influence our decisions.
In the not-too-distant past, those with mental illnesses were shunned by society. Some individuals thought that mental illness was caused by malevolent spirits or divine punishment. Although this kind of thinking has been eradicated from much of the world’s societies, it nevertheless casts a long shadow.
In an explainer video by ‘The Health Collective India”, expert Dr. Kamna Chhibber talked about this.
मानसिक स्वास्थ्य से संबंधित बीमारियों को लेके लोगों में आज भी काफी गलत धारणाएं हैं
मानसिक स्वास्थ्य से संबंधित बीमारी हम में से किसी को भी हो सकती है, इसलिए सचेत रहना बहुत ज़रूरी है
इन बातों का रखें ख़्याल, एक्सपर्ट से समझिए @kamna_chhibber
??@20ncounting @akumar2408 pic.twitter.com/WKSdzS8s0z— The Health Collective (India) (@healthcollectif) February 25, 2023
According to Dr. Kamna Chhibber, “not only any individual who is suffering financially but also someone who has everything covered in life can also have a mental health issue. This is totally a misconception that only people who are stressed on living have a mental health issue.”
She further mentioned that “If anyone finds any mental health signs, such as irritability, chaotic mind, stressfulness, restlessness, etc the first and foremost thing that can track towards the solution is acceptance and seeking help. Suffering alone and not sharing or seeking help can make it even worse. An individual should make a stand and support himself/herself first. At the same time, choosing the surrounding environment and a suitable consultant is equally important.”
Suffering alone are frequent, but help is accessible. Everything and everyone needs to work together to dispel the myths and stigma associated with mental illnesses. Although society’s awareness of mental health concerns has advanced by leaps and bounds in the last decade, there is still a long way to go.
