Life is Beautiful, Just be Mindful
Vivek Agarwal, Executive Editor at Psychologs | Professor and Psychiatrist, King George’s Medical University
It’s Mental Health Day, and if you use Social Media, you must have probably seen a hundred videos and posts on Mental Health Awareness already. Posts highlighting the importance of MH and the severe impact this ‘Silent Pandemic’ could have. Ironically, All of it ends on the same note, that It is important for everyone to not trivialise or make fun of Problems related to mental health. Instead, we should contribute to its de-stigmatization and encourage more individuals to open up about their struggles.
Mental health is more than physical wealth. It cannot be and should not be replaced by any other type of wealth. Mental health is an invaluable asset of mankind.
Gopa Bhardwaj, Executive Editor of Psychologs | Former Dean of Faculty of Arts | HOD of Psychology Department, Delhi University
According to WHO, “Mental health is a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community.” Ignoring Mental Health issues can have severe consequences for both the individual suffering and the Society.
In the past few years, there has been a significant shift in conversations around Mental health, with social media playing a major role in spreading knowledge and promoting open conversations. Psychologists and individuals who have experienced mental health struggles continuously advocate for reducing stigma and increasing understanding.
Gen Z, in particular, has been instrumental in normalizing these discussions, making mental health a key topic in everyday life. Their efforts, combined with the voices of advocates and professionals, are gradually breaking down the barriers. The increased visibility and support on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok are helping people feel less alone in their struggles.
Enhanced awareness programmes in society to keep positive mental health is a prime need of the hour. This is true in the global scenario today.
Mala Chaliha Talukdar, Executive Editor at Psychologs, Retired Professor
Even though awareness about mental health is higher than ever before. We have still a long way to go. The Stigma and Misinformation regarding Mental Health conditions create a barrier for an individual and families to seek support. Nearly 80% of persons suffering from mental disorders had not received any treatment despite the presence of illness for more than 12 months. Despite this, the Indian Government spends only 0.06% of its total health expenditure on mental health.
Conflicts can surely be conquered by empathy. Let’s all spread enough empathy to leave no room for conflicts. Wish everyone sound mental health.
Uday K. Sinha, Associate Editor at Psychologs | Head of Clinical Psychology Department, IHBAS
Workplace Mental Health
The Theme for this World Mental Health Day could not be more relevant. In 2024, mass layoffs hit big companies like Google, Tesla, and Amazon, adding to job market insecurity. Many instances of toxic Culture also came into the spotlight. Take the example of the Amazon India Workers, reporting being mistreated and overworked at their faculties. The Case of an EY employee dying due to work stress became a hot discussion on work culture in companies.
Read More: Modern Day Workplaces and Dehumanization
Approximately, 60% of the global population is engaged in the workforce. Workplace mental health refers to the overall psychological well-being of employees within their work environment. Promoting workplace mental health involves creating policies, practices, and resources that support employees’ emotional, psychological, and social well-being.
Mental Health is not limited to an Individual’s peace and prosperity. It is comprehensive and requires collective efforts of various agencies to reach for greater objectives of Mental Health that is Care and Concerns for All.
Virendra Pratap Yadav, Associate Editor at Psychologs | HOD Psychology, SPM College, Delhi
‘Workplace Mental Health’ highlights issues like toxic work culture including workplace bullying, micromanagement, overloading work and underappreciation of its workers. Many Companies like Unilever, Starbucks, Johnson and Johnson etc. have taken the initiative to Address and incorporate activities that promote healthy workspaces.
Everyone must do what they love and Love what they do. Take care of your mental health in the same way you do for your physical health. Smile every day and make others smile each day.
Tushar Singh, Associate Editor at Psychologs | Assistant Professor, BHU
While awareness is essential, it’s the practical steps that organizations and individuals take that will lead to real change in workplace mental health. Companies that acknowledge the importance of mental health not only foster a more engaged and productive workforce but also set a standard for others to follow. So, how can we move beyond awareness and into action?
Companies should promote Open communication, where employees feel safe to share their struggles without fear of judgment. They should also host Mental Health Programs to create awareness and teach about stress management and healthy work-life balance. Training Programs for managers and leaders to identify signs of mental distress in employees.
Read More: How to Boost Employee Morale and Satisfaction: Psychologist Speaks
Encouraging work-life balance through flexible hours, remote options, and adequate vacation time is essential for maintaining employee health. Additionally, addressing toxic environments—such as bullying, micromanagement, and overwork—through clear policies, open communication, and regular feedback is key to building a healthier workplace culture.
There are three forms of worship – physical, verbal and mental, which are performed at the individual and collective levels. All forms of worship and invocation enhance our mental health. Do contemplation, relaxation and meditation to maintain mental health.
Akbar Husain, Executive Editor at Psychologs, Former Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University
