‘Mobile use by kids leading to anxiety, aggressive behaviour’

The survey revealed that prolonged social media use increases the risk of mental health problems such as depression and anxiety among children. To raise awareness of the importance of mental health and to mobilise efforts in support of the cause, World Mental Health Day is celebrated across the world on October 10 every year. The theme for this year’s event is – ‘Mental Health a Universal Human Right.’

Hardeep says mental health is equally important as maintaining physical health and it encompasses a wide range of emotions that affect an individual at an emotional, psychological and social level. “Mental ability is how a person copes with mental stress and how it impacts their decision-making power,” Hardeep adds.

Instead of relying on society, the doctor says we need to accept and face our problems. “Contacting a mental health professional is like getting your car serviced. There is no shame. The more we talk about our issues, the more mental health is taken care of. We need to break the shackles of stigma and be open. Remember, your doctor does not want to prescribe a pill or therapy for the sake of doing so, but to help you out of the situation,” he says.

Lastly, shake off the myths around psychiatry medications, suggests Hardeep, adding that such medicines are safe. “We need to wake up every morning to the fact that mental illnesses are just like physical illnesses. Acceptance is half the battle won, and, it is always best to follow the advice of the expert”, he concluded.

Art workshop held

On World Mental Health Week, Citizens for Inclusive Living (CIL) and Society for Rehabilitation of Mentally Challenged (SOREM) Sector 36, Chandigarh, organised an art workshop and handicrafts fair. Jashandeep Kaur, a fine arts graduate and counselor conducted the workshop. “Art sessions can be helpful for persons with mental illnesses in offering a creative and non-verbal outlet for self-expression and emotional release,” said Jashandeep.

Over 40 persons with mental and intellectual disabilities participated in the workshop and as per Sangeeta Jain, coordinator of SOREM, a sense of joy and fulfillment was visible on their faces.