Riya Sharma, I, M.A. Psychology, Indraprastha College for Women, University of Delhi
When it comes to depression, we must understand that there is a continuum — from usual bouts of sadness, to clinical depression. We must first accept that feeling sad or disappointed is all right; the endorsement of ‘just smile and shake it off’ just contributes to the larger stigma around mental health problems. Starting early is the key. The happiness curriculum introduced in Delhi government schools is a start, but a more research-based approach is required for increasing mental health literacy.
Priyam Sharma, I, Media and Communication, O.P. Jindal University, Sonepat
Depression can only be solved with an individual’s acceptance of the problem and through emotional support. In India, a considerable section of school and college students suffer from depression. Spreading awareness through clubs and societies and by conducting weekly therapeutic activities in can help. Moreover, every school and college must have a trained counsellors and student support group so help is accessible to students.
Akriti Chaturvedi, Final Year, PGDM, Jaipura School of Business, Ghaziabad
The major reason, is people’s lifestyle. Lack of physical activity and stress combined with bad food habits lead to depression.
The best way to get rid of this despondency is to follow a regular exercise regimen as it will encourages the brain to rewire itself in positive ways. Eating healthy food and indulging in recreational activities, too, can have lasting positive results.
Aishwarya, I, MA Applied Psychology, TISS Mumbai.
Mental illness is a term that is misunderstood in India. Depression and other mental illnesses are either dismissed as not being serious (just a low point, or sadness), or come with stigma attached to it that leads to discrimination, exclusion and violence. This is also one of the reasons why those suffering don’t seek help. What is lacking in India is a basic understanding of what it means to have a mental illness.
Thus, people should be sensitised about what constitutes mental illness, much like any other physical ailment.
