KARACHI:
Mental conditions such as anxiety and depression have always existed but were significantly increased and intensified during the Covid pandemic. The sudden imposition of lockdown and quarantine restrictions forced many into isolation and detached them from the world. Loss of jobs and a lack of interaction amongst people put a significant strain on people’s mental health.
A recent survey revealed that 34% of Pakistan’s youth are suffering from depression or anxiety disorder. According to a report, each year 78% of people commit suicide due to domestic issues of which mental illness is the prominent and underlying cause.
Besides the pandemic, another reason for depression and anxiety disorder is the increased amount of time people spend using their phones and comparing themselves with others on social media. During periods of high stress, people turn to their phones to comfort themselves instead of engaging in conversation with one another or participating in activities that do not involve phones. Students are also faced with the pressure to excel in their studies, which can have a detrimental impact on their mental health. Many students today suffer from depression if they are unable to do well in education. Others suffer from anxiety because of the pressure and likelihood of disappointing their parents if they do not achieve the desired results.
Instead of pressuring children into excelling at several things, parents should pay attention to their children’s mental health and wellbeing. If people suspect themselves or anyone around them to be suffering from mental conditions, they should seek support or offer help to others. Therapy, counselling, and psychiatric care should not be stigmatised because it is meant to help individuals. Also, the relevant authorities should ensure that organisations offering therapeutic and psychiatric support and assistance are equipped and qualified to do so. We must recognise mental health problems and tackle them effectively before they spiral out of control.
Pehlaj Kumar
Karoondi
Published in The Express Tribune, October 9th, 2021.
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