Education
World Mental Health Day 2023: Mental Health Awareness in Schools and Educational Institutions
The WHO defines Mental Health as, “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. It is an integral component of health and well-being that underpins our individual and collective abilities to make decisions, build relationships and shape the world we live in “.
As we mark Mental Health Day 2023 in the month of October, it is a moment to ponder the progress we have achieved and the distance that still lies ahead.
Mental health in India presents a pressing concern, marked by a complex interplay of factors, and hindered by longstanding stigma. Reports indicate a significant gap between the need for mental healthcare and its actual utilization. Studies by UNICEF and Statista highlight the reluctance in seeking support, with only 41% of young Indians recognizing the importance of mental health assistance. Approximately 14% of the population suffers from mental disorders, with older adult females being predominantly affected. Despite efforts like the National Mental Health Programme (NMHP) and the Mental Healthcare Act, a staggering 80% of Indians do not access mental healthcare due to reasons ranging from lack of awareness to financial constraints and societal stigma. This discrepancy has far-reaching consequences, impacting physical health, cognitive functions, relationships, productivity, emotional well-being, and even leading to self-harm and social withdrawal.
On the dire statistics of mental health in India, Shailesh Prithani, Founder & CEO, Jumbaya said, “The Indian Journal of Psychiatry’s report highlighted a stark reality: 50 million Indian children grapple with mental health challenges, with 80 to 90 percent remaining untreated. Shockingly, there are only 0.75 psychiatrists per 100,000 patients in India. Given this situation, it is imperative that India introduces a mental health awareness curriculum in schools. Many childhood mental health issues go unnoticed due to a lack of awareness. This initiative is a crucial preventive measure, ensuring that today’s children grow into mentally resilient adults, cherishing their carefree childhoods and taking active steps to prioritise and care for their mental health.”
The repercussions of poor mental health extend across various aspects of life, including physical health problems such as cardiovascular issues, impaired cognitive functions affecting academic and work performance, and strained relationships leading to isolation and conflict. Prof. (Dr.) M. Viswanathaiah, Director, IFIM College said, “Mental health problems can have a significant impact on students’ academic performance, relationships, and overall well-being. Without proper support, students who are struggling with mental health problems may be more likely to drop out of school, engage in risky behaviors, or even commit suicide. By incorporating mental health awareness into the educational curriculum, schools can play a vital role in helping students develop the skills and knowledge they need to maintain good mental health.”
Furthermore, it diminishes productivity in both academic and professional settings, potentially causing missed opportunities and career setbacks. Emotionally, individuals experience persistent negative feelings, which, coupled with substance abuse as a coping mechanism, can lead to addiction. Physically, mental health issues manifest as headaches, digestive problems, and muscle tension, while severe conditions may result in self-harm and an increased risk of suicide. “According to a 2019 report by the World Health Organization, India has the highest suicide rate among youth aged 15-29 in the world. Additionally, a 2020 study by the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences found that nearly 14% of Indian students experience depression and anxiety.” He further elaborated on the consequences of the lack of awareness. There are financial consequences due to treatment costs and decreased productivity, further exacerbating the problem. While efforts have been made to address mental health in India, a collective shift in societal attitudes, coupled with increased awareness and accessible services, is crucial to bridging the existing gaps and ensuring a mentally healthier nation.
Mental Health in Schools
Mental health awareness is a crucial aspect of a student’s well-being. According to the World Health Organization, half of all mental illnesses begin by the age of 14 and often go undetected and untreated. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated the situation, with students facing unprecedented levels of stress and anxiety.
To address this issue, schools in India need to prioritize mental health awareness. One way to do this is by incorporating psychology as a major subject in the curriculum. This will help students understand the importance of mental health and equip them with the tools to manage their own mental health. Schools can also appoint psychologists or psychiatrists to provide counselling services to students who need it. Hemant Gaule, Dean at SCoRe (School of Communications and Reputation), emphasises on the need for students to take charge of this narrative. He said, “The biggest injustice to mental health that academics can do is to treat it as another item on a checklist. Unless it is truly understood, it does not work. In an environment that increasingly consists of Gen Z, who are not only more aware of, but rightfully prioritising their mental health, it is paramount for academia to familiarise and sensitise itself on the tenets of mental health, and integrate it seamlessly into curricula. That’s why at our institute we encourage our students to lead this conversation from the front, provide direction that the institution can take, and we merely act as enablers to create the ideal environment where they can thrive.”
The government can also play a role in promoting mental health awareness. It can support schools in organizing mental health awareness programs and provide funding for research on mental health issues in schools. “In the realm of education, nurturing the mind and soul is paramount. Integrating mental health education, following UMMEED guidelines from the Ministry of Education, is a beacon of hope for students grappling with inner struggles. Our school incorporates life skills sessions in the curriculum, fostering awareness and providing avenues for expression. Students, amidst various challenges, gain resilience, emotional literacy, and self-care skills. This proactive approach destigmatizes mental health, fostering empathy and inclusion through open dialogues.” said Aashna Jain, Counsellor at Rajmata Krishna Kumari Girls’ Public School, Jodhpur.
“Indian subcontinent highlights that the unique challenge of having 1 out of every 7 Indians affected by mental health and wellbeing issues can only be met through a comprehensive understanding of the psychosocial risk landscape followed by concrete and coordinated action.” Said Dr. Vikram Vora, Medical Director at International SOS.
One organization that is working towards promoting mental health awareness in Indian schools is The Live Love Laugh Foundation (TLLLF). TLLLF’s “You Are Not Alone” school program aims to increase students’ and teachers’ awareness about mental health and reduce stigma around the subject.
It is important to note that cultural obstacles such as shame and stigma associated with conversations around mental health can hinder progress. Therefore, it is essential to create a safe space for students to discuss their mental health issues without fear of judgment or discrimination. Schools in India need to prioritize mental health awareness by incorporating psychology as a major subject in the curriculum, appointing psychologists or psychiatrists, and organizing mental health awareness programs.
Deepti Sharma, Director, ThinkerPlace talks about introducing mental health as a subject. “I firmly believe that mental health awareness should be an integral part of our curriculum. Just as we teach math and science, we must also teach our children how to understand and care for their own mental well-being. Incorporating mental health education into our curriculum is not just a choice; it is a necessity. Providing children with education about emotional resilience, stress management, and self-care is important.” She spoke. It is imperative to create a safe space for students to discuss their mental health issues without fear of judgment or discrimination.
NOTE- On the occasion of World Mental Health Day 2023 observed on October 10th, ScooNews has dedicated this week to #ScooNewsforMentalHealth- a campaign amplifying the voices of the education fraternity on the Inclusion of mental health in our curriculum. Stay tuned for the whole week, as we will be coming up with stories and articles on mental health in education.