How often do you ask your friends about their mental health? Do you actively seek out credible resources to understand more about mental health concerns? What are some of the pressing requirements to address the mental health crisis worldwide?
June, regarded as Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, aims at shedding light on the mental health challenges faced by men and encouraging open conversations about emotional well-being. To join in the conversation I asked hundreds on WhatsApp about their perceptions around mental health and wellbeing. Here’s what Yoot’s community of Active Citizens is saying:
- A significant 54% of respondents indicated that the men they know do not feel comfortable expressing their emotions openly.
- Regarding seeking professional help, 40% stated that the men they know are somewhat comfortable seeking mental health support, while a troubling 34% reported that men are not comfortable at all seeking such support.
- 46% of respondents admitted resorting to coping behaviours like drinking or smoking to manage their mental health concerns.
- 80% folks said that stress or any mental health condition ever had physical manifestations like nausea, shivering, or headache.
- On the educational front, a staggering 56% revealed that their schools never had a counsellor.
- Mental health is a pressing need, but awareness levels still dwindle. 30% said that India does NOT have a mental healthcare act, and 34.07% didn’t know if there was one.
- Over 50% said that they have often indulged in self-depreciation. What is our relationship with ourselves? How do we look at ourselves? Are we kind? These are questions that we need to think more about.
- When asked about the most critical steps to increase mental health awareness, a resounding 56% emphasised the need to educate families.
Creating safe spaces where everyone feels encouraged to discuss their feelings openly is crucial. Schools and communities must prioritise mental health education and ensure that counselling services are readily available. Together, by amplifying voices, sharing experiences, and advocating for better resources, we can make meaningful strides towards a more mentally healthy future for all.