October 6, 2023: For World Mental Health Day, observed annually on October 10th, Inshorts, India’s #1 English news aggregator, conducted a nationwide poll to understand people’s perception of mental health and their willingness to address issues concerning it. The poll garnered over 4.5 Lakh+ responses across India, indicating growing awareness of mental health problems among people and openness to talk about them.
Comfort Discussing Mental Health:
A notable 55% of respondents reported feeling comfortable discussing mental health issues openly with their friends and family, signalling a growing willingness to engage in these vital conversations. This suggests that individuals are increasingly open to discussing mental health challenges, further reducing the stigma associated with them.
Counselling and Therapy:
When asked about seeking professional help, around 15% of respondents indicated that they have taken some form of counselling or therapy.
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Workplace Support:
Regarding the workplace, a significant 73% of respondents feel that their workplaces do not offer a safe environment for employees to discuss their mental health concerns. Furthermore, a striking 79% would consider leaving their workplace due to a toxic work culture.
Impact of Fast-Paced Lifestyle:
A striking 90% of respondents believe that mental health issues have arisen due to the fast-paced lifestyle, highlighting the importance of work-life balance and stress management in today’s society.
Interest in Mental Health Topics:
In terms of staying informed, close to 53% of respondents actively seek out and read mental health-related topics, underlining a genuine interest in understanding and addressing mental health concerns.
Awareness of Mental Health Policies:
In terms of policy awareness, around 41% of respondents knew that all health insurance policies in India are now mandated to cover mental health.
Awareness of Government Helpline:
Interestingly, only 11% of respondents were aware of “Kiran,” the government’s 24X7 toll-free mental health rehabilitation helpline, suggesting the need for increased promotion of this valuable resource.
Coping Mechanisms:
When asked about daily routines to reduce mental stress, respondents reported various activities, with 43% including listening to music, 19% practising meditation, 15% engaging in reading, 17% participating in sports, and 6% incorporating yoga.
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