Every year, on October 10th, the world comes together to celebrate World Mental Health Day 2024, a day dedicated to raising awareness and promoting the importance of mental health. The theme of World Mental Health Day 2024 is “Mental Health at Work”

Mental health plays a key role in determining how we feel about ourselves and about others. It is related to how we handle our stress, relate to others, and make decisions. Being mentally healthy doesn’t mean being free of challenges; rather, it means having the ability to cope with the challenges, stress and bounce back from difficulties and enjoy life.

Mental health is more than absence of mental illness; it is a state of well-being that enables individuals to cope with the stresses of life, work productively, and contribute to their communities. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being, impacting how we think, feel, and act.

Mental health is fundamental to living a fulfilling and productive life. As we observe World Mental Health Day 2024, it’s important to reflect on how we can take care of our own mental health and support those around us. With mental health issues contributing significantly to the global disease burden, prioritizing mental well-being is not only important but essential. Mental wellbeing improves individual quality of life, and this contributes not only to the individual or his family but also to a healthier, more resilient society.

When we are happy, we can do things better, make better decisions, care better for ourselves and others, take challenges with courage, make better connections, work more efficiently, all of which translates into a healthier life and improved quality of life and wellbeing.

On the other hand, mental health issues are significant contributors to decreased productivity, poor interpersonal relationships, and overall reduced quality of life. From aches and pains, to sleep and appetite issues. From immune system related issues to reproductive system and to derangements of other bodily function mental health issues bring with it a myriad of health issues. From being more prone to cough and cold to have cardiac issues, cancer, immune related issues, mental health issues are strongly knit in producing dysregulation in almost all of our bodily functions. Moreover, individuals struggling with mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or chronic stress often find it difficult to concentrate, complete tasks, and meet deadlines, leading to diminished performance at work or school. Lowered productivity exacerbates feelings of inadequacy and stress. Additionally, mental health problems can strain personal and professional relationships. Those affected may withdraw from social interactions, become irritable, have mood swings, or struggle to communicate effectively, leading to misunderstandings and conflicts with family, friends, or colleagues. Over time, these issues can spiral and lead to isolation, further worsening the individual’s mental state. Long term health consequences are as grave as Alzheimer’s disease, addiction issues, self-harm and even suicide. Mental illness does not limit itself to the individual but may pass on to the coming generations through separation, divorce, lack and gaps in taking care of the children which will ultimately affect the child’s mental health and development.

Beyond the personal impacts, mental health problems have broader societal consequences. Organizations may experience higher rates of absenteeism, reduced morale, and increased healthcare costs as employees or students grapple with untreated mental health challenges. Communities can feel the effects in the form of higher unemployment, reduced economic output, and greater demand for social services. Addressing mental health is not only vital for individual well-being but also for fostering healthier, more productive societies where people can thrive both personally and professionally. Early intervention, support, and access to care are key to mitigating these negative outcomes.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 1 in 8 people in the world live with a mental health condition. Depression and anxiety are among the most common disorders, with depression alone affecting more than 300 million people worldwide.

As stigma continues to prevent open conversations about mental health, society’s relentless demands further compound the issue. Stigma surrounding mental health creates significant barriers to proper care by creating fear, shame, and misinformation which prevents individuals from seeking help. Many people, influenced by societal stereotypes, believe that mental health issues are signs of weakness or personal failure. This creates self-stigmatization, where individuals internalize negative attitudes, causing them to feel ashamed or embarrassed about their struggles. As a result, they may hesitate to acknowledge their symptoms or seek professional help.

With a lasting fear of judgment and discrimination, individuals worry about being labeled as “crazy” or incapable, or losers, especially in environments like the workplace or school, where revealing a mental health issue might result in negative consequences such as isolation or even job loss. This fear can lead people to delay or avoid seeking treatment. Overall, stigma not only exacerbates the emotional toll of mental illness but also hinders access to timely and effective treatment, reinforcing the cycle of suffering.

As stigma continues to prevent open conversations about mental health, society’s relentless demands further compound the issue. Life is very hectic and busy, guided by societal pressures and the guidelines set by society to reach a certain standard—whether it be owning a house, accumulating wealth, or achieving a specific social status. These expectations often create an overwhelming sense of competition, driving individuals to prioritize material success over personal well-being and happiness. The constant race to meet these standards can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, and burnout, as people feel compelled to work harder and sacrifice their mental health in pursuit of societal approval.

This relentless pursuit can overshadow the importance of personal fulfillment, relationships, and self-care. Many individuals find themselves caught in a cycle of striving for an ideal life by sacrificing their true values or desires, resulting in feelings of inadequacy and dissatisfaction. As they chase after external validation, they may neglect their emotional and mental needs, ultimately leading to a disconnectedness from themselves and their loved ones. It’s essential to recognize that true happiness and contentment come not from meeting societal expectations, but from embracing one’s unique journey, valuing personal achievements, and fostering meaningful connections with others.

A person becomes so entangled and busy in the pursuit of these illusionary and society created goals that he forgets to live a happy life. The entire life becomes a struggle ending not only in suffering and frustration, but also overshadowing the simple joys of existence, self-discovery, and personal growth. This preoccupation transforms life into a constant struggle, where each day feels like a race against an ever-expanding list of expectations and obligations. The pressure to conform to societal norms can induce a cycle of stress and anxiety, resulting in emotional exhaustion and burnout. As time goes on, what should be a journey filled with moments of joy and fulfillment becomes tainted by feelings of inadequacy, disappointment, and frustration. Sometimes it is too late before one ultimately realizes that the pursuit and the goals, they chased were never truly theirs. Instead of finding happiness, they may feel a profound sense of emptiness and disillusionment. By shifting focus from societal validation to personal values and well-being, individuals can rediscover what it means to live authentically and joyfully, transforming their struggles into a meaningful journey of self-fulfillment.

Let us celebrate World Mental Health Day 2024 by stopping for a while running the race that was never ours and look back at our true self. In the midst of chaotic illusions let us reflect on our true selves, our own desires, values and aspiration. This moment of introspection allows us to reconnect with our true self and what we really wanted from life. This pause is crucial in the examination of the path we chose. To realize whether it truly aligned with our inner self.  To realize whether we are chasing dreams that resonate our passions, or are we merely fulfilling expectations set by society?

By looking back at ourselves, we can reclaim our narrative and begin to craft a life that truly reflects who we are. Let us choose to run our own race, one that is guided by self-awareness, fulfillment, and a deep appreciation for the journey rather than solely the destination.

On the occasion of World Mental Health Day 2024, let us pause, breathe and evaluate our mental states amidst the chaos surrounding us.  By doing this, I am certain that we find solace in the understanding that we are not alone in this struggle. Let us take a step ahead and hold the hands of those who are somehow lost in this illusionary pursuit of happiness and transform our individual struggles into shared journeys of healing and support.

Let us celebrate joy, resilience, and a commitment that we are all in the same journey to find peace with ourselves. Let us take a step today for a healthier tomorrow – a mentally healthy tomorrow.