Addressing mental health needs, reducing stigma key for adolescent well-being

Addressing mental health needs and reducing stigma is crucial for the wellbeing and development of adolescents said psychology experts on FridayAdolescence is a crucial period of rapid physical psychological and social changes that can lead to significant stress Various studies suggest that stress among adolescents is on the rise posing a threat to their mental wellbeingThis stress can also have an impact on an adolescents psychological wellbeing influenced by inherent biological factors such as brain development and hormonal changes and behavioural factors like being bullied coping skills and resilienceThe effects of bullying leave scars far beyond visible and have longlasting impacts on mental health Many who experience bullying struggle with anxiety depression low selfesteem and even thoughts of selfharmrdquo said Prof Rajesh Sagar Professor of Psychiatry from AIIMS New DelhildquoAddressing this hidden crisis requires a collective effort from researchers educators and health professionals to foster resilience and create safer environments for adolescents he addedHe was speaking at an event held in the national capital to shape policy recommendations and intervention strategies for adolescent mental health in India The event focused on equipping adolescents with essential life skills to enhance their resilience against such stressorsldquoAddressing mental health needs and reducing stigma related to mental health is important among adolescents India is home to more than 250 million adolescents and for the better health of the nation it is imperative that we take all steps necessary to improve the psychological wellbeing of these future adults who would lead the country in the next decadesrdquo said Prof Pallab Maulik Director of Research at The George Institute for Global Health IndiaThe event also highlighted the healthy use of technology and social media emphasising their potential to provide mental health support while mitigating risksAt another event in the national capital Dr Pratima Murthy Director NIMHANS stressing the need for increased awareness and early diagnosis of mental disordersOne in ten people suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder Murthy said adding the condition is like any other disorder and recognising it is crucialThis story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed agencies Midday accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability trustworthiness reliability and data of the text Midday managementmiddaycom reserves the sole right to alter delete or remove without notice the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever