We all face challenges in life. Sometimes, these challenges feel insurmountable, leaving us feeling lost, overwhelmed, or hopeless. In these moments, the most important step we can take is to reach out for help. This act of seeking assistance, known as help-seeking behaviour, is a sign of strength, not weakness.
What is Help-Seeking Behaviour?
Help-seeking behaviour is the act of actively reaching out for assistance when facing emotional or mental health challenges. This can involve seeking professional help from therapists, psychiatrists, or counsellors. It can also involve joining support groups, confiding in trusted friends or family members, or even accessing online resources and self-help materials. Regardless of the approach, help-seeking behaviour demonstrates a willingness to address mental health concerns and take steps towards recovery.
Why Seeking Help Matters
Just like anywhere else in the world, seeking help for mental health concerns in India is crucial for overall well-being. Here's why:
Early Intervention: Addressing mental health issues early can prevent them from escalating and becoming more difficult to manage.
Culturally Sensitive Solutions: Indian therapists and support groups can provide culturally sensitive approaches to treatment and recovery, considering the unique social and familial dynamics at play.
Improved Quality of Life: Getting help can significantly improve mental and emotional health, reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, leading to a more fulfilling life.
Stronger Relationships: Sharing your struggles with trusted professionals or support groups can foster stronger, more understanding relationships with loved ones.
Breaking the Stigma: By openly seeking help, you can challenge the stigma
The Alarming Rise in Youth Suicides and the Need for Help-Seeking
The issue of help-seeking behaviour in India becomes even more critical when considering the rise in youth suicides. According to the National Crime Records Bureau of India (NCRB), in 2021, over 12,000 suicides were reported among individuals aged 18-29. This translates to an average of 33 suicides per day, highlighting the immense mental health burden faced by young people in India.
The rising suicide rates are often linked to the stigma surrounding mental health issues and the reluctance to seek help. Young people may be hesitant to burden family members, fear judgment from peers, or simply not recognise the signs of needing professional support. By promoting help-seeking behaviour, we can equip young people with the knowledge and resources they need to address mental health challenges before they reach a crisis point.
Understanding the Challenges in India
Despite the growing awareness, seeking help for mental health in India comes with its own set of challenges:
Stigma and Misconceptions: Mental health issues are often misunderstood or seen as a weakness of character. This stigma can be a major deterrent to seeking help.
Limited Access to Affordable Care: Quality mental healthcare services can be expensive and geographically inaccessible, especially in rural areas.
Lack of Awareness: Many people may not recognize the signs of mental illness or be aware of the available resources.
Family Dynamics: In some cases, cultural emphasis on family honour or privacy might discourage open communication about mental health struggles.
Promoting Help-Seeking Behaviour from School Levels
Schools play a crucial role in shaping young minds and fostering a culture of well-being. Here are some ways we can promote help-seeking behaviour at the school level:
Mental Health Awareness Programs: Integrate mental health awareness programs into the curriculum, educating students about different mental health conditions, coping mechanisms, and the importance of seeking help.
Counselling Services: Make qualified counsellors readily available in schools, creating a safe space for students to confide in and receive confidential support.
Peer Support Groups: Encourage the formation of peer support groups where students can connect, share experiences, and learn from each other's coping strategies.
Teacher Training: Train teachers to identify signs of mental distress in students and provide resources and support for help-seeking behaviour.
Open Communication: Create an environment where open communication about mental health is encouraged. This can involve workshops for parents and teachers on how to talk to their children about mental health.
Remember, You Are Not Alone
Reaching out for help is a sign of strength and self-awareness. It demonstrates a willingness to take control of your well-being and create a brighter future. Here are some resources specifically focused on mental health support in India:
The Banyan: https://thebanyan.org/
The MIND Foundation: https://www.mindsfoundation.org/
AASRA: [AASRA website india ON AASRA helplineindia.org] (24/7 helpline)
National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS): [National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences Bangalore ON National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences nimhans.ac.in]
Conclusion
Reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness but rather an indication of strength and self-awareness. By promoting help-seeking behaviour, we can create a supportive environment where individuals feel empowered to prioritise their mental well-being. Remember, you are not alone, and there are resources available to support you on your journey to better mental health.
REFERENCES
The Banyan. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://thebanyan.org/
The MIND Foundation. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.mindsfoundation.org/
AASRA. (n.d.). Retrieved from AASRA website (24/7 helpline)
National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS). (n.d.). Retrieved from NIMHANS website
Well addressed the point of seeking help.
Nicely written
seeking help is so brave!!
Nice and informative
Really helpful