Srinagar, Oct 10 (KNO): On World Mental Health Day, experts have called for the urgent need for a detailed assessment of mental health issues within the general population to better understand the current landscape and improve services.
Speaking with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), mental health professionals said that while services have improved, they remain insufficient to meet the needs of the entire population.
Dr Nizam Ud Din, a psychiatrist at SKIMS Bemina, said the theme for World Mental Health Day 2024 is "It is time to prioritise mental health in the workplace". He said there are two significant barriers to mental health care: stigma and the shortage of qualified professionals.
"Reducing stigma is essential," Dr Nizam Ud Din said. "This can be achieved through awareness programmes and comprehensive assessments of mental health issues among the general population. Addressing the genuine recommendations from these surveys will significantly improve mental health care."
He praised the efforts of NGOs and the government but called for continuous improvement, which he said can only be realised through feedback from these assessments. "While services have improved considerably, they are still inadequate to address the mental health needs of the entire population," he added.
Dr Shoaib, another psychiatrist at DHSK, shared a crucial message: "Mental health is vital to physical health, and it must be prioritised." He urged the community to break the silence surrounding mental health issues.
"It's time to end the stigma, provide support to those struggling, and create safe spaces for open discussions about mental health," Dr Shoaib said. He pointed out that in Jammu and Kashmir, the stigma surrounding mental health remains a significant barrier for those seeking help.
He explained that cultural influences, societal pressures, and a lack of awareness perpetuate the misconception that mental health issues are something to hide or a sign of weakness. "As a result, many individuals delay necessary treatment, fearing rejection or isolation," he added—(KNO)