Mental health issues are increasing at an alarming rate all over the world and the affected people are from all communities and of all ages. Physical ill-health is normally visible, as opposed to the mental ill-health, that is at times difficult to identify. The latter however leads to depression, anxiety and at times even to suicides unfortunately.
World Health Organisation (WHO), being conscious of this global problem, has declared 10th October as World Mental Health Day. This effort has successfully raised awareness of mental health issues and has mobilised efforts to disapprove this menace. Now the UK government has come forward in introducing the mental health under curriculum changes from next year, in children as young as four. It is reported that age-appropriate lessons will focus on the link between physical and mental health. This had become necessary as the victims of mental health disorders include children, adolescents, adults as also the senior citizens. It is further horrifying that the increasing use of social media, particularly by young adults, is a major cause of this problem.
Bharat Shah
Harrow
