Breaking the silence andstigma of mental illness

Mental health refers to our emotional, psychological and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel and act. It also helps us handle stress, relate to others and make choices. Mental illness is a continuous and pressing issue that society struggles to accept. The month of May is specifically dedicated to raising awareness on mental health. We need to break the stigma that has been associated with it for generations. We all need to contribute, at an individual and community level, and accept people suffering from mental health problems. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased mental health problems. Many are struggling with the abrupt change in their daily routines and remaining indoors, especially since they might be cut off from those they love and care for. Mental health disorders carry a stigma. Many dismiss loneliness, depression and other mental issues as an ‘invention of the mind’ and that ‘because we can’t see it, it means it doesn’t really exist’. Having a mental health problem does not make you ‘different’ or ‘unaccepted’. Just like any person suffering from diabetes or high blood pressure can carry on with their day-to-day activities, a person with a mental-health...