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Exceptionalism Of Mental Health

October 10th is celebrated as World Mental Health Day to create awareness among people about mental health. But, in India, the issue still remains taboo and is very less talked about. It can be discerned from the fact that though 1 out of every 7 Indians, as per The Lancet Psychiatry, are affected by mental disorders of varying severity, the status of institutions, human resources and discussions about mental health are abysmally low.

World Health Organisation's findings are emblematic of the inadequacy of the infrastructure and human resources to deal with the problem of mental illness. For every 1 lakh population, there are only 0.3 psychiatrists (against the desired level of 3 per 1 lakh), 0.12 psychiatrists nurses and 0.07 psychologists. But, the nub of the problem lies somewhere else. It is in misinformation and unawareness among the people about the issue. As a result of which they neither seek help nor demand institutions,  human resources and insurance facilities.

Due to unawareness about the cause, impact and prevalence of the issue, it is still considered taboo to have a mental illness. It is seen as a sign of weakness. While other bodily ailments, for example, related to the heart, kidney, liver, eyes, teeth, muscle cramps etc., are acknowledged and discussed, mental illness remains unattended. A false assumption is made that unlike other body organs the brain is completely immune to any chemical or biological imbalances and it ought to function smoothly throughout one's life, from birth to death.

This exceptionalism in the way mental illness is perceived needs to be addressed. But how?

The answer is by "Causing A Chatter". People need to discuss openly that mental illness is very common and as good as (or as bad as) other bodily ailments. It is treatable and curable, and there is nothing exceptional about it.  People who have successfully overcome their mental illness should also come forward and share their story. Such success stories act as both - solace and sword. 

Moreover, we need to create awareness that mental illness does not make a person weak. In fact, due to the taboo, accepting that one suffers from mental illness is an act that shows strength.


This post is part of #CauseAChatter with Blogchatter

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