In today’s fast-paced world, stress has become an unavoidable part of life. Work pressure, personal issues, and social expectations often leave people overwhelmed. While some manage to cope, others struggle with prolonged stress, which can develop into mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Unfortunately, many still see depression as a weakness or an act, leading to fear of judgment and delayed treatment — making the condition worse over time.

Social Media and Mental Health
Although social media connects people, it also fuels comparison, self-doubt, and loneliness. Seeing others’ “perfect lives” can make one feel inadequate, contributing to rising rates of depression and anxiety. Hence, awareness and acceptance are vital to addressing this growing mental health concern.

Why World Mental Health Day Matters
Every year on October 10, World Mental Health Day is observed to spread awareness and remove stigma around mental illness. Mental well-being is as crucial as physical health, yet it often receives less attention. This year’s theme, “Mental Health in Humanitarian Emergencies,” emphasizes the importance of providing mental health support during crises such as natural disasters, conflicts, and epidemics.

Depression: A Growing Concern in India
According to Dr. Prashant Goyal, Senior Consultant, Psychology, at Shri Balaji Action Medical Institute, depression has become a major concern in India. The National Mental Health Survey (2015–16) found that about 15% of adults require mental health support, and 1 in 20 Indians suffers from depression. In 2012 alone, over 2.5 lakh people in India died by suicide, most of them between 15 and 49 years of age.

Urban lifestyle, social isolation, lack of communication, financial pressure, and excessive screen time are key contributors. Often, people confuse depression with sadness and delay seeking help, leading to serious health consequences. Timely counseling, therapy, and medication can completely treat the condition.

How Depression Differs From Anxiety
Although both are mental health disorders, depression and anxiety show different symptoms:

• Anxiety involves constant tension, fear, and nervousness without any clear reason. It often manifests as overthinking, sleep problems, rapid heartbeat, and restlessness.

• Depression, on the other hand, brings deep sadness, hopelessness, loss of interest, fatigue, and changes in sleep or appetite. In severe cases, suicidal thoughts may occur.

Sometimes, both conditions coexist, making professional diagnosis and treatment essential.

Behavioral Changes in Depression
Depression affects both mind and body. Common symptoms include constant fatigue, sleep disturbance, headaches, appetite loss or overeating, and irritability. Prolonged depression can increase the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Behaviorally, people may isolate themselves, lose interest in daily activities, and withdraw from friends and family.

Creating a Supportive Environment
A person with depression needs empathy, patience, and understanding. Family members should listen without judgment and create a calm, stress-free environment. Encouraging light activities, walks, and hobbies can help gradually. Supporting their treatment and medication routine is also crucial. If suicidal thoughts occur, immediate professional help should be sought.

The Role of Diet in Mental Health
Diet plays a vital role in mental well-being. Excessive consumption of junk food, sugary drinks, and caffeine can disrupt brain chemistry and worsen mood. Instead, a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and omega-3 fatty acids helps stabilize mood and increase levels of serotonin and dopamine, the “happy hormones.”