Not all wounds are visible

“I dreamed I was missing
You were so scared
But no one would listen
Cause no one else cared
After my dreaming
I woke with this fear
What am I leaving
When I'm done here?”

These lines are so much more than just being the lyrics to a song. They resound so profoundly when a person introspects his/her life. Deep down we all have the urge to leave a mark, to do something extravagant which makes people remember us. Being part of this rat race can be like a double-edged sword. On one hand we have to prove ourselves while on the other we somehow lose the true essence of life, that is to enjoy it to the fullest.

India observed the World Mental Health Day on 10th October, yet not many of us know why its’s observed or the issue it strives to tackle.

A quick Google search describes mental health as “the state of someone who is functioning at a satisfactory level of emotional behaviour.” People all over the world still are not aware of the issues relating to mental health and why it’s an issue which needs to be tackled.

The problem lies in the Indian culture and the taboos related to mental health. According to a study by World Federation for Mental Health, 1 in about every 6 Indian suffers from a mental health related issue yet over half the population cannot recognise the symptoms or realise the fact that the person they are talking to might not be in a sound state of mind. The irony is clear, isn’t it?

Even if a person acknowledges that they are mentally ill, they might not receive the required support from their family or friends. Or be afraid to publicly admit for the fear of being ridiculed. People rather stupidly have a habit of mocking someone when they say they are depressed or just generally down. Due to the stigmas created by society, people who are afraid of what others might say are not able to get the help necessary. Going to a counsellor or seeking professional help are pretty straightforward ways of getting help but people don’t, for the fear of being judged. This attitude of ridiculing needs to be changed and every change starts by one step at a time. The primary need is to raise awareness, let people know that it’s okay to not be in a sound state of mind or support someone who is battling his/her own demons.

Movies like Tamasha or celebrities like Deepika Padukone have tackled the issue and are steps in the right direction. If the general public hears about a megastar like her openly speaking about her struggles, they might become more comfortable in opening up themselves. Or a mainstream movie confronting the problem and thus becoming widely talked about will certainly help breaking the stigmas.

While travelling across the streets of Delhi it is not uncommon to see children begging on the street. The standard of living of these children is not even comparable to the luxuries that the commoners enjoy. Yet it will not be a surprise to say they do know how to make the best of what they have. You can see them smiling and enjoying life and honestly, each and every one of us needs to learn a lesson from them and start living life to the fullest.

Lastly, it is okay to not be okay and it is okay to feel a little lost. Even when you feel lost always remember, the night is darkest before dawn.