VIEW
People tend to oversimplify mood disorders, labelling them as mere "mood swings.” They often go unrecognised and untreated due to stigma and cultural attitude surrounding mental health. Many individuals hesitate to seek help due to fear of judgement and societal expectations on toughness.
Mood disorders involve experiencing emotions at a much stronger level than what most people typically feel. It doesn't necessarily mean they switch from happy to sad quickly like a light bulb. Instead, their mood might stay stuck in a certain feeling, like sadness or excitement, for a longer time. It's not like one day they're fine, and the next day they're completely different; the change in mood happens gradually and can last for a while. So, it's not sudden or unpredictable, but rather a more intense and lasting experience of emotions. These emotions can impact daily life and overall well-being.
How have cultural attitudes influenced the perception of mental health issues in Kerala?
In Kerala, cultural attitudes have traditionally viewed mental health issues as a taboo topic, often associated with shame and weakness. This stigma can prevent individuals from seeking help and support, leading to prolonged suffering and isolation. However, as our society evolves, there's a growing recognition of the importance of addressing mental health concerns with empathy and understanding. It's concerning to hear that only a quarter of Malayalees experiencing depression seek professional help. This statistic underscores the need for increased awareness and de-stigmatization of mental health issues in Kerala, as well as improved access to mental health services.
Challenges in Seeking Help:
Despite advancements in healthcare, many malayalees still face significant barriers when it comes to seeking help for mood disorders. Fear of judgement, lack of awareness about available resources, and socioeconomic factors can all contribute to low help-seeking behaviour. Additionally, cultural norms that prioritise resilience may discourage individuals from acknowledging their struggles and reaching out for support
How can we spread awareness and foster support for individuals affected by mood disorders in Kerala?
Efforts to transform our view on mood disorders must begin with spreading awareness and promoting open conversations about mental health. also we can go for a Collaborative Action for Change, efforts from various people from society, including government agencies, healthcare providers, community organisations, and individuals. By prioritising mental health in policy and healthcare initiatives, investing in mental health infrastructure, and promoting culturally sensitive approaches to care, we can create a more supportive environment for those affected by mood disorders.Also by addressing the barriers to seeking help and promoting a culture of acceptance and support, we can work towards improving mental health outcomes for us.
How can each of us contribute to creating a more supportive environment for mental health in Kerala?
As we strive towards transforming our view on mood disorders, it's essential to recognize that change begins with each one of us. By fostering empathy, understanding, and acceptance within our community, we can break down the barriers of stigma and create a more inclusive environment where individuals feel empowered to seek help and support for their mental health concerns. Let's work together to spread awareness, promote understanding, and transform Kerala into a place where mental health is prioritised and celebrated
EXPERIENCE
This is about my classmate's experience with depression. She explained how it affects her life in two main ways: intense loneliness and numbness. She described how sometimes, even when she's surrounded by friends and having a good time, she feels this overwhelming sense of solitude and the urge to cry. It's like her mind convinces her that she's unloved and misunderstood, even though she knows deep down that it is not true. She also talked about this numbness she experiences, where she feels nothing at all. It affects her schoolwork and makes it hard for her to care about anything. It's tough for her to handle all these emotions, so sometimes she thinks about cutting, even though she knows it's not a solution.despite all this, she's found ways to cope. She spends time with friends, immerses herself in romantic stories, and listens to music that makes her feel alive. She's determined to live her life fully, even though depression is a part of it. Her story made me realise how resilient she is and how much strength it takes to keep going despite the challenges.
TIPS
Seeking the guidance of a therapist is crucial in addressing mood disorders effectively, providing professional support and tailored strategies for managing symptoms. Shifting your mindset towards positivity involves practising positive thinking and actively challenging negative thoughts, fostering a more optimistic outlook on life. Maintaining social connections with friends and family offers valuable emotional support and reduces feelings of isolation, contributing to overall well-being. Managing stress through relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation can help alleviate tension and promote a sense of calmness. Setting realistic goals and breaking tasks into smaller, achievable steps can prevent feeling overwhelmed and boost feelings of accomplishment. Avoiding substance use, including limiting alcohol and drug consumption, is essential as they can exacerbate depression symptoms. Establishing a daily routine provides structure and stability, helping to manage depression symptoms more effectively. Engaging in regular physical activity boosts mood and energy levels, promoting overall well-being. Practising better sleep hygiene, such as maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine, supports restful sleep and improves mood. Lastly, maintaining a healthier, nutritious diet by eating balanced meals and avoiding excessive caffeine and sugar intake can positively impact mood and overall health. Incorporating these self-help strategies into daily life can empower individuals to effectively cope with depression and improve their quality of life.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with mood disorders, know that help is available. At Koott, our experienced Malayali psychologists provide compassionate online counseling tailored to your needs. Don’t let stigma hold you back—reach out today to start your journey toward healing. Let’s break the silence together.
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