Why Is Mental Health Still Viewed as a First World Problem?

You've heard it before: mental health is a first-world problem. But what does that mean? And why is it still a problem? 

In this article, we'll explore the history of the phrase and take a look at some reasons why mental health continues to be viewed as a luxury rather than a basic human right. We'll also discuss some ways in which we can work to break the stigma surrounding mental health and create a society where everyone feels comfortable seeking help. 

Mental Health Stigma in India

Mental health is a problem that is often viewed as a first-world problem.

In countries like India, mental health is barely given importance. People coping with mental health conditions are typically seen as outcasts, and their problems are frequently left unaddressed. This is primarily because mental health is seen as a sign of weakness, and people are afraid to confront it.

This has to change. Mental health is a serious issue, and it should not be ignored simply because it's uncomfortable to talk about. We need to break the stigma attached to mental health, and we need to start talking about it openly and honestly. Only then will we be able to address this problem properly.

Also read: How Technology is Changing Mental Health: The Latest Treatments for Depression, 2022 

The Challenge of Awareness in India

It's not that people in India don't want to talk about mental health—they just don't know how. The challenge is twofold: lack of awareness and lack of resources.

Mental health is often viewed as a first-world problem, and it's often left out of the public discourse. This is partly because people don't understand it, and partly because it's seen as a luxury. Mental health is not a priority in India, and it's typically considered a taboo topic.

This is reflected in the lack of resources available for mental health care. There are only about 5,000 psychiatrists in India, which is woefully inadequate for a population of over 1.3 billion. And most of these psychiatrists are located in urban areas. There is also a lack of qualified professionals who can provide support for mental health, and most people turn to informal healers or spiritual leaders for help.

Lack of Mental Health Services

You might be wondering why, in a time when mental health is spoken about more openly than ever before, it's still viewed as a first-world problem.

And the answer to that is quite simple: lack of accessible mental health services. In many cases, people living in poverty or in developing countries simply don't have access to the help they need. Mental health is seen as a luxury and something that can be put off until a later date. This is a vicious cycle, as those who require mental health services the most are often the ones who can't afford to get them. This creates a stigma surrounding mental health, as it's seen as something that only affects those who are wealthy.

This is why it's so important to break the stigma surrounding mental health. By raising awareness and making mental health services more accessible, we can help break the cycle and make sure that everyone has the help they require.

This needs to change. We need to break down the stigma attached to mental health and make it an essential part of our global healthcare system. Only then will we be able to provide the necessary support for those who need it.  This is a problem Amaha is trying to solve actively. 

Also read: How Do I Talk To Someone About My Depression Or Anxiety?

Consequences of Mental Health Stigma

Mental health stigma can have a number of negative consequences. First and foremost, it can prevent people from seeking help. If someone is afraid of being labelled as “crazy” or “weak,” they're less likely to seek out treatment, even if they're in desperate need of it. 

Mental health stigma can also lead to discrimination. People with mental illness may be passed over for jobs, excluded from social activities, or even verbally and physically abused. And this stigma is not just felt by the individual—it can also extend to their family and friends. Finally, mental health stigma can have a negative impact on society as a whole. When people with mental illness are stigmatised, it can reinforce the idea that these disorders are somehow “not normal” and that those who suffer from them are to be feared or pitied. This, in turn, can make it harder for people with mental illness to recover and lead fulfilling lives.

Finally, mental health stigma can have a negative impact on society as a whole. When people with mental illness are marginalised, they're less likely to be productive citizens. They may be more likely to end up in prison, homeless, or unemployed. And this costs everyone—in terms of both money and compassion.

How We Can Reduce the Stigma Of Mental Health

There are a number of ways we can work to reduce the stigma against mental health. One way is by talking about it more openly. This means having conversations with friends, family, and co-workers about mental health, and normalising the topic so that it's not seen as taboo.

We can also support organisations that are working to raise awareness about mental health, and help those who are struggling. This could involve donating to mental health charities, or volunteering your time to help others.

Mental health should also be taught in schools so that children learn about it from a young age. This will help to break the cycle of stigma and discrimination that currently exists.

Lastly, we need to be more understanding and compassionate towards those who are suffering from mental illness. Everyone's experience is different, and we should be mindful of this when interacting with others.

Also read: Anxiety 101: What You Need to Know About Anxiety Disorder

Conclusion

While common mental disorders account for the largest portion of global disease burden, evidence shows that these disorders, as well as severe mental disorders, can be treated with evidence-based interventions by trained mental health workers. It's time to break the stigma around mental health and start viewing it as the global challenge it is. The more we discuss it and bring attention to it, the more we can do to help those who are suffering. Let's work together to end the stigma and make sure everyone has access to the necessary care and support they need.