During these unprecedented times, the Nagaland State Mental Health Programme (NMHP) will commemorate 10th October, 2020 as World Mental Health Day along with the rest of the world. Every year, this day (10th October) is observed with the sole objective of raising awareness on Mental Health Issues and mobilizing efforts in support of Mental Health. With the current global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is only appropriate and of great significance that the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH) decided on the theme of “Mental Health for All, Greater Investment-Greater Access” for this year.

With this new reality of physical isolations and distancing caused by the lockdowns, the world has seen a spike in Mental Health Issues. Along with the psychologically burdened, the everyday man is also now experiencing overwhelming vulnerability to mental distress due to the hard and drastic measures implemented to battle COVID-19. This disruption of the natural social interactions along with stigmatization has seen a rise in cases of insomnia, fear, anxiety and depression, etc, and has been the heaviest even on the poor and the ones living in remote areas.

This bleak picture necessitates that Mental Health is prioritized now more than ever. Nobody should be denied access to Mental Health Care. World Mental Health Day is not just a one-day event. It’s a continuous process to ensure that Mental Health gets it due spotlight with the stake holders and a reminder that it is the responsibility of all to ensure that none are left behind. Thus, in accordance with the Government of India (GOI) the goal of this year’s World Mental Health Day is increased investment in Mental Health.

(DIPR)