Chandigarh, Jun 10 — Mental health professionals and advocates are calling for urgent attention to mental well-being, stressing that a lack of understanding, empathy, and open dialogue can have devastating consequences — including suicide.
“Too often, people suffer in silence because they feel they won’t be understood,” said Dr. Ameena Wani, a clinical psychologist based in Srinagar. “Mental health is not a weakness. It’s a part of our overall health. But when communities lack empathy, individuals spiral deeper into isolation.”
According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), India reported over 1.7 lakh suicides in 2023 — a stark reminder of the silent epidemic. Experts say these numbers represent just the tip of the iceberg, as many cases go unreported or are misclassified due to stigma.
“People still say things like ‘just snap out of it’ or ‘you’re just being dramatic.’ These statements come from a place of ignorance, not care,” said Aisha Dar, a mental health advocate who runs a community support group. “Lack of sympathy and empathy can push someone off the edge, especially when they’re already fighting inner battles.”
The World Health Organization defines mental health as a state of well-being where individuals realize their abilities, cope with normal stresses, work productively, and contribute to their community. But in countries like India, mental health is often buried under social taboo and family denial.
“Mental illness is treated as a shameful secret,” Dr. Wani added. “People are afraid of being labeled ‘mad’ or ‘weak’. And that fear stops them from seeking help.”
Educational institutions and workplaces are slowly beginning to introduce mental health initiatives, but experts believe the efforts are not enough. “One workshop a year won’t solve the deep-rooted cultural and structural neglect of mental health,” said Professor Rajiv Khanna, who teaches social psychology at Delhi University.
He believes the lack of empathy within families, peer groups, and institutions is a major barrier. “Empathy is not just about feeling sorry. It’s about listening without judgment, validating someone’s pain, and showing up when they need you,” Prof. Khanna explained. “When empathy is missing, people begin to feel invisible.”
For 24-year-old Anam Mir, who survived a suicide attempt in 2022, it was empathy that saved her. “I had been battling depression for two years. But no one noticed. Or maybe they did — they just didn’t care,” she said. “It wasn’t until a friend sat me down and actually listened, without trying to fix me, that I began to feel like maybe I mattered.”
Anam’s story is not unique. Mental health helplines across India have reported a rise in calls post-pandemic, particularly among youth. But many calls are not about asking for help — they’re about being heard.
The National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) recently released a report urging the integration of emotional literacy in school curricula. “Children need to be taught how to talk about their feelings — and how to listen to others. These are life skills,” the report said.
In rural areas, the challenge is even greater. “Mental health services are rare, and even when they exist, people won’t go,” said Rehan Bashir, a counselor working with an NGO in South Kashmir. “They fear being labeled, ostracized, or worse — disbelieved.”
Dr. Wani believes the solution lies in a cultural shift. “We need to normalize talking about anxiety, trauma, and depression the same way we talk about fever or diabetes. Only then can we expect change,” she said.
Policy-level interventions are also being pushed. The Mental Healthcare Act 2017 guarantees every person the right to access mental health care. But implementation on the ground remains inconsistent, with resource shortages and poor awareness.
Despite the challenges, change is visible. Social media campaigns, online therapy platforms, and youth-led awareness movements are helping break down barriers. “But nothing replaces real human connection,” said Aisha Dar. “A post can’t replace a conversation. A hashtag won’t save someone’s life. Empathy will.”
For survivors like Anam, every act of understanding matters. “I still struggle. But now I know I’m not alone,” she said. “And I want others to know that too — before it’s too late.”
As mental health professionals continue to raise the alarm, their message is clear: silence kills. Compassion, on the other hand, saves.
