Mental health holds immense significance in both our personal lives and the world of business. It truly shapes our wellbeing and defines our overall success. The impact it has on individuals cannot be underestimated, as it profoundly affects their mindset, emotions, and ability to thrive. Similarly, mental health plays a pivotal role in the productivity and triumph of organizations. Acknowledging and prioritizing mental health is essential, for it allows us to foster a compassionate and empathetic environment where everyone can flourish both personally and professionally.

Mental Chatter

It is quite intriguing to learn that we engage in self-talk around 50,000-60,000 times every day. Astonishingly, approximately 80% of these thoughts tend to be negative in most of the individuals. Such a pattern of thinking can be the root cause of anxiety and worry, creating a never-ending cycle. The way we converse with ourselves and nurture our thoughts shapes our mental framework. This mental chatter profoundly influences our subconscious mind, which ultimately determines our external manifestations. It is essential to be aware of the power our thoughts hold and cultivate a more positive and compassionate mindset for our overall wellbeing.

In the simplest terms, our thoughts influence the secretion of hormones in our body. This means that we have the power to choose whether to release happy hormones or stress hormones.

I am humbled to have had the opportunity to spend some time with Dr. Dabanjan Banerjee, a consultant Neuropsychiatrist at Apollo Hospital in Kolkata. Not only is he widely recognized in his specialty, but he is also an outstanding advocate for mental health, imparting his knowledge through his simple yet impactful language on national and international stages. During an exclusive interview, he beautifully elucidated the underlying causes and consequences of mental health issues, as well as provided guidance on how to prevent or manage them in different situations, ultimately leading to a more fulfilled life.

Q: Why is mental health significant in both personal life and business endeavors?

Ans: Mental health is not an exotic cup of coffee. Mental wellbeing is like a daily bread and is not a luxury to be spoken about on some occasions, it’s a necessity. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that there cannot be any health without Mental Health. But the implications need to be understood. We maintain physical hygiene and public hygiene, and mental health is equally important. Mental hygiene and mental wellbeing do not just mean that we are free from mental illness. If we do not have schizophrenia, depression, anxiety disorder, etc., it does not mean that we are mentally fit. A person may not have diabetes but she might have borderline diabetes. Similarly, a person may not function properly in her professional as well as her personal life despite having no mental issues. Her relationships get challenged or compromised. One thing is very important, if we do not have proper mental wellbeing, then we cannot perform well in our relationships. We fail to perform our best and cannot cope with stress, leading to a distressful life. That affects our physical wellbeing, such as increased blood sugar levels, hypertension, sleep apnea, loss of body weight/increased body weight, and anorexia. Our physical morbidities and pains increase. The quality of life is minimized. So, both in life and business, we need to do a lot of work daily. To navigate through them, we have to have a sound body and mind. Both are mutually related.

Q: What can be done daily to remain mentally fit?

Ans: I think the things appear so generic, that they are not really followed. Me time is extremely important but we don’t keep time for ourselves as we are just racing with each other. Digital distancing like we did physical distancing during the COVID period is very important. Screen time really needs to be minimized, though most of our jobs need to be done through devices. Social media and social networking should have their own limits. We scroll down the pages of FB, Instagram, and Twitter. We feel everyone is doing something and we feel fear of missing out. There is always a perceived sense of inadequacy and competition which can be extremely toxic for our mental wellbeing. In-person social connections like singing, meeting friends in person having quality time with them, and having at least one meal in a day with all the family members sitting together are very important. At least coming out of the four walls and having an evening stroll, taking fresh air for some time, gives us enough relief to ourselves. It sounds so simple but is very rarely practiced. Daily practices like exercise, yoga, having a healthy food diet, being socially connected, having a good support circle, having good connections, strong connections with family members, and having intergenerational bonds with parents and grandparents are very crucial in having mental fitness.

Q: What is the difference between stress and distress?

Ans: I think it is essential to say NO when your line is getting bent. Stress is now normal in our daily life but harmful stress is distress. There is a thin line of difference between the two. The flexibility and elasticity are different. We need to know how much we have to bend and that is very individualized. When we know that is being stretched beyond a limit, we need to put our foot down, and that is necessary for our mental wellbeing.

Q: When to seek help?

Ans: There is no shame and guilt in asking for help because help is there. But both self-stigma and social stigma are very important to understand. I encounter some patients who are senior managers in their professional careers. They give reasons that they are handling so many challenges and responsibilities in their professional lives so they can’t have depression. I tell them my favorite analogy. A footballer or an athlete, despite peak performance, suffers from a hamstring tear or bone fracture. Psychological wellbeing and mental illnesses are like physical wellbeing and physical illnesses. They all need treatment, and we all need help in some parts of our lives (this includes successful leaders also). Certain Red Flags like loss of appetite, loss of body weight, physical signs and symptoms, elevated blood sugar levels, hypertension, and increase in body pains, if you feel self-harm or suicidality, help needs to be immediate.

My heartiest thanks to Dr. Banerjee for giving me time to have the interview on Mental Health which needs to be understood and shared for wider community impact.

Let’s have some mental disorder fact checks of our own country, Bharat. The statistics are heart-wrenching.

1. Close to 60 to 70 million people in the country suffer from common and severe mental disorders. India is the world’s suicide capital with over 2.6 lakh cases of suicide in a year. WHO statistics say the average suicide rate in India is 10.9 for every lakh people. Mental illness is still a stigma in India.
2. According to a recent report by the World Health Organization, 56 million, i.e., 4.5% of Indians suffer from depression and another 38 million i.e., 3.5% of Indians suffer from anxiety disorders. Ref:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6532460/#:~:text=According%20to%20a%20recent%20report,Indians%20suffer%20from%20anxiety%20disorders.
3. Depression is widely prevalent in women in India across all age groups. The multiple roles played by Indian women contribute to stress, thereby making them susceptible to depression, which is often under-reported due to stigma. Ref:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4539868/#:~:text=Depression%20is%20widely%20prevalent%20in%20women%20in%20India%20across%20all,under%2Dreported%20due%20to%20stigma.
4. As per the results of a large-scale survey conducted across India in 2019, young adults between the ages of 20 and 29 years of both genders were the most depressed in the country. Ref:https://www.statista.com/statistics/1137306/india-gender-distribution-of-depression-index-by-age-group/#:~:text=As%20per%20the%20results%20of,most%20depressed%20in%20the%20country.
5. The survey also found that around 14 percent of 15 to 24-year-olds in India, or around one in seven, reported often feeling depressed or having little interest in doing things. Ref:https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/one-in-seven-indians-between-15-24-years-of-age-feel-depressed-lack-interest-in-doing-things-shows-unicef-report/articleshow/86807417.cms#:~:text=The%20survey%20also%20found%20that,little%20interest%20in%20doing%20things.
6. About half of all mental illnesses are known to begin by the age of 14 and three-quarters by mid-20s. Ref:https://journals.lww.com/ijmr/fulltext/2018/48040/youth___mental_health__challenges_ahead.1.aspx#:~:text=About%20half%20of%20the%20all,quarters%20by%20mid%2D20s2.
7. Nearly 3 in 5 teen girls (57%) said they felt “persistently sad or hopeless.” That’s the highest rate in a decade. And 30% said they have seriously considered dying by suicide — a percentage that’s risen by nearly 60% over the past 10 years.13-Feb-2023. Ref:https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/teen-mental-health-cdc-girls-sadness-violence-rcna69964

These statistics are truly alarming. In a time when India is rapidly emerging as a global powerhouse and the world’s attention is shifting towards our nation, we must prioritize the wellbeing of our young generation, especially our teenagers and women. They are the very foundation of our future Bharat, and we cannot afford to overlook their mental health struggles. Let us join hands and work towards creating a nurturing environment that allows them to thrive and contribute to the prosperous future of our beloved country. Together, we can make a difference.

Mental Health: Gen Z

I have a very intriguing question, Why is Gen Z depressed?

Excessive use of social media has been associated with profound feelings of loneliness, low self-esteem, and depression, according to extensive research findings. Many individuals belonging to Generation Z are currently facing significant financial uncertainty brought upon by burdensome student debts, low-wage employment opportunities, and a highly competitive job market. Even those who have achieved financial success may experience an underlying fear of missing out (FOMO). They constantly find themselves under immense pressure to make a difference, often neglecting to appreciate their own achievements along the way. It is crucial to bear in mind that ambition is indeed admirable, but it is also equally important to savor the journey and find genuine happiness in each step taken.

Mental Health Issues: Let’s solve together

These problem areas are indeed challenging, but together we can find the solutions to make our beloved Bharat even brighter. As we carefully examine these issues, we can uncover the underlying causes, which are akin to the very core of all mental problems. By implementing some thoughtful adjustments, we can address these concerns and pave the way for a better tomorrow. Let’s embark on this journey of self-improvement and make our nation thrive.

1. Emotional wellbeing: Our mental state significantly affects our emotional wellbeing. When we prioritize our mental health, we create a more positive and uplifting environment, leading to the secretion of those delightful happy hormones.
2. Physical health: Mental health and physical wellbeing go hand in hand. When we take care of our mental wellbeing, we reduce the risk of developing stress-induced health issues. By focusing on positivity and relaxation, we can empower our body to release those beneficial happy hormones.
3. Relationships: Our mental state plays a vital role in our relationships with others. When we prioritize our mental health, we increase our ability to connect and empathize with those around us. This fosters healthier relationships and promotes the secretion of uplifting happy hormones.
4. Resilience: Life is full of challenges, and having good mental health equips us with the resilience to face them. By cultivating a positive mindset and managing stress, we create a nurturing environment for the secretion of those resilience-boosting happy hormones.

Mental Health and Business:

Mental health plays a significant role in determining business success. Managing one’s mental wellbeing can greatly impact an individual’s ability to navigate the challenges and pressures that come with running a business. It affects their decision-making skills, productivity, and overall performance.

Prioritising Mental Health: Business Leaders

When an entrepreneur or business leader prioritizes their mental health, it creates a foundation for success. By maintaining a healthy work-life balance and managing stress effectively, individuals can maintain their focus, creativity, and resilience.

Mental Health: Fabric of Business Environment

Mental health influences how individuals interact with others in a professional setting. Building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, colleagues, and employees is crucial for business growth. A positive mindset and emotional stability contribute to effective communication, collaboration, and problem-solving.

Neglecting Mental Health: Adverse Effects on Business

Neglecting mental health can have adverse effects on business success. High levels of stress, anxiety, or burnout can lead to poor decision-making, reduced productivity, and strained relationships. It can also negatively impact physical health, leading to increased absenteeism and decreased overall performance.

Mental Health Factors Impacting Business Endeavors

Given these factors, individuals in the business world need to prioritize their mental health. Seeking support from mental health professionals, practicing self-care, and fostering a supportive work environment are vital steps toward achieving business success. Remember, taking care of your mental wellbeing is not only beneficial to yourself but also to your business endeavors.

1. Emotional Wellbeing: Good mental health is essential for emotional wellbeing. It helps individuals manage stress, anxiety, and depression, allowing them to maintain a positive outlook on life and handle challenges more effectively.
2. Physical Health: Mental health is interconnected with physical health. High levels of stress and poor mental health can lead to physical health issues such as heart disease, weakened immune systems, and even chronic conditions. A focus on mental health can contribute to overall wellness.
3. Productivity and Performance: In the business world, employees with good mental health are more likely to be productive and perform at their best. A happy and mentally healthy workforce tends to be more motivated, engaged, and creative.
4. Decision-Making: Mental health influences an individual’s ability to make rational and sound decisions. In business, leaders and employees with good mental health are better equipped to make strategic decisions that benefit the organization.
5. Interpersonal Relationships: Healthy mental states enable individuals to build and maintain strong interpersonal relationships. This is crucial in both personal life and business, where effective communication, teamwork, and collaboration are essential.
6. Innovation and Creativity: A positive mental state is often linked to increased creativity and innovative thinking. In the business world, innovation is a driving force for growth and success.
7. Resilience: Good mental health fosters resilience, helping individuals bounce back from setbacks and adapt to changing circumstances. In business, this ability is essential for overcoming challenges and thriving in a competitive environment.
8. Reducing Absenteeism: Poor mental health can lead to increased absenteeism in the workplace due to illness or stress-related issues. Organizations that prioritize mental health can reduce absenteeism and associated costs.
9. Work-Life Balance: Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for mental wellbeing. Businesses that support this balance tend to have more satisfied employees who are more committed and productive.
10. Legal and Ethical Responsibilities: Many countries have legal obligations for employers to provide a safe and healthy work environment, including mental health support. Neglecting mental health can lead to legal issues and reputational damage for businesses.
11. Corporate Social Responsibility: Companies that demonstrate a commitment to mental health not only attract and retain top talent but also fulfill their corporate social responsibility by contributing to a healthier society.
12. Long-Term Sustainability: Prioritizing mental health can contribute to the long-term sustainability and success of both individuals and businesses. It fosters an environment that is conducive to growth and wellbeing.

Mental Health: Global Impact

Mental health is not just an individual concern but also a crucial factor in the success and wellbeing of businesses. When individuals have good mental health, they are more likely to be engaged, productive, and satisfied in their work, leading to better business outcomes. Moreover, organizations that proactively address mental health concerns contribute to a more compassionate and productive society, ultimately benefiting both individuals and the larger community.

To end on a happy/lighter note: “Happiness is like enjoying the sex without focusing on orgasm”. This I feel must be the understanding to erase depression and embrace happiness.

A request to you, dear Reader: Please share this article in your network or at least with an individual. The message of Dr. Banerjee through his interview on Mental Health is priceless. Help me by sharing the message to have a global community impact! Thank you!!

What’s your take on Mental Health?

Please write in the comments section or email me.

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