The Silent Crisis: Why Mental Health Needs to Be a Priority

Written By: Fenil Shah | 15th March 2025 | 4:18 PM | Nirmaya Foundation 

The world today moves at an incredible speed, pushing us towards constant success, productivity, and achievement. In the rush to meet deadlines, chase goals, and keep up with expectations, one essential aspect of life is often forgotten—mental well-being. While we take care of our bodies by exercising and eating healthy, how often do we stop to ask ourselves, *How is my mind feeling today?* *Am I truly okay?*  

Mental health is just as important as physical health, yet it remains one of the most neglected aspects of human well-being. The reality is alarming—one in every eight people in the world is living with a mental health disorder, and millions suffer in silence due to stigma, fear, or lack of awareness. According to the World Health Organization, more than 280 million people globally experience depression, and suicide is the fourth leading cause of death among young people between the ages of 15 and 29. Anxiety disorders affect over 301 million individuals worldwide, yet many of them never receive the care they need. In India alone, studies have shown that nearly 150 million people require mental health interventions, but only a small percentage seek professional help.  

Despite these overwhelming numbers, mental health issues are still overlooked in many societies. Conversations about emotional well-being are often silenced, and people struggling with mental health challenges are made to feel weak or ashamed. In reality, seeking help for mental distress is a sign of strength, not weakness. However, due to deep-rooted stigma, many individuals hesitate to open up about their struggles, fearing judgment or discrimination. Accessibility is another major challenge—there are simply not enough trained mental health professionals to support the growing need for care. In many parts of the world, including India, mental health services remain either too expensive or completely unavailable to those who need them the most.  

Change is beginning to take shape, and awareness around mental health is growing. More people are now recognizing the importance of emotional well-being and breaking the silence that once surrounded mental health issues. Younger generations, especially Gen Z and Millennials, are more open to discussing their mental health, seeking therapy, and practicing self-care. Governments and organizations are also making efforts to bring mental health into mainstream conversations, making resources and support more accessible than ever before.  

At Nirmaya Foundation, we believe that mental well-being is not a privilege but a fundamental right. We are dedicated to raising awareness, educating individuals, and creating safe spaces where people feel encouraged to speak about their emotions without fear. Through workshops, wellness discussions, and community-driven initiatives, we aim to make mental health support more accessible to all. We believe that small steps—checking in on a friend, practicing mindfulness, talking about feelings, and encouraging help-seeking behaviors—can create a ripple effect that leads to a mentally healthier society.  

The journey towards prioritizing mental health starts with all of us. It is time to move beyond silence, beyond stigma, and towards a world where everyone has the support they need to take care of their minds. If you believe in the importance of mental well-being, start today. Ask yourself, *What am I doing to take care of my mind?* Have that conversation with a friend. Support someone who may be struggling. Together, we can build a future where mental wellness is embraced, and no one has to suffer alone.