Take a minute for mental health

Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being that affects individuals, families, and entire communities.

Regrettably, Sri Lanka is now experiencing a significant mental health crisis. According to the World Health Organisation, the total prevalence of mental health disorders among teenagers is 40.3% in Sri Lanka, greater than the estimated global average estimate of 10 to 20 % in the adolescent and child population. This is a stunning figure that emphasises the critical need for action to solve this problem.

The lack of access to mental health care is a major contributor to Sri Lanka’s mental health problem. According to the Ministry of Health Research, only approximately 1% of the national health budget is spent on mental health care.

This lack of financing has resulted in a dearth of mental health specialists as well as inadequate treatment facilities. As a result, many people suffering from mental illnesses are unable to obtain the care they require. Another significant issue is the stigma associated with mental health. Many Sri Lankans consider mental illnesses to be a sign of weakness or a personal failure, rather than a medical issue. Many people are discouraged from getting treatment because of this mindset, which can lead to feelings of shame and isolation.

Furthermore, there is a lack of information and understanding regarding mental health disorders, which contributes to the stigma. Sri Lanka’s economic status is also a major contributor to the mental health epidemic. For decades, the country has faced economic hardships, which has exacerbated worry and anxiety among many people.

Unemployment is rising, and many families are struggling to get by. This financial stress can have a negative impact on mental health, leading to a rise in mental health problems including depression and anxiety. The ongoing COVID-19 epidemic has aggravated Sri Lanka’s mental health catastrophe. The epidemic has created extensive social and economic upheaval, and many people are trying to cope with the virus’s stress and uncertainty. Mental health has also suffered as a result of the isolation and loneliness created by lockdowns and social distancing tactics. Despite these obstacles, there are initiatives that may be taken to solve Sri Lanka’s mental health epidemic. Increasing financing for mental health care is one of the most crucial. This will guarantee that more people have access to the treatment they require while also providing mental health professionals with the tools they require to execute their jobs successfully.

Another critical step is to eliminate the stigma associated with mental health. This may be accomplished by educating the general population about mental health concerns and fostering a culture of tolerance and acceptance. It is also critical to raise awareness about mental health services and make them more accessible to individuals who require them.

Both the public and corporate sectors should invest more in mental health research and development in order to better understand mental health needs and create more effective treatments and interventions.

The Government should also encourage the integration of mental health services into primary care, which would allow individuals to obtain mental health services in the same location as they receive physical health care, making it more convenient and accessible.

The Government should prioritise tackling the root social and economic causes that contribute to the mental health epidemic. This involves increasing work possibilities, assisting struggling families, and eliminating poverty and injustice.

Finally, the mental health crisis in Sri Lanka is a significant problem that demands immediate attention. We can begin to address this crisis and improve the mental well-being of all Sri Lankans by increasing funding for mental health services, addressing the stigma associated with mental health, investing in research and development, integrating mental health services into primary care, and addressing underlying social and economic issues.