A new survey reveals the majority of Generation Z have faced mental health challenges, with women more affected than men. What’s driving this crisis and what comes next?

Why Is Gen Z In Crisis, What's Behind The Mental Health Crisis?

Former world boxing champion Ricky Hatton has died aged 46, Britain's Press Association news agency reported Sunday (Sep 14). Hatton was found dead at his home in Hyde, northwest England. Greater Manchester Police said they were not treating the death as suspicious.&nbsp;&nbsp;A police spokesman said, "Officers were called by a member of the public to attend Bowlacre Road, Hyde, Tameside, at 6:45 am (0545 GMT) today (Sunday) where they found the body of a 46-year-old man. There are not currently believed to be any suspicious circumstances."&nbsp;Hatton won world titles at light-welterweight and welterweight and his aggressive style made him one of the most popular British boxers of his generation. Notable opponents including Kostya Tszyu, Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/terence-crawford-net-worth-all-you-need-to-know-about-american-boxer-who-stunned-millionaire-star-saul-alvarez-1757834925115">Terence Crawford net worth: All you need to know about American boxer who stunned millionaire star Saul Alvarez</a>&nbsp;Hatton was frank about the mental health problems he endured following his retirement from the ring.&nbsp;In July, he announced he would make a return to boxing in a professional bout against Eisa Al Dah in Dubai in December.&nbsp;Britain's former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury paid tribute to Hatton.&nbsp;"Rip to the legend Ricky Hatton may he rip," Fury posted on Instagram. "There will only ever be 1 Ricky Hatton. Can't believe this so young."&nbsp;Another former world champion, Britain's Amir Khan, described Hatton on X as a "mentor, warrior and one of Britain's greatest boxers". Khan added: "As fighters, we tell ourselves we're strong -- we train, we sweat, we take hits, we get up. But sometimes the hardest fight happens in silence, in the mind.&nbsp;"Mental health isn't weakness. It's part of being human. And we must talk about it. We must reach out. We must lean on each other.&nbsp;"Ricky, thank you for everything. For your fights, your moments of glory, your grit. Thank you for pushing us, showing us what's possible.&nbsp;Matchroom Boxing said: "(We are) saddened to hear the news of Ricky Hatton's passing. Our thoughts and condolences are with Ricky's friends and family at this tragic time. There's only one Ricky Hatton."&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Hatton won world titles at light-welterweight and welterweight and his aggressive style made him one of the most popular British boxers of his generation.

Former world boxing champion Ricky Hatton has died aged 46, Britain's Press Association news agency reported Sunday (Sep 14). Hatton was found dead at his home in Hyde, northwest England. Greater Manchester Police said they were not treating the death as suspicious. A police spokesman said, "Officers were called by a member of the public to attend Bowlacre Road, Hyde, Tameside, at 6:45 am (0545 GMT) today (Sunday) where they found the body of a 46-year-old man. There are not currently believed to be any suspicious circumstances." Hatton won world titles at light-welterweight and welterweight and his aggressive style made him one of the most popular British boxers of his generation. Notable opponents including Kostya Tszyu, Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao. Also read | Terence Crawford net worth: All you need to know about American boxer who stunned millionaire star Saul Alvarez Hatton was frank about the mental health problems he endured following his retirement from the ring. In July, he announced he would make a return to boxing in a professional bout against Eisa Al Dah in Dubai in December. Britain's former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury paid tribute to Hatton. "Rip to the legend Ricky Hatton may he rip," Fury posted on Instagram. "There will only ever be 1 Ricky Hatton. Can't believe this so young." Another former world champion, Britain's Amir Khan, described Hatton on X as a "mentor, warrior and one of Britain's greatest boxers". Khan added: "As fighters, we tell ourselves we're strong -- we train, we sweat, we take hits, we get up. But sometimes the hardest fight happens in silence, in the mind. "Mental health isn't weakness. It's part of being human. And we must talk about it. We must reach out. We must lean on each other. "Ricky, thank you for everything. For your fights, your moments of glory, your grit. Thank you for pushing us, showing us what's possible. Matchroom Boxing said: "(We are) saddened to hear the news of Ricky Hatton's passing. Our thoughts and condolences are with Ricky's friends and family at this tragic time. There's only one Ricky Hatton." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Hatton won world titles at light-welterweight and welterweight and his aggressive style made him one of the most popular British boxers of his generation.

Ricky Hatton, former British boxing world champion, dies at 46: Police

Gen Z's Mental Health Crisis: A new study reveals that Gen Z, or young adults today, report lower levels of happiness compared to middle-aged individuals. Experts cite factors like social media pressure, economic uncertainty, and mental health challenges as contributing to this trend.


Gen Z's Mental Health Crisis: Study Finds Young Adults Less Happy Than Middle-Age 

For decades, researchers documented what came to be known as the “midlife unhappiness hump.” People tended to start young adulthood on a relatively positive note, sink into despair around age 50, and then recover in happiness as they approached retirement. But a new global study suggests that pattern has been overturned—thanks to Gen Z.&nbsp;The research, spanning 44 countries including the US and UK, found that today’s youngest adults—roughly aged 12 to 28—report unprecedented levels of despair and anxiety compared to earlier generations at the same age. Rather than experiencing a midlife dip, Gen Z faces what researchers call a “ski slope,” where misery starts high in youth and gradually eases with age.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-latest-wild-plan-reopen-insane-asylums-like-joker-s-arkham-amid-his-crime-crackdown-here-s-what-he-said-1756784333958">Trump's latest wild plan: Reopen 'insane asylums' like Joker's Arkham amid his crime crackdown. Here's what he said</a>&nbsp;“This is being driven entirely by a growth of mental ill health amongst young people,” said study co-author Alex Bryson.Supporting data underscores the trend. The CDC reports that poor mental health among young men rose from 2.5% in 1993 to 6.6% in 2024. Among young women, rates jumped from 3.2% to 9.3% over the same period. A 2023 Gallup survey showed only 15% of Gen Z described their mental health as excellent—a steep drop from a decade earlier, when 52% of Millennials at the same age said the same.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/is-3i-atlas-not-alone-scientist-says-invisible-probe-may-be-racing-ahead-and-could-strike-mars-1756785567924">Is 3I/ATLAS not alone? Scientist says an invisible ‘probe’ racing ahead of it could strike Mars</a>&nbsp;Researchers point to several pressures unique to Gen Z: being the first generation raised entirely in the social media era, losing formative years to pandemic lockdowns, and carrying higher levels of personal debt. Still, smartphones remain a prime suspect. “There’s increasing evidence of not only a correlation between screen use and mental ill health, but also some causal impacts,” Bryson added. Co-author David G Blanchflower has called the trend a “global crisis,” urging measures such as banning phones in schools and promoting in-person social interaction.

Is Gen Z really the saddest generation? New study finds young adults are unhappier than the middle-aged

For decades, researchers documented what came to be known as the “midlife unhappiness hump.” People tended to start young adulthood on a relatively positive note, sink into despair around age 50, and then recover in happiness as they approached retirement. But a new global study suggests that pattern has been overturned—thanks to Gen Z. The research, spanning 44 countries including the US and UK, found that today’s youngest adults—roughly aged 12 to 28—report unprecedented levels of despair and anxiety compared to earlier generations at the same age. Rather than experiencing a midlife dip, Gen Z faces what researchers call a “ski slope,” where misery starts high in youth and gradually eases with age. Also Read: Trump's latest wild plan: Reopen 'insane asylums' like Joker's Arkham amid his crime crackdown. Here's what he said “This is being driven entirely by a growth of mental ill health amongst young people,” said study co-author Alex Bryson. Supporting data underscores the trend. The CDC reports that poor mental health among young men rose from 2.5% in 1993 to 6.6% in 2024. Among young women, rates jumped from 3.2% to 9.3% over the same period. A 2023 Gallup survey showed only 15% of Gen Z described their mental health as excellent—a steep drop from a decade earlier, when 52% of Millennials at the same age said the same. Also Read: Is 3I/ATLAS not alone? Scientist says an invisible ‘probe’ racing ahead of it could strike Mars Researchers point to several pressures unique to Gen Z: being the first generation raised entirely in the social media era, losing formative years to pandemic lockdowns, and carrying higher levels of personal debt. Still, smartphones remain a prime suspect. “There’s increasing evidence of not only a correlation between screen use and mental ill health, but also some causal impacts,” Bryson added. Co-author David G Blanchflower has called the trend a “global crisis,” urging measures such as banning phones in schools and promoting in-person social interaction.

According to a study, Gen Z faces a ‘ski slope’ of unhappiness, with record mental health struggles driven by social media, pandemic losses, and debt—reversing the traditional midlife slump

A California couple has filed the first wrongful death lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging that its AI chatbot, ChatGPT, encouraged their 16-year-old son to take his own life. The lawsuit claims the chatbot validated the teenager’s suicidal thoughts instead of guiding him toward professional help. OpenAI says it is reviewing the case and expressed sympathy, acknowledging that its systems have failed in sensitive situations before.

OpenAI sued: Lawsuit claims ChatGPT 'encouraged suicide'

Over 100,000 workers in the United Kingdom have transitioned to a full-time four-day workweek since the pandemic, highlighting a major shift in the evolving work landscape sparked by Covid, a new analysis reveals. About 1.4 million people reported working full-time for four days in a week between October and December 2024, an increase of over 100,000 compared to the same period in 2019, when 1.29 million followed this work schedule, according to data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).Campaigners and some economists say that a four-day week offers advantages like improved mental health and more personal time for relaxation to workers and also benefits businesses by boosting employee motivation and aiding in hiring and retention.Moreover, an additional 100,000 employees said they worked a part-time four-day week between October and December 2024.&nbsp;Consequently, the percentage of employees in the UK who report working a four-day week has gone up from 9.8% in the final three months of 2019 to 10.9%, representing 2.7 million across full- and part-time work.However, the data does not reveal whether those taking advantage of shorter working weeks have compressed their hours or have taken a pay cut to do so.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/driverless-cars-move-from-hype-to-reality-1755930559894/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/driverless-cars-move-from-hype-to-reality-1755930559894/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The 4 Day Week Foundation, which campaigns for more businesses to take up shorter working weeks with no loss of pay for staff, has reported that more than 420 companies having more than 12,000 employees have adopted a four-day week since the pandemic. This is based on the number of companies that have signed up to the foundation’s employer accreditation scheme and those who publicised their adoption of a shorter week.“The nine to five, five-day week is a century-old model that no longer fits the way we live and work today. We’re long overdue an update. A four-day week with no loss of pay is about freedom—the freedom to live happier, healthier and more fulfilling lives,” said Sam Hunt, the business network coordinator at the foundation.&nbsp;The pandemic transformed the world of work for many professionals and turned hybrid working into the “new normal” for more than a quarter of working adults in Great Britain, reveal ONS figures.However, some workers have had to fight for the right to keep working from home after the return-to-office mandates.&nbsp;In a positive development, even one local authority has adopted the change. South Cambridgeshire District Council voted last month to permanently adopt a four-day week, becoming the first UK council to do so. Now, its 700 workers are expected to carry out 100% of their work in about 80% of their contracted hours, with no reduction in pay.&nbsp;The council implemented the change after a 27-month trial during which it recorded faster planning applications, housing repairs, and benefits processing. Besides, it made an annual saving of nearly £400,000 by filling vacancies permanently rather than relying on expensive agency workers.&nbsp;Several senior Labour politicians, including the deputy prime minister, Angela Rayner, have voiced support for a four-day week, although the party has not embraced the policy since coming to power.Marketing and technology companies and charities have been ahead in adopting four-day weeks, says the 4 Day Week Foundation.

The percentage of workers who report working a four-day week has gone up from 9.8% in the final three months of 2019 to 10.9%, representing 2.7 million across full- and part-time work, but the data does not reveal whether those taking shorter working weeks have taken a pay cut to do so.

Over 100,000 workers in the United Kingdom have transitioned to a full-time four-day workweek since the pandemic, highlighting a major shift in the evolving work landscape sparked by Covid, a new analysis reveals. About 1.4 million people reported working full-time for four days in a week between October and December 2024, an increase of over 100,000 compared to the same period in 2019, when 1.29 million followed this work schedule, according to data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Campaigners and some economists say that a four-day week offers advantages like improved mental health and more personal time for relaxation to workers and also benefits businesses by boosting employee motivation and aiding in hiring and retention. Moreover, an additional 100,000 employees said they worked a part-time four-day week between October and December 2024. Consequently, the percentage of employees in the UK who report working a four-day week has gone up from 9.8% in the final three months of 2019 to 10.9%, representing 2.7 million across full- and part-time work. However, the data does not reveal whether those taking advantage of shorter working weeks have compressed their hours or have taken a pay cut to do so. https://www.wionews.com/videos/driverless-cars-move-from-hype-to-reality-1755930559894/embed The 4 Day Week Foundation, which campaigns for more businesses to take up shorter working weeks with no loss of pay for staff, has reported that more than 420 companies having more than 12,000 employees have adopted a four-day week since the pandemic. This is based on the number of companies that have signed up to the foundation’s employer accreditation scheme and those who publicised their adoption of a shorter week. “The nine to five, five-day week is a century-old model that no longer fits the way we live and work today. We’re long overdue an update. A four-day week with no loss of pay is about freedom—the freedom to live happier, healthier and more fulfilling lives,” said Sam Hunt, the business network coordinator at the foundation. The pandemic transformed the world of work for many professionals and turned hybrid working into the “new normal” for more than a quarter of working adults in Great Britain, reveal ONS figures. However, some workers have had to fight for the right to keep working from home after the return-to-office mandates. In a positive development, even one local authority has adopted the change. South Cambridgeshire District Council voted last month to permanently adopt a four-day week, becoming the first UK council to do so. Now, its 700 workers are expected to carry out 100% of their work in about 80% of their contracted hours, with no reduction in pay. The council implemented the change after a 27-month trial during which it recorded faster planning applications, housing repairs, and benefits processing. Besides, it made an annual saving of nearly £400,000 by filling vacancies permanently rather than relying on expensive agency workers. Several senior Labour politicians, including the deputy prime minister, Angela Rayner, have voiced support for a four-day week, although the party has not embraced the policy since coming to power. Marketing and technology companies and charities have been ahead in adopting four-day weeks, says the 4 Day Week Foundation.

The percentage of workers who report working a four-day week has gone up from 9.8% in the final three months of 2019 to 10.9%, representing 2.7 million across full- and part-time work, but the data does not reveal whether those taking shorter working weeks have taken a pay cut to do so.

Over 200,000 workers in the UK have transitioned to four-day workweek since 2019

Research has found that men born in the summer season are more likely to be depressed later in life. The revelation was made by scientists at the Kwantlen Polytechnic University in British Columbia, Canada. An international survey conducted by them found that men born in summer are at a higher risk of developing depression over the years as compared to men born in other seasons. Notably, this was only found to be true for men and not women. This is because of the environmental risk factors the mothers are exposed to throughout the year, which differ in various seasons. Gizmodo reported that the author of the study, Mikael Mokkonen, got the idea to study seasons and their effect on mental health from horoscopes. He told the publication that when someone asked him if he believed in horoscopes, he started "wondering if there could potentially be a biological basis for them, in terms of how a person’s birthday could be associated with physiological or mental features." Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/new-scare-unlocked-toothbrush-injury-triggers-stroke-and-deadly-infection-risk-in-japanese-man-1753871613046">New fear unlocked: Toothbrush injury triggers stroke and deadly infection risk in Japanese man</a>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/swedish-company-gives-masturbation-break-to-its-staff-1753760328714">'An apple a day...': A Swedish company gives 30-minute masturbation break to its staff. Here's why</a><h2>Seasons affect mood, does the birth season affect depression?</h2>Mokkonen wanted to fill the gaps in the knowledge around one's birth timing and mental health, as hardly any research has been carried out on it. Scientists have long stated that seasons affect the mood. For example, lack of sunshine can make one depressed, thus triggering Seasonal Affective Disorder, also known as SAD. However, whether the season one is born affects mental health is not known. So Mokkonen and his team surveyed 303 adults online. Their age was noted, and the men were asked to fill in two questionnaires to assess their anxiety and depression levels. They noted that more men born in the summer season reported depression symptoms as compared to those born in other seasons. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/suspicious-wife-subjects-husband-to-lie-detector-test-worlds-most-jealous-woman-1753529304711">Suspicious wife subjects husband to lie detector test each time he comes home. 'When you've got...'</a><h2>Shortcomings of the study</h2>Mokkonen thinks it all possibly boils down to "the environmental conditions of the mother during pregnancy." Things like temperature and sunlight vary across the year, possibly impacting the baby. However, the team asserts in the study published in the journal PLOS Mental Health that the survey only established a connection between the season of birth and depression, and didn't prove that the summer season was responsible for the mental health of men. Besides this shortcoming, the responses were recorded only for a short period of two months in 2024. This means it did not account for the variations and changes in the symptoms over a longer period. Also, most of the participants were college students, so the survey definitely did not take into account the full picture. The researchers plan to delve into other factors, like the mother’s diet and circulating hormone levels, to get a conclusive answer. &nbsp;

Men born in the summer season are more prone to developing depression later in life, according to a study. However, the same cannot be said for women. The survey noted the birth months of the participants and their mental health.

Research has found that men born in the summer season are more likely to be depressed later in life. The revelation was made by scientists at the Kwantlen Polytechnic University in British Columbia, Canada. An international survey conducted by them found that men born in summer are at a higher risk of developing depression over the years as compared to men born in other seasons. Notably, this was only found to be true for men and not women. This is because of the environmental risk factors the mothers are exposed to throughout the year, which differ in various seasons. Gizmodo reported that the author of the study, Mikael Mokkonen, got the idea to study seasons and their effect on mental health from horoscopes. He told the publication that when someone asked him if he believed in horoscopes, he started "wondering if there could potentially be a biological basis for them, in terms of how a person’s birthday could be associated with physiological or mental features." Also Read: New fear unlocked: Toothbrush injury triggers stroke and deadly infection risk in Japanese man Also Read: 'An apple a day...': A Swedish company gives 30-minute masturbation break to its staff. Here's why Seasons affect mood, does the birth season affect depression? Mokkonen wanted to fill the gaps in the knowledge around one's birth timing and mental health, as hardly any research has been carried out on it. Scientists have long stated that seasons affect the mood. For example, lack of sunshine can make one depressed, thus triggering Seasonal Affective Disorder, also known as SAD. However, whether the season one is born affects mental health is not known. So Mokkonen and his team surveyed 303 adults online. Their age was noted, and the men were asked to fill in two questionnaires to assess their anxiety and depression levels. They noted that more men born in the summer season reported depression symptoms as compared to those born in other seasons. Also Read: Suspicious wife subjects husband to lie detector test each time he comes home. 'When you've got...' Shortcomings of the study Mokkonen thinks it all possibly boils down to "the environmental conditions of the mother during pregnancy." Things like temperature and sunlight vary across the year, possibly impacting the baby. However, the team asserts in the study published in the journal PLOS Mental Health that the survey only established a connection between the season of birth and depression, and didn't prove that the summer season was responsible for the mental health of men. Besides this shortcoming, the responses were recorded only for a short period of two months in 2024. This means it did not account for the variations and changes in the symptoms over a longer period. Also, most of the participants were college students, so the survey definitely did not take into account the full picture. The researchers plan to delve into other factors, like the mother’s diet and circulating hormone levels, to get a conclusive answer.

Men born in the summer season are more prone to developing depression later in life, according to a study. However, the same cannot be said for women. The survey noted the birth months of the participants and their mental health.

Summer boys more prone to becoming depressed later in life

Did you know that there is a global competition to do absolutely nothing? &nbsp;It's called Space-Out, and it's been around for a decade now. The race is getting tougher by the year. Here is what you probably didn't know about the Space-Out competition.<h2>Why is there a competition to do absolutely nothing? What you should know about Space-Out</h2>Space-Out Competition is flipping the script by rewarding people for literally doing nothing. In a world of hustle culture, zoning out is the name of the game. To be precise, you have to spend 90 minutes doing nothing.Launched in 2014 in Seoul, South Korea, by visual artist Woopsyang, Space-Out challenges participants to sit still, stay quiet, and unplug from everything for one and a half hours. In today's world of short attention spans, it is near-impossible: No talking, no laughing, no phones, and no naps.The measure of success? Pure, uninterrupted idleness in front of an eagerly watching crowd. The goal is to achieve a meditative state to the level that even the heartbeat slows down.<h2>The Space-out competitions are anti-stress spectacles</h2>Since its debut in South Korea, franchisee &nbsp;Space-Out events have been held in Tokyo, Rotterdam, Hong Kong and Melbourne, bringing together an eclectic mix of creative types, professionals, and the chronically overworked crowds.<h2>The Art of 'Spacing Out': How to compete&nbsp;</h2>The events are held in public spaces. In the competition, which resembles a flash mob in slow motion, contestants sit on mats in quirky outfits, creating a human still life among a sea of onlookers.They can take water, use a fan or even a massage by signalling through coloured cards.But they cannot smile or doze off. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-sleep-revolution-5-hours-is-the-new-8/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-sleep-revolution-5-hours-is-the-new-8/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>Space-out competition: How the winners are selected</h2>The winner of the Space-Out competition is selected based on heart rate stability and audience votes. The heart rate is monitored every 15 minutes, with a smooth and steady pulse showing that the contestant is truly relaxed. Audience votes consider who spaced out with the most flair, costume, or relatable story.<h2>Who won the 2025 Space-Out events?</h2>This year's event in Seoul was held on May 11. Punk rock group Pogo Attack took first prize at the Hangang Space-Out, while second place went to YouTube content creators Inssa Family.&nbsp;A special mention went to a group of soldiers unwinding on leave. More than 4,500 teams applied, and the event had a 57-to-1 competition ratio.A Space-Out event at the RISING Festival in Melbourne, Australia, was held on June 9. Amelia Lumley, aka 'Fountain Lady', who dressed in a costume complete with trickling water sounds to distract others, won the competition.In 2024, Denis Kwan Hong-Wang, an educational psychologist from Hong Kong, took the global Space-Out competition title by holding steady in a noisy shopping mall. In 2025, he went to Seoul to present trophies at this year's main event.<h2>What is the prize of the Space-Out competition?</h2>There is no entry fee. The rules are simple, and the expectation is silence and stillness. The trophy is modelled after ‘The Thinker’ sculpture, &nbsp;in a Korean hat.The Space-Out Competition is a parody, protest and art installation in equal measures.It is a performance art piece with a message: in a world running at full speed, maybe the bravest thing you can do is to just stop and breathe slowly.<h2>So, are you good at doing nothing? Maybe you should be at a Space-Out</h2>It might sound easy, but doing nothing for 90 minutes really takes some hard work. If you are overworked, burned out and want to really try doing nothing for a change, this might be your sport to try. Who knows, you might be next year's champion of chillout.&nbsp;

Launched in 2014 in Seoul, South Korea, by visual artist Woopsyang, Space-Out challenges participants to sit still, stay quiet, and unplug from everything for one and a half hours. In today's world of short attention spans, it is near-impossible

Did you know that there is a global competition to do absolutely nothing? It's called Space-Out, and it's been around for a decade now. The race is getting tougher by the year. Here is what you probably didn't know about the Space-Out competition. Why is there a competition to do absolutely nothing? What you should know about Space-Out Space-Out Competition is flipping the script by rewarding people for literally doing nothing. In a world of hustle culture, zoning out is the name of the game. To be precise, you have to spend 90 minutes doing nothing. Launched in 2014 in Seoul, South Korea, by visual artist Woopsyang, Space-Out challenges participants to sit still, stay quiet, and unplug from everything for one and a half hours. In today's world of short attention spans, it is near-impossible: No talking, no laughing, no phones, and no naps. The measure of success? Pure, uninterrupted idleness in front of an eagerly watching crowd. The goal is to achieve a meditative state to the level that even the heartbeat slows down. The Space-out competitions are anti-stress spectacles Since its debut in South Korea, franchisee Space-Out events have been held in Tokyo, Rotterdam, Hong Kong and Melbourne, bringing together an eclectic mix of creative types, professionals, and the chronically overworked crowds. The Art of 'Spacing Out': How to compete The events are held in public spaces. In the competition, which resembles a flash mob in slow motion, contestants sit on mats in quirky outfits, creating a human still life among a sea of onlookers. They can take water, use a fan or even a massage by signalling through coloured cards. But they cannot smile or doze off. https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-sleep-revolution-5-hours-is-the-new-8/embed Space-out competition: How the winners are selected The winner of the Space-Out competition is selected based on heart rate stability and audience votes. The heart rate is monitored every 15 minutes, with a smooth and steady pulse showing that the contestant is truly relaxed. Audience votes consider who spaced out with the most flair, costume, or relatable story. Who won the 2025 Space-Out events? This year's event in Seoul was held on May 11. Punk rock group Pogo Attack took first prize at the Hangang Space-Out, while second place went to YouTube content creators Inssa Family. A special mention went to a group of soldiers unwinding on leave. More than 4,500 teams applied, and the event had a 57-to-1 competition ratio. A Space-Out event at the RISING Festival in Melbourne, Australia, was held on June 9. Amelia Lumley, aka 'Fountain Lady', who dressed in a costume complete with trickling water sounds to distract others, won the competition. In 2024, Denis Kwan Hong-Wang, an educational psychologist from Hong Kong, took the global Space-Out competition title by holding steady in a noisy shopping mall. In 2025, he went to Seoul to present trophies at this year's main event. What is the prize of the Space-Out competition? There is no entry fee. The rules are simple, and the expectation is silence and stillness. The trophy is modelled after ‘The Thinker’ sculpture, in a Korean hat. The Space-Out Competition is a parody, protest and art installation in equal measures. It is a performance art piece with a message: in a world running at full speed, maybe the bravest thing you can do is to just stop and breathe slowly. So, are you good at doing nothing? Maybe you should be at a Space-Out It might sound easy, but doing nothing for 90 minutes really takes some hard work. If you are overworked, burned out and want to really try doing nothing for a change, this might be your sport to try. Who knows, you might be next year's champion of chillout.

Launched in 2014 in Seoul, South Korea, by visual artist Woopsyang, Space-Out challenges participants to sit still, stay quiet, and unplug from everything for one and a half hours. In today's world of short attention spans, it is near-impossible

There's a global event to do absolutely nothing, and it's intense. What you didn't know about Space-Out competition

The brains of psychopaths are different from a normal person, a study has found. Certain specifications in their brain are not the same as most people, and this could be a contributing factor in making them psychopaths. People diagnosed with the conditions are often known to exhibit violent behaviour that can sometimes border on the extreme. Psychopaths are not always apparent to the world. Such people can have sudden outbursts. Sometimes their behaviour can prove to be harmful to others. Researchers from German and American universities used the Julich-Brain Atlas to identify specific brain structures in such people to understand their link with antisocial behaviour. They identified distinct neural networks pointing at structural brain differences in psychopaths. The study was carried out by scientists from Forschungszentrum Jülich, RWTH Aachen University, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Georg-August University (Germany), and the University of Pennsylvania on 39 men diagnosed with psychopathy. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/having-too-many-bad-dreams-you-might-be-ageing-faster-than-others-1752574255678">'Our sleeping brains...': Too many bad dreams? You might be ageing faster than others</a><h2>Brain regions of psychopaths are not same as regular people</h2>The researchers analysed their structural MRI scans and compared them to a control group with matching key characteristics. They used the Psychopathy Check-List (PCL-R) tool to look at two primary components: interpersonal-affective traits (factor 1) and lifestyle-antisocial behaviour (factor 2). Individuals with higher scores on factor 2 are known to have antisocial tendencies. The study found that such people had reduced volumes in several brain regions, like the basal ganglia, thalamus and basal forebrain, along with a similar occurrence in parts of the brainstem (pons), cerebellum, and cortical regions. All these brain regions are responsible for helping a person regulate their emotions, impulse control and social behaviour. Factor 1 traits, such as pathological lying and lack of empathy, had weaker associations.<h2>Who is a psychopath?</h2>When the two groups were compared, a significant reduction in total brain volume was noted in the psychopathy group. The major difference in volume was seen in the right subiculum, a part of the hippocampus involved in memory. Scientists concluded that there was a strong neurobiological link between antisocial behaviour and reduced brain volume across widespread regions. The latest research builds on the neuropsychobiological correlates of aggression. A more in-depth study of the same will be carried out by the universities at Heidelberg and Frankfurt next year.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Who is a psychopath? What makes a person a psychopath? Scientists studied the brains of such people and tried to figure out why they acted the way they did, and what makes them antisocial. They found that their brains were different from a regular person.

The brains of psychopaths are different from a normal person, a study has found. Certain specifications in their brain are not the same as most people, and this could be a contributing factor in making them psychopaths. People diagnosed with the conditions are often known to exhibit violent behaviour that can sometimes border on the extreme. Psychopaths are not always apparent to the world. Such people can have sudden outbursts. Sometimes their behaviour can prove to be harmful to others. Researchers from German and American universities used the Julich-Brain Atlas to identify specific brain structures in such people to understand their link with antisocial behaviour. They identified distinct neural networks pointing at structural brain differences in psychopaths. The study was carried out by scientists from Forschungszentrum Jülich, RWTH Aachen University, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Georg-August University (Germany), and the University of Pennsylvania on 39 men diagnosed with psychopathy. Also Read: 'Our sleeping brains...': Too many bad dreams? You might be ageing faster than others Brain regions of psychopaths are not same as regular people The researchers analysed their structural MRI scans and compared them to a control group with matching key characteristics. They used the Psychopathy Check-List (PCL-R) tool to look at two primary components: interpersonal-affective traits (factor 1) and lifestyle-antisocial behaviour (factor 2). Individuals with higher scores on factor 2 are known to have antisocial tendencies. The study found that such people had reduced volumes in several brain regions, like the basal ganglia, thalamus and basal forebrain, along with a similar occurrence in parts of the brainstem (pons), cerebellum, and cortical regions. All these brain regions are responsible for helping a person regulate their emotions, impulse control and social behaviour. Factor 1 traits, such as pathological lying and lack of empathy, had weaker associations. Who is a psychopath? When the two groups were compared, a significant reduction in total brain volume was noted in the psychopathy group. The major difference in volume was seen in the right subiculum, a part of the hippocampus involved in memory. Scientists concluded that there was a strong neurobiological link between antisocial behaviour and reduced brain volume across widespread regions. The latest research builds on the neuropsychobiological correlates of aggression. A more in-depth study of the same will be carried out by the universities at Heidelberg and Frankfurt next year.

Who is a psychopath? What makes a person a psychopath? Scientists studied the brains of such people and tried to figure out why they acted the way they did, and what makes them antisocial. They found that their brains were different from a regular person's.

What makes a person PSYCHOPATH? Scientists reveal the problem with their brain

Mobile phone addiction: Indian parents, are you monitoring how much time your child spends on mobile phones, TV screens and computers daily? If it is more than two hours, it is double the recommended limit per day. This is the shocking claim made in a recent study, which found that even children aged below two are spending an average of 1.2 hours on screens, at an age that is supposed to be completely without screens.&nbsp;<h2>Why are children spending more time on TV and mobiles? How it starts way too early</h2>It starts quite early. Parents are now using mobile phones as pacifiers for children. It is not uncommon to see them switching on their mobile phones and handing them over to children, even babies, to stop them from crying. Many parents play the lullabies and nursery songs on YouTube and other apps to keep their child busy and engaged while they go about their chores. It is having a detrimental effect on the children.<h2>What does the shocking study say about Indian children's screen time?</h2>The new study was conducted by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in Raipur. It concluded that kids aged below five in India are spending an average of 2.2 hours on screens, every day. This is double the recommended limit, said the study by Ashish Khobragade and M Swathi Shenoy of AIIMS Raipur.&nbsp; For children under two, the mean screen time is 1.2 hours, as per the study published in Cureus.&nbsp;For that age, most guidelines say that screentime should be completely avoided.<h2>Screentime can slow language development, says study on Indian children</h2>The study linked excessive screen exposure to a slowdown in language development, and decreased cognitive function.Poor social skills, obesity, disturbed sleep, and concentration problems are other side effects, said the research, which reached its conclusions based on a meta-analysis of 10 studies involving 2,857 children.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/teens-ditch-screens-a-new-trend-emerges-774821/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/teens-ditch-screens-a-new-trend-emerges-774821/embed</a><h2>Tech-free zones, screen time limits, and offline interactions needed</h2>Among the suggestions made in the study are ‘tech-free zones’ and consistent screen time limits. It also recommended more offline interactions, which in plain terms means playing with other kids and spending time with parents and family members.&nbsp;Nearly 60-70 per cent of children under five years are spending more time on screen than recommended, Dr DK Gupta of Felix Hospitals told the Times of India newspaper in a report on the study.&nbsp;Gupta warned that excessive screentime could lead to "serious physical and behavioural problems."&nbsp;<h2>Lead by example: Parents should reduce their own screentime</h2>The main issue here is that parents these days use a lot of screen time, either for work or recreation. It is only natural for the child to be attracted to mobile phones and want to play, considering them as toys. Once hooked, it is really difficult to wean them off.Dr Gupta told ToI that parents should become role models and reduce their own screen time at home first.In the north indian city of Ghaziabad, a chief medical officer issued an advisory urging parents to engage kids in outdoor and social activities to counter mobile addiction.&nbsp;"I get children as young as 10- to 12-year-olds... complaining about restlessness" when screen use is limited, often showing aggressive behaviour," the ToI reported a doctor as saying.

Even children aged below two are spending an average of 1.2 hours on screens, whereas this age is supposed to be completely without screens.
 

Mobile phone addiction: Indian parents, are you monitoring how much time your child spends on mobile phones, TV screens and computers daily? If it is more than two hours, it is double the recommended limit per day. This is the shocking claim made in a recent study, which found that even children aged below two are spending an average of 1.2 hours on screens, at an age that is supposed to be completely without screens. Why are children spending more time on TV and mobiles? How it starts way too early It starts quite early. Parents are now using mobile phones as pacifiers for children. It is not uncommon to see them switching on their mobile phones and handing them over to children, even babies, to stop them from crying. Many parents play the lullabies and nursery songs on YouTube and other apps to keep their child busy and engaged while they go about their chores. It is having a detrimental effect on the children. What does the shocking study say about Indian children's screen time? The new study was conducted by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in Raipur. It concluded that kids aged below five in India are spending an average of 2.2 hours on screens, every day. This is double the recommended limit, said the study by Ashish Khobragade and M Swathi Shenoy of AIIMS Raipur. For children under two, the mean screen time is 1.2 hours, as per the study published in Cureus. For that age, most guidelines say that screentime should be completely avoided. Screentime can slow language development, says study on Indian children The study linked excessive screen exposure to a slowdown in language development, and decreased cognitive function. Poor social skills, obesity, disturbed sleep, and concentration problems are other side effects, said the research, which reached its conclusions based on a meta-analysis of 10 studies involving 2,857 children. https://www.wionews.com/videos/teens-ditch-screens-a-new-trend-emerges-774821/embed Tech-free zones, screen time limits, and offline interactions needed Among the suggestions made in the study are ‘tech-free zones’ and consistent screen time limits. It also recommended more offline interactions, which in plain terms means playing with other kids and spending time with parents and family members. Nearly 60-70 per cent of children under five years are spending more time on screen than recommended, Dr DK Gupta of Felix Hospitals told the Times of India newspaper in a report on the study. Gupta warned that excessive screentime could lead to "serious physical and behavioural problems." Lead by example: Parents should reduce their own screentime The main issue here is that parents these days use a lot of screen time, either for work or recreation. It is only natural for the child to be attracted to mobile phones and want to play, considering them as toys. Once hooked, it is really difficult to wean them off. Dr Gupta told ToI that parents should become role models and reduce their own screen time at home first. In the north indian city of Ghaziabad, a chief medical officer issued an advisory urging parents to engage kids in outdoor and social activities to counter mobile addiction. "I get children as young as 10- to 12-year-olds... complaining about restlessness" when screen use is limited, often showing aggressive behaviour," the ToI reported a doctor as saying.

Even children aged below two are spending an average of 1.2 hours on screens, whereas this age is supposed to be completely without screens. &nbsp;

Indian parents, BEWARE! Is your child spending over 2.5 hours on phones, computers, TV screens daily? That's…

The root cause of Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) might be more physical than mental, a study by Chinese researchers has found. It states that bacteria living in our gut could be responsible for OCD in most people. The study aimed to understand the link between the gut microbiota and OCD, and whether it plays a role in a person developing OCD. The team identified six types of bacteria that appear to be linked with the condition. Out brain and the gut have often been found to have a connection, with mental health affecting how the digestive system acts. However, this is the first time that scientists have gathered evidence that shows gut bacteria affects mental health conditions.&nbsp;Researchers from Chongqing Medical University wrote in their published paper, "Previous studies have indicated a potential link between the gut microbiota and OCD. However, the exact causal relationship remains uncertain. Our analysis suggested that specific gut microbiota might have a causal relationship with OCD, revealing potential intervention strategies for the prevention and treatment of this disorder."&nbsp;To establish a causal effect between the two, the Chinese researchers used a genetic approach known as Mendelian randomization where they analysed genetic variants that influence both OCD and gut bacteria. They took two sets of samples, in one of which they assessed links between genetic data and gut bacteria in 18,340 people. In the second one, consisting of 199,169 people, they studied the connection between genetic data and OCD. the Mendelian randomization helped them bridge the gap and connect gut bacteria patterns with OCD.&nbsp;The study found that the presence of one set of three bacteria protected against OCD, while another three upped the risk of OCD. Proteobacteria, Ruminococcaceae, and Bilophila fell in the first group, and Bacillales, Eubacterium, and Lachnospiraceae UCG001 were responsible for OCD. A link between gut and brain is not a new revelation. A past study found that low levels of Ruminococcaceae species could cause depression. "Future research should employ longitudinal designs and diverse populations to validate and expand upon these findings, as well as a more in-depth classification of microbes and their metabolic products, to further understand the role of gut microbiota in OCD," write the researchers.Scientists are hopeful that the latest research on gut microbe and OCD could help treat the condition some day. However, that might be still far off into the future. The research was published in the Journal of Affective Disorders. &nbsp;

If you also suffer from Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), then the root cause might not be fully mental. Scientists have discovered a strange source for such behaviour. 

The root cause of Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) might be more physical than mental, a study by Chinese researchers has found. It states that bacteria living in our gut could be responsible for OCD in most people. The study aimed to understand the link between the gut microbiota and OCD, and whether it plays a role in a person developing OCD. The team identified six types of bacteria that appear to be linked with the condition. Out brain and the gut have often been found to have a connection, with mental health affecting how the digestive system acts. However, this is the first time that scientists have gathered evidence that shows gut bacteria affects mental health conditions. Researchers from Chongqing Medical University wrote in their published paper, "Previous studies have indicated a potential link between the gut microbiota and OCD. However, the exact causal relationship remains uncertain. Our analysis suggested that specific gut microbiota might have a causal relationship with OCD, revealing potential intervention strategies for the prevention and treatment of this disorder." To establish a causal effect between the two, the Chinese researchers used a genetic approach known as Mendelian randomization where they analysed genetic variants that influence both OCD and gut bacteria. They took two sets of samples, in one of which they assessed links between genetic data and gut bacteria in 18,340 people. In the second one, consisting of 199,169 people, they studied the connection between genetic data and OCD. the Mendelian randomization helped them bridge the gap and connect gut bacteria patterns with OCD. The study found that the presence of one set of three bacteria protected against OCD, while another three upped the risk of OCD. Proteobacteria, Ruminococcaceae, and Bilophila fell in the first group, and Bacillales, Eubacterium, and Lachnospiraceae UCG001 were responsible for OCD. A link between gut and brain is not a new revelation. A past study found that low levels of Ruminococcaceae species could cause depression. "Future research should employ longitudinal designs and diverse populations to validate and expand upon these findings, as well as a more in-depth classification of microbes and their metabolic products, to further understand the role of gut microbiota in OCD," write the researchers. Scientists are hopeful that the latest research on gut microbe and OCD could help treat the condition some day. However, that might be still far off into the future. The research was published in the Journal of Affective Disorders.

If you also suffer from Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), then the root cause might not be fully mental. Scientists have discovered a strange source for such behaviour.&nbsp;

Repeatedly checking locks, gas and switches? The culprit is not your brain. Problem lies in...

AI is transforming mental health care by detecting early signs of distress, such as suicidal thoughts, through voice assistants and social media. By analyzing language, behavior, and online activity, AI can help offer support, but it works best alongside human care for a complete approach.

AI is transforming mental health care by detecting early signs of distress, such as suicidal thoughts, through voice assistants and social media. By analyzing language, behavior, and online activity, AI can help offer support, but it works best alongside human care for a complete approach.

Can AI prevent suicide? How technology is changing mental health care

A healthy diet is directly linked to our physical health. To keep cardiovascular disease, gut issues, and more at bay, people are often advised to consume a diet full of vegetables and fruits while avoiding processed foods. Experts say that what you eat not only affects your body but also your mind. So if you are feeling mentally unhealthy, sad or depressed, it might be time to look at what you are putting on your plate.
Wolfgang Marx, deputy director of the Food &amp; Mood Centre at Deakin University in Australia and president of the International Society for Nutritional Psychiatry Research, was quoted by National Geographic as saying that "our food choices can affect brain function, mood, and mental health disorders."
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/can-sugary-drinks-increase-risk-of-oral-cancer-shocking-study-links-popular-drinks-with-deadly-disease-8863324" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Can sugary drinks increase risk of oral cancer? Shocking study links popular drinks with deadly disease</a>
Ultra-processed foods are often blamed as the biggest culprits when it comes to our overall health, and our mental health, it seems, is no exception. Marx and other researchers carried out research in 2024 on "Ultra-processed food exposure and adverse health outcomes". What they found was that the same food that affects our physical health can also negatively impact our mental well-being.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/kissing-oral-sex-can-lead-to-dementia-scientists-reveal-you-can-catch-this-virus-in-bedroom-8858233" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Kissing, oral sex can lead to dementia. Scientists reveal you can catch THIS virus in 'bedroom'</a>
&ldquo;Diets high in ultra-processed foods and low in nutrient quality are consistently associated with a higher risk of depression and anxiety," Marx said.
Certain beverages should also be limited since they can impact mood and cognitive health. Consumption of drinks containing caffeine should be limited, while alcohol should also be cut down on for better mental health.
So, energy drinks, sweetened beverages, fried food, and trans fats should be consumed cautiously.
The researchers found that such a diet can affect heart health and cause "common mental disorders and mortality outcomes."
<h2>What to eat for better mental health?</h2>
What came as no surprise is the food that one should be consuming for better mental health. Scientists say diets comprising vegetables, fruits, unprocessed grains, fish, and seafood, are best for mental health. It was reinforced by a Harvard study that stressed that traditional diets that contain these foods are the best for mental health.&nbsp;
For example, the Mediterranean diet or the traditional Japanese diet was found much better than others since they not only comprised the above-mentioned foods but included a very small amount of lean meats and dairy. These diets are also sans processed and refined foods and sugar, making them better for overall health. Many of the items are fermented, making them great for gut health.
However, experts say that while diet plays a part in mental health, it is also important to reach out for other available tools, such as therapy.&nbsp;

Trending | Lifestyle | Entertainment: What you eat can affect brain function, mood, and mental health. Experts say people looking to improve their mental health should be careful about what they are eating.

A healthy diet is directly linked to our physical health. To keep cardiovascular disease, gut issues, and more at bay, people are often advised to consume a diet full of vegetables and fruits while avoiding processed foods. Experts say that what you eat not only affects your body but also your mind. So if you are feeling mentally unhealthy, sad or depressed, it might be time to look at what you are putting on your plate. Wolfgang Marx, deputy director of the Food & Mood Centre at Deakin University in Australia and president of the International Society for Nutritional Psychiatry Research, was quoted by National Geographic as saying that "our food choices can affect brain function, mood, and mental health disorders." Also Read: Can sugary drinks increase risk of oral cancer? Shocking study links popular drinks with deadly disease Ultra-processed foods are often blamed as the biggest culprits when it comes to our overall health, and our mental health, it seems, is no exception. Marx and other researchers carried out research in 2024 on "Ultra-processed food exposure and adverse health outcomes". What they found was that the same food that affects our physical health can also negatively impact our mental well-being. Also Read: Kissing, oral sex can lead to dementia. Scientists reveal you can catch THIS virus in 'bedroom' “Diets high in ultra-processed foods and low in nutrient quality are consistently associated with a higher risk of depression and anxiety," Marx said. Certain beverages should also be limited since they can impact mood and cognitive health. Consumption of drinks containing caffeine should be limited, while alcohol should also be cut down on for better mental health. So, energy drinks, sweetened beverages, fried food, and trans fats should be consumed cautiously. The researchers found that such a diet can affect heart health and cause "common mental disorders and mortality outcomes." What to eat for better mental health? What came as no surprise is the food that one should be consuming for better mental health. Scientists say diets comprising vegetables, fruits, unprocessed grains, fish, and seafood, are best for mental health. It was reinforced by a Harvard study that stressed that traditional diets that contain these foods are the best for mental health. For example, the Mediterranean diet or the traditional Japanese diet was found much better than others since they not only comprised the above-mentioned foods but included a very small amount of lean meats and dairy. These diets are also sans processed and refined foods and sugar, making them better for overall health. Many of the items are fermented, making them great for gut health. However, experts say that while diet plays a part in mental health, it is also important to reach out for other available tools, such as therapy.

What not to eat for great mental health, as per experts

New research suggests that consuming citrus fruits may help reduce the risk of depression by up to 20%. This discovery highlights the potential connection between gut health and mental well-being.

Orange can reduce risk of depression by 20%: Study

How often do you find yourself saying you got a gut feeling about something? It could be good or bad, but what about how your gut is feeling? Well, it definitely needs to be feeling good. Your gut health, after all, is more important than you think. In fact, what's happening in your gut is also linked to your mental health. What if you were told that having kimchi and other probiotic foods...

How gut health is linked to your mental health?

A 15-year-old schoolgirl in Bengaluru tragically died by suicide after reportedly being scolded by her mother over phone use. The incident took place at a high-rise building where she jumped from the 20th floor. Police have registered a case of unnatural death, and her parents are yet to give their official.

Scolded by mother, schoolgirl jumps off 20th floor

Negative behavior from pet owners, such as inconsistent routines or emotional distress, can significantly heighten a pet's anxiety. Understanding how owner actions affect pets is crucial for improving their mental health and well-being.

Can Negative Owner Behavior Increase Pet Anxiety?

Meta, the owner of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, reacted with fury after Australia passed a law banning children under 16 from social media, while a minister warned tech firms the government will 'get after them' if they don't 'play ball'.

In the first such move in the world, Australia passed a law on Thursday (Nov 28) to ban under-16s from social media, citing mental health issues among other things.

The law stipulates that failure to comply would incur penalties worth up to $50 million on social media companies.

Watch: UNESCO: Influencers Don't Verify Information | 62% Digital Content Creators Don't Check Facts: Study

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Despite their initial resistance, most major tech companies with social media platforms have grudgingly agreed to comply with the ban.

But after the law was passed, a Meta spokesperson accused the government of failing to consider young people’s voices and rushing the legislation.

“We are concerned about the process which rushed the legislation through while failing to properly consider the evidence, what industry already does to ensure age-appropriate experiences, and the voices of young people,” a Meta spokesperson said as quoted by The Guardian newspaper. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-passes-social-media-ban-on-children-under-16-becomes-first-country-to-take-such-measure-779993">Australia passes social media ban on children under 16, becomes first country to take such measure</a>

The spokesperson of the Mark Zuckerberg-owned tech giant urged 'productive consultation on all rules' of the bill 'to ensure a technically feasible outcome that does not place an onerous burden on parents and teens'.

Meta also sought a commitment that the rules will apply to all social media apps used by teens.

X owner Elon Musk had opposed the law as a 'backdoor way to control access to the Internet' for all Australians.

But the government is digging its heels on the matter.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-pushes-ahead-bill-banning-children-from-social-media-linkedin-says-its-too-dull-for-kids-779519">Australia clears bill banning children from social media, LinkedIn says its platform is 'too dull for kids'</a> 
 
Cabinet minister Murray Watt warned that social media firms "should take the ban seriously."

“Between those fines and social pressure, we will see social media companies play ball – and if they don’t, then we have the ability to go after them,” Watt said.

While the opposition supported the ban saying the benefits outweigh the risks, one independent MP criticised it.&nbsp;

Opposition's shadow communications minister David Coleman speaking to Sky News, asked: "What other generation in history has grown up being exposed to as much damaging content as this generation?”

Independent MP Kylea Tink called the bill a ‘1970 solution for a 2024 problem’, adding the ban was 'headline-grabbing', without saying what it would do.

It's a "piece of legislation that’s grabbing headlines, not only here but right around the world," she said, while speaking to ABC RN channel.

"But will it make any child under 16 safer on social media today? No. And in fact, it will create a high degree of anxiety amongst young Australians who are using their social media platforms to feel like they’re part of a community that may not be in their immediate circle," she added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Meta, the owner of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, reacted with fury after Australia passed a law banning children under 16 from social media, while a minister warned tech firms the government will 'get after them' if they don't 'play ball'.

Meta, the owner of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, reacted with fury after Australia passed a law banning children under 16 from social media, while a minister warned tech firms the government will 'get after them' if they don't 'play ball'. In the first such move in the world, Australia passed a law on Thursday (Nov 28) to ban under-16s from social media, citing mental health issues among other things. The law stipulates that failure to comply would incur penalties worth up to $50 million on social media companies. Watch: UNESCO: Influencers Don't Verify Information | 62% Digital Content Creators Don't Check Facts: Study × Despite their initial resistance, most major tech companies with social media platforms have grudgingly agreed to comply with the ban. But after the law was passed, a Meta spokesperson accused the government of failing to consider young people’s voices and rushing the legislation. “We are concerned about the process which rushed the legislation through while failing to properly consider the evidence, what industry already does to ensure age-appropriate experiences, and the voices of young people,” a Meta spokesperson said as quoted by The Guardian newspaper. Australia passes social media ban on children under 16, becomes first country to take such measure The spokesperson of the Mark Zuckerberg-owned tech giant urged 'productive consultation on all rules' of the bill 'to ensure a technically feasible outcome that does not place an onerous burden on parents and teens'. Meta also sought a commitment that the rules will apply to all social media apps used by teens. X owner Elon Musk had opposed the law as a 'backdoor way to control access to the Internet' for all Australians. But the government is digging its heels on the matter. Australia clears bill banning children from social media, LinkedIn says its platform is 'too dull for kids' Cabinet minister Murray Watt warned that social media firms "should take the ban seriously." “Between those fines and social pressure, we will see social media companies play ball – and if they don’t, then we have the ability to go after them,” Watt said. While the opposition supported the ban saying the benefits outweigh the risks, one independent MP criticised it. Opposition's shadow communications minister David Coleman speaking to Sky News, asked: "What other generation in history has grown up being exposed to as much damaging content as this generation?” Independent MP Kylea Tink called the bill a ‘1970 solution for a 2024 problem’, adding the ban was 'headline-grabbing', without saying what it would do. It's a "piece of legislation that’s grabbing headlines, not only here but right around the world," she said, while speaking to ABC RN channel. "But will it make any child under 16 safer on social media today? No. And in fact, it will create a high degree of anxiety amongst young Australians who are using their social media platforms to feel like they’re part of a community that may not be in their immediate circle," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia social media ban for under-16s: Meta slams law, minister says 'play ball' or will 'get after them'

Round-up of top and latest news from the world of technology: - TikTok Restricts Beauty Filters For Teens To Address Mental Health Concerns - Report: India Lost $1.3 Million To Cyber Fraud In 2024 - UK Reviews EV Rules Amid Fears Of Factory Closures And Job Losses

TikTok Restricts Beauty Filters For Teens To Address Mental Health Concerns

To improve looks and artificially making their features look better, teenagers have been using filters on social media platforms to alter their real look. The billion-user social media company, TikTok, is now imposing several restrictions on the use of beauty filters due to rise in anxiety concerns and falling self-esteem.&nbsp;

In the upcoming weeks, teenagers will be restricted from artificially making their eyes bigger, plumping their lips, and smoothing or changing their face tone.&nbsp;

These restrictions will be applied to filters, including&nbsp;'Bold Glamour'&nbsp;that changes people's features in a way that makeup cannot.&nbsp;

However, comic filters that add dog's ears, noses, or bunny ears would not be affected.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-government-bans-tiktoks-business-in-country-app-access-continues-774376">Also read:&nbsp;Canadian government bans TikTok’s business in country, app access continues</a>

TikTok announced this change during a safety forum at its European headquarters in Dublin.&nbsp;

Moreover, the efficacy of these restrictions will depend on the people using the social media platform with their real age, which is not exactly the case always.&nbsp;

These filters on such platforms, some provided by TikTok, meanwhile, others created by users, have caused pressure on teenagers, specifically girls, to adopt a polished physical appearance with negative emotional repercussions.&nbsp;

Earlier, TikTok also announced that they were bringing changes in their systems to block users under 13 from the platform, which could potentially remove thousands of British children from accessing the platform.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;US TikTok Ban: Creators oppose TikTok ban as short-video app fights for survival

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Chloe Setter, TikTok’s lead on child safety public policy, said, “We’re hoping that this will give us the ability to detect and remove more and more quickly.”

However, people who are wrongly blocked would be able to raise queries and appeal. “It can obviously be annoying for some young people,” said Setter, but she added that the platform will take a “safety-first approach”.

Moreover, before the end of this year, it will also come up with a trial of new automated systems that use machine learning to identify people who are not abiding by the age restrictions.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

To improve looks and artificially making their features look better, teenagers have been using filters on social media platforms to alter their real look. The billion-user social media company, TikTok, is now imposing several restrictions on the use of beauty filters due to rise in anxiety concerns and falling self-esteem.

To improve looks and artificially making their features look better, teenagers have been using filters on social media platforms to alter their real look. The billion-user social media company, TikTok, is now imposing several restrictions on the use of beauty filters due to rise in anxiety concerns and falling self-esteem. In the upcoming weeks, teenagers will be restricted from artificially making their eyes bigger, plumping their lips, and smoothing or changing their face tone. These restrictions will be applied to filters, including 'Bold Glamour' that changes people's features in a way that makeup cannot. However, comic filters that add dog's ears, noses, or bunny ears would not be affected. Also read: Canadian government bans TikTok’s business in country, app access continues TikTok announced this change during a safety forum at its European headquarters in Dublin. Moreover, the efficacy of these restrictions will depend on the people using the social media platform with their real age, which is not exactly the case always. These filters on such platforms, some provided by TikTok, meanwhile, others created by users, have caused pressure on teenagers, specifically girls, to adopt a polished physical appearance with negative emotional repercussions. Earlier, TikTok also announced that they were bringing changes in their systems to block users under 13 from the platform, which could potentially remove thousands of British children from accessing the platform. Watch | US TikTok Ban: Creators oppose TikTok ban as short-video app fights for survival × Chloe Setter, TikTok’s lead on child safety public policy, said, “We’re hoping that this will give us the ability to detect and remove more and more quickly.” However, people who are wrongly blocked would be able to raise queries and appeal. “It can obviously be annoying for some young people,” said Setter, but she added that the platform will take a “safety-first approach”. Moreover, before the end of this year, it will also come up with a trial of new automated systems that use machine learning to identify people who are not abiding by the age restrictions. (With inputs from agencies)

Teenagers to be restricted from using beauty filters on TikTok over mental health concerns

In today’s fast-paced work environment, burnout and work-life balance have become increasingly critical concerns for employees and employers alike. Many businesses are rethinking traditional workplace practices to foster environments where mental health is prioritized, and employee well-being is integrated into the corporate culture. Watch in for more details!

Is Your Job Helping Or Hurting Mental Health?

Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan has revealed that he and his daughter Ira have been undergoing therapy sessions together. The actor, who is been on a break from acting for the past two years, has been spending quality time with his family.&nbsp; 
 
In a video shared by Netflix India, Aamir and Ira can be seen discussing mental health with Dr Vivek Murthy. 
 
"Therapy is so helpful. I think she (Ira) pushed me down that path. I would strongly recommend therapy to anyone who feels the need for it? It has been helpful for me. Ira and I also have started joint therapy. The two of us go to a therapist for our own relationship. To work on how to make that better and issues which have been there for over years," said the actor.&nbsp;

Khan asserted that therapy had the power to heal minds. "Therapy is a very powerful thing. I'm a fairly intelligent guy. I can think things through. I'm a sensible guy. If there's an issue, I can sort it out for myself. But no, I can't. It doesn't matter how intelligent you are. It doesn't matter how worldly-wise you are. We know so little about our minds... That a person who has a lot more knowledge and has got the basics right really helps you in leaps and bounds to understand it. In India, a lot of us feel if I go for therapy, I have a mental problem. I don't want people to know I'm going for therapy. But it is okay need help. I have benefited greatly from therapy." 
 
This isn't the first time that the father-daughter duo have engaged in a conversation about mental -health.&nbsp;

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Ira shared a video to spread awareness and break the taboo around the topic. She was also joined by her father Aamir Khan. In the video, released on Instagram, Aamir explained, "Zindagi mai aise bahut se kaam hai jo hum khud nahi kar pate, jismai hume kisi aur vyakti ki madad lagti hai jo woh kaam janta hai. Aur aise faisle hum badi asani se le lete hai baigair kisi sharam ke, baigair kisi jhijak ke. (There are a lot of things in our life that we cannot do. To fulfill such tasks, we seek help from others, who know the job pretty well. And, we take such decisions very easily, without any guilt or embarrassment.)" 
 
Ira Khan has been an open advocate for mental health awareness. She launched the Agastu Foundation in 2021 which works towards "making mental well-being more accessible". Ira is Aamir Khan and his first wife Reena Dutt's daughter.&nbsp;

Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan has revealed that he and his daughter Ira have been undergoing therapy sessions together. The actor, who is been on a break from acting for the past two years, has been spending quality time with his family.

Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan has revealed that he and his daughter Ira have been undergoing therapy sessions together. The actor, who is been on a break from acting for the past two years, has been spending quality time with his family. In a video shared by Netflix India, Aamir and Ira can be seen discussing mental health with Dr Vivek Murthy. "Therapy is so helpful. I think she (Ira) pushed me down that path. I would strongly recommend therapy to anyone who feels the need for it? It has been helpful for me. Ira and I also have started joint therapy. The two of us go to a therapist for our own relationship. To work on how to make that better and issues which have been there for over years," said the actor. Khan asserted that therapy had the power to heal minds. "Therapy is a very powerful thing. I'm a fairly intelligent guy. I can think things through. I'm a sensible guy. If there's an issue, I can sort it out for myself. But no, I can't. It doesn't matter how intelligent you are. It doesn't matter how worldly-wise you are. We know so little about our minds... That a person who has a lot more knowledge and has got the basics right really helps you in leaps and bounds to understand it. In India, a lot of us feel if I go for therapy, I have a mental problem. I don't want people to know I'm going for therapy. But it is okay need help. I have benefited greatly from therapy." This isn't the first time that the father-daughter duo have engaged in a conversation about mental -health. Ira shared a video to spread awareness and break the taboo around the topic. She was also joined by her father Aamir Khan. In the video, released on Instagram, Aamir explained, "Zindagi mai aise bahut se kaam hai jo hum khud nahi kar pate, jismai hume kisi aur vyakti ki madad lagti hai jo woh kaam janta hai. Aur aise faisle hum badi asani se le lete hai baigair kisi sharam ke, baigair kisi jhijak ke. (There are a lot of things in our life that we cannot do. To fulfill such tasks, we seek help from others, who know the job pretty well. And, we take such decisions very easily, without any guilt or embarrassment.)" Ira Khan has been an open advocate for mental health awareness. She launched the Agastu Foundation in 2021 which works towards "making mental well-being more accessible". Ira is Aamir Khan and his first wife Reena Dutt's daughter.

Aamir Khan reveals he goes for joint therapy with daughter Ira: 'It has been helpful'

After the incident of Gisele Pelicot in France, who was raped by her ex-husband and 50 other men, rape victims in England and Wales have echoed Pelicot's message saying that "shame belongs to perpetrators, not them", in the largest-ever survey of rape and sexual assault survivors, according to the government’s key adviser on the crime.

Three-quarters of respondents to the survey of rape and sexual assault survivors said their mental health was damaged “as a direct result of what police did, or failed to do, in their case".&nbsp;

Moreover, only one in 10 said they would report again, the researchers stated.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-rape-case-avignon-rapist-wanted-to-offer-wife-to-truckers-770567">Also read:&nbsp;Avignon rapist husband wanted to offer wife to truckers, raped her in a motorway rest area</a>

However, how the criminal justice system deals with rape since 2021 shows the first "green shoots" of improving victims' experience of the criminal justice system.&nbsp;

Respondents after July last year were eight per cent likely to report damage to their mental health because of the police.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, only two in five respondents agreed that policing is doing fine.

Watch |&nbsp;France: Gisele Pelicot Narrates Her Harrowing Tale In Court

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Only one in five said that they have been pressured by officers to withdraw the case, with black and minority ethnic survivors having worse experiences than white respondents.&nbsp;

In December 2023, charges for sexual offences were up by 18 per cent compared with the previous year, while adult rape charges increased by 38 per cent in the same period.&nbsp;

“Some victims are getting better service now, but not all,” said Katrin Hohl, the lead researcher and the government’s independent adviser on rape.&nbsp;

“There are green shoots but there is clearly a long way to go. This is the first clear indication that Operation Soteria is the right model to back," she added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

After the incident of Gisele Pelicot in France, who was raped by her ex-husband and 50 other men, rape victims in England and Wales have echoed Pelicot's message saying that "shame belongs to perpetrators, not them", in the largest-ever survey of rape and sexual assault survivors, according to the government’s key adviser on the crime.

After the incident of Gisele Pelicot in France, who was raped by her ex-husband and 50 other men, rape victims in England and Wales have echoed Pelicot's message saying that "shame belongs to perpetrators, not them", in the largest-ever survey of rape and sexual assault survivors, according to the government’s key adviser on the crime. Three-quarters of respondents to the survey of rape and sexual assault survivors said their mental health was damaged “as a direct result of what police did, or failed to do, in their case". Moreover, only one in 10 said they would report again, the researchers stated. Also read: Avignon rapist husband wanted to offer wife to truckers, raped her in a motorway rest area However, how the criminal justice system deals with rape since 2021 shows the first "green shoots" of improving victims' experience of the criminal justice system. Respondents after July last year were eight per cent likely to report damage to their mental health because of the police. Meanwhile, only two in five respondents agreed that policing is doing fine. Watch | France: Gisele Pelicot Narrates Her Harrowing Tale In Court × Only one in five said that they have been pressured by officers to withdraw the case, with black and minority ethnic survivors having worse experiences than white respondents. In December 2023, charges for sexual offences were up by 18 per cent compared with the previous year, while adult rape charges increased by 38 per cent in the same period. “Some victims are getting better service now, but not all,” said Katrin Hohl, the lead researcher and the government’s independent adviser on rape. “There are green shoots but there is clearly a long way to go. This is the first clear indication that Operation Soteria is the right model to back," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Mental health of rape survivors in England, Wales damaged because of 'what police do, or fails to do': Report

The Australian government has proposed a ban on social media for the children under the age of 16. This initiative will make Australia a leader in global efforts to protect young online users. Watch this to know more.

Australia Considers Ban On Social Media For Children Under 16 By 2025

People born without the sense of smell breath differently, according to a new study.&nbsp;

The study published in Nature Communications Journal said those with the condition anosmia have a different breathing pattern than those with functioning olfactory systems.

To reach this conclusion, researchers from the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel examined 21 people born with anosmia and 31 who had normal smell capabilities.

Watch: Is sense of smell linked to cognitive health?

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Tacking their breathing patterns for 24 hours with airflow measurement devices, they found that those with sense of smell took more frequent sniffs, especially in environments with different odours.

The participants went through their normal daily lives while wearing the devices fitted into their nostrils to measure their airflow.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/our-sense-of-smell-may-not-be-as-good-as-dogs-but-we-are-better-than-earlier-thought-says-study-767685">Also read: Our sense of smell may not be as good as dogs', but we are better than earlier thought, says study</a>

The findings suggest that sniffing is a response to detect smells.

Those with anosmia exhibited more pauses in their breathing when awake, and also had lower airflow rates during exhalation.

The different breathing patterns were present during sleep and even when external smells were consistent, found the study.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/babies-use-scent-of-their-mothers-to-see-faces-of-people-study-742706">Also read: Babies use scent of their mothers to 'see' faces of people: Study</a>

But how are some people without a sense of smell?

“There’s this notion that this sense is completely unimportant, and yet if you lose it then a lot of bad things happen,” Noam Sobel, a co-author of the research, was quoted as saying in The Guardian.

While much of it is congenital, the loss of small has also been linked to various physical and mental health issues like depression.

In recent years, many people infected with Covid lost their sense of smell.

Though the study used machine learning to achieve an 83 per cent accuracy, the sample size is still small.&nbsp;

It nevertheless said that respiratory patterns could significantly impact physical and mental wellbeing.

(With inputs from agencies)

People born without the sense of smell breath differently, according to a new study. The study published in Nature Communications Journal said those with the condition anosmia have a different breathing pattern than those with functioning olfactory systems.

People born without the sense of smell breath differently, according to a new study. The study published in Nature Communications Journal said those with the condition anosmia have a different breathing pattern than those with functioning olfactory systems. To reach this conclusion, researchers from the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel examined 21 people born with anosmia and 31 who had normal smell capabilities. Watch: Is sense of smell linked to cognitive health? × Tacking their breathing patterns for 24 hours with airflow measurement devices, they found that those with sense of smell took more frequent sniffs, especially in environments with different odours. The participants went through their normal daily lives while wearing the devices fitted into their nostrils to measure their airflow. Also read: Our sense of smell may not be as good as dogs', but we are better than earlier thought, says study The findings suggest that sniffing is a response to detect smells. Those with anosmia exhibited more pauses in their breathing when awake, and also had lower airflow rates during exhalation. The different breathing patterns were present during sleep and even when external smells were consistent, found the study. Also read: Babies use scent of their mothers to 'see' faces of people: Study But how are some people without a sense of smell? “There’s this notion that this sense is completely unimportant, and yet if you lose it then a lot of bad things happen,” Noam Sobel, a co-author of the research, was quoted as saying in The Guardian. While much of it is congenital, the loss of small has also been linked to various physical and mental health issues like depression. In recent years, many people infected with Covid lost their sense of smell. Though the study used machine learning to achieve an 83 per cent accuracy, the sample size is still small. It nevertheless said that respiratory patterns could significantly impact physical and mental wellbeing. (With inputs from agencies)

Do people without sense of smell breathe differently? Study suggests so

AI-generated human avatars can deliver your scripts with perfect diction and look so natural. But what if the videos&nbsp;are used to support repressive regimes and criminal enterprises? This is what happened with avatars generated through the AI app Syenthesia, and the actual humans used for creating the AI models are now speaking up.

According to a report in The Guardian, the technology of the London-based startup that recently achieved unicorn status (market value of $1 billion) was deployed to support Ibrahim Traoré, who led the military coup of 2023 in Burkina Faso.

Well-groomed AI anchors were used in the videos that appeared on platforms like Telegram, asking people to rally behind the junta leader-turned-president.

Watch: Risks and dangers of artificial intelligence

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Synthesia mainly is intended for creating marketing videos. But the deepfakes were used for generating propaganda videos on the platform, violating its own terms of service.

The actors, on whose body language the AI models were trained, are feeling betrayed and their mental health impacted due to negative association.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/openai-says-cybercriminals-using-chatgpt-to-influence-us-elections-766330">Also read: OpenAI says cybercriminals using ChatGPT to influence US elections</a> 
 
Synthesia, which claims it has improved its content moderation, was belied as The Guardian was still able to generate videos by giving it controversial scripts.

The Synthesia videos were used in misinformation by states including Russia&nbsp;and China.&nbsp;

Two pro-Venezuela videos featuring fake news segments presented by Synthesia avatars&nbsp; appeared on YouTube and Facebook.&nbsp;One fake anchor condemned “western media claims” of economic instability and poverty in Venezuela.

In one video, an AI avatar said he is the chief executive of a cryptocurrency platform.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/artist-filed-copyright-for-this-ai-generated-art-it-was-denied-he-is-not-appealing-decision-765625">Also read: Artist filed copyright for this AI-generated art. It was denied. He is now appealing decision</a> 
 
Mark Torres, the actor who was the model behind the Burkina Faso video, told The Guardian he felt violated and vulnerable to see his image coopted.

“I’m in shock, there are no words right now....I have never felt so violated and vulnerable,” The Guardian quoted Torres as saying.

“I don’t want anyone viewing me like that. Just the fact that my image is out there, could be saying anything...People will think I am involved in the coup,” added Torres.

“Knowing that this company I trusted my image with will get away with such a thing makes me so angry. This could potentially cost lives, cost me my life when crossing a border for immigration.”

"It’s not me, it’s just my face. But they’ll think I’ve agreed to it,” said Dan Dewhirst, who acted in creating the original anchor that was used in the Venezuela video.

“Countless people contacted me about it … But there were probably other people who saw it and didn’t say anything, or quietly judged me for it."

“I was furious. It was really, really damaging to my mental health," he said, adding it caused an overwhelming amount of anxiety.

The Guardian also quoted an unidentified former Synthesia employee, who said that the AI cannot unlearn once its trained to create a model based on a real person's body language.

That would require the complete removal of the AI model, he said.

Synthesia told the paper that it does not allow stock avatars for political content, including 'content that is factually accurate but may create polarisation'. 
 
Founded in 2017 by a team including Victor Riparbelli and Steffen Tjerrild,&nbsp;Synthesia's clients include Microsoft, Zoom, Xerox and Ernst &amp; Young. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

AI-generated human avatars can deliver your scripts with perfect diction and look so natural. But what if the videos are used to support repressive regimes and criminal enterprises?

AI-generated human avatars can deliver your scripts with perfect diction and look so natural. But what if the videos are used to support repressive regimes and criminal enterprises? This is what happened with avatars generated through the AI app Syenthesia, and the actual humans used for creating the AI models are now speaking up. According to a report in The Guardian, the technology of the London-based startup that recently achieved unicorn status (market value of $1 billion) was deployed to support Ibrahim Traoré, who led the military coup of 2023 in Burkina Faso. Well-groomed AI anchors were used in the videos that appeared on platforms like Telegram, asking people to rally behind the junta leader-turned-president. Watch: Risks and dangers of artificial intelligence × Synthesia mainly is intended for creating marketing videos. But the deepfakes were used for generating propaganda videos on the platform, violating its own terms of service. The actors, on whose body language the AI models were trained, are feeling betrayed and their mental health impacted due to negative association. Also read: OpenAI says cybercriminals using ChatGPT to influence US elections Synthesia, which claims it has improved its content moderation, was belied as The Guardian was still able to generate videos by giving it controversial scripts. The Synthesia videos were used in misinformation by states including Russia and China. Two pro-Venezuela videos featuring fake news segments presented by Synthesia avatars appeared on YouTube and Facebook. One fake anchor condemned “western media claims” of economic instability and poverty in Venezuela. In one video, an AI avatar said he is the chief executive of a cryptocurrency platform. Also read: Artist filed copyright for this AI-generated art. It was denied. He is now appealing decision Mark Torres, the actor who was the model behind the Burkina Faso video, told The Guardian he felt violated and vulnerable to see his image coopted. “I’m in shock, there are no words right now....I have never felt so violated and vulnerable,” The Guardian quoted Torres as saying. “I don’t want anyone viewing me like that. Just the fact that my image is out there, could be saying anything...People will think I am involved in the coup,” added Torres. “Knowing that this company I trusted my image with will get away with such a thing makes me so angry. This could potentially cost lives, cost me my life when crossing a border for immigration.” "It’s not me, it’s just my face. But they’ll think I’ve agreed to it,” said Dan Dewhirst, who acted in creating the original anchor that was used in the Venezuela video. “Countless people contacted me about it … But there were probably other people who saw it and didn’t say anything, or quietly judged me for it." “I was furious. It was really, really damaging to my mental health," he said, adding it caused an overwhelming amount of anxiety. The Guardian also quoted an unidentified former Synthesia employee, who said that the AI cannot unlearn once its trained to create a model based on a real person's body language. That would require the complete removal of the AI model, he said. Synthesia told the paper that it does not allow stock avatars for political content, including 'content that is factually accurate but may create polarisation'. Founded in 2017 by a team including Victor Riparbelli and Steffen Tjerrild, Synthesia's clients include Microsoft, Zoom, Xerox and Ernst & Young. (With inputs from agencies)

Fake videos of AI avatars were used to promote brutal regimes. Now actors behind them are speaking up

If you find yourself reading an article attempting to make a curious case of emphasis on children’s mental health almost a week after Mental Health Day, it is because it’s appearing fashionably late! That is how late we are as a society at noticing a child’s state of mind whom we always assume happy. &nbsp;

Why bother about a child’s mental health? Children of ages 12 and below spend most of their time playing, sleeping or avoiding school homework. But, when you go for a therapy session, have you ever wondered: why did the therapist ask you about your childhood? Why were you quiet, unable to explain a thing? Or worse, you didn’t want to talk about it. Chances are that your adulthood traumas that need therapy took root in your personality when you were quite little; a child who wanted to talk but had nobody to communicate with. NO SAFE SPACE.

Speaking on therapy sessions, Pooja Priyamvada, who is a mental health counsellor and media educator, said, “I believe childhood shapes your entire life.” Many people have&nbsp;had a successful professional life, “but one incident from childhood, whether it was abandonment, whether it was physical abuse or sexual abuse; that keeps haunting them and affecting them in ways that they do not even know about. So, their personal relationships suffer.”

Based in Vancouver, Canada, Host and writer of the Alone Together podcast, Peg Fong claims that the pandemic may have made the situation worse because kids spent a lot of time at home and on screen.

She says, “The pandemic had a significant impact on young people, we are now seeing a generation that was born during lockdown. At a time when children are interacting with other toddlers and kids their own age in playgrounds and in daycare, instead, they were spending the time indoors and on screens.”

<h3>What parents think</h3>

Discussing children’s mental health between ages 1 to 12, a parent said, “Do they even understand the status of their mental health? Is there any awareness in this kind of age group? I don’t think so.”

Another parent stated that if a child has issues, it starts building at home. The environment at home affects how they begin to think at an early age.

In general, parents find it tough to navigate a child’s mental health status as they have very little awareness about it.

<h3>Trauma shapes personality</h3>

When asked how these issues shape their personality moving forward, Priyamvada says that there is a big problem in India since Indians believe children are always happy, and they do not experience anxiety or stress; but that is not the case.

She says, “It has been proven again and again by experiments in psychology that children as young as three or four can experience anxiety and can express that as well, and various other emotions. When they experience any such traumatic incident or any emotion that is not easy to handle on their own at such a young age, it does shape their personality in a long way.”

<h3>Loneliness among&nbsp;children</h3>

Peg Fong on the other hand explains how feeling lonely is “normal,” even amongst children, and they must be told so. &nbsp;

She says, “It's perfectly ok to talk about why they feel lonely, and what they want to do about it. Do they want alone time sometimes? Do they want to be with others and not talk or do they want to spend time with others?”

<h3>Signs your child is distressed but not saying it</h3>

Children have a hard time communicating with elders or anyone as they don’t have the right vocabulary to explain themselves. The idea of meeting children halfway completely fails when it comes to communication. There are signs that parents can take a clue from as to how their child is feeling.

Priyamvada explains the signs of a child feeling lonely but not expressing it. “If a child was very playful and suddenly has become quieter, they used to sleep well, but now, you know, they are awake at odd times during the night, the things they used to love to eat, and the friends they used to love to be with, they're not doing that. These are some very common symptoms that the child must be going through some distress.”

"They lose appetite, or they lose sleep, or they feel jittery. And that then leads to children feeling that there is somebody who is a safe person or somebody who understands what I'm going through, and it becomes easier for children to go to this adult and express what they're going through,” she adds.

<h3>How parents play a vital role in communicating</h3>

Peg Fong says, “Parents, like everyone else, are stretched thin and burdened with many things. Mental health, whether in the home, or in schools or in the workplace, are topic that should be discussed without feelings of shame. I think it helps to put it into context of how resilience and emotional intelligence and curiosity and kindness are ways to get into the topic of loneliness.”

As an Indian parent and mental health advocate, Priyamvada emphasizes on Indian parents and their parenting styles.

“Indian parents largely are dismissive because of their lack of awareness about mental health. They think every mental health condition or experience is an illness, and the taboo and stigma about mental illness is so huge that nobody would want to associate it with their child,” she said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-rujuta-diwekar-%E2%80%98will-update-in-2034%E2%80%99-if-she-has-a-man-who-supports-his-wife-enables-health-care-767669">Rujuta Diwekar ‘will update in 2034’ if she found a man who supports his wife; enables health care</a>

<h3>Neglect is the root cause</h3>

She added, “I see a lot of young parents, using phones as nannies, using TV as nannies, and having no control on what kind of content the child is consuming that might also the child might see a scary movie and might start getting nightmares.”

“Neglect is also considered to be a form of abuse,” says Priyamvada.

Before children begin to have issues, it is important that they have people to talk to, someone they can trust. Someone they can reach out to, so they don’t contain their thoughts in their mind alone. Communication is the key at any age. But the right time to begin solving things is the beginning itself. &nbsp;

If you find yourself reading an article attempting to make a curious case of emphasis on children’s mental health almost a week after Mental Health Day, it is because it’s appearing fashionably late!

If you find yourself reading an article attempting to make a curious case of emphasis on children’s mental health almost a week after Mental Health Day, it is because it’s appearing fashionably late! That is how late we are as a society at noticing a child’s state of mind whom we always assume happy. Why bother about a child’s mental health? Children of ages 12 and below spend most of their time playing, sleeping or avoiding school homework. But, when you go for a therapy session, have you ever wondered: why did the therapist ask you about your childhood? Why were you quiet, unable to explain a thing? Or worse, you didn’t want to talk about it. Chances are that your adulthood traumas that need therapy took root in your personality when you were quite little; a child who wanted to talk but had nobody to communicate with. NO SAFE SPACE. Speaking on therapy sessions, Pooja Priyamvada, who is a mental health counsellor and media educator, said, “I believe childhood shapes your entire life.” Many people have had a successful professional life, “but one incident from childhood, whether it was abandonment, whether it was physical abuse or sexual abuse; that keeps haunting them and affecting them in ways that they do not even know about. So, their personal relationships suffer.” Based in Vancouver, Canada, Host and writer of the Alone Together podcast, Peg Fong claims that the pandemic may have made the situation worse because kids spent a lot of time at home and on screen. She says, “The pandemic had a significant impact on young people, we are now seeing a generation that was born during lockdown. At a time when children are interacting with other toddlers and kids their own age in playgrounds and in daycare, instead, they were spending the time indoors and on screens.” What parents think Discussing children’s mental health between ages 1 to 12, a parent said, “Do they even understand the status of their mental health? Is there any awareness in this kind of age group? I don’t think so.” Another parent stated that if a child has issues, it starts building at home. The environment at home affects how they begin to think at an early age. In general, parents find it tough to navigate a child’s mental health status as they have very little awareness about it. Trauma shapes personality When asked how these issues shape their personality moving forward, Priyamvada says that there is a big problem in India since Indians believe children are always happy, and they do not experience anxiety or stress; but that is not the case. She says, “It has been proven again and again by experiments in psychology that children as young as three or four can experience anxiety and can express that as well, and various other emotions. When they experience any such traumatic incident or any emotion that is not easy to handle on their own at such a young age, it does shape their personality in a long way.” Loneliness among children Peg Fong on the other hand explains how feeling lonely is “normal,” even amongst children, and they must be told so. She says, “It's perfectly ok to talk about why they feel lonely, and what they want to do about it. Do they want alone time sometimes? Do they want to be with others and not talk or do they want to spend time with others?” Signs your child is distressed but not saying it Children have a hard time communicating with elders or anyone as they don’t have the right vocabulary to explain themselves. The idea of meeting children halfway completely fails when it comes to communication. There are signs that parents can take a clue from as to how their child is feeling. Priyamvada explains the signs of a child feeling lonely but not expressing it. “If a child was very playful and suddenly has become quieter, they used to sleep well, but now, you know, they are awake at odd times during the night, the things they used to love to eat, and the friends they used to love to be with, they're not doing that. These are some very common symptoms that the child must be going through some distress.” "They lose appetite, or they lose sleep, or they feel jittery. And that then leads to children feeling that there is somebody who is a safe person or somebody who understands what I'm going through, and it becomes easier for children to go to this adult and express what they're going through,” she adds. How parents play a vital role in communicating Peg Fong says, “Parents, like everyone else, are stretched thin and burdened with many things. Mental health, whether in the home, or in schools or in the workplace, are topic that should be discussed without feelings of shame. I think it helps to put it into context of how resilience and emotional intelligence and curiosity and kindness are ways to get into the topic of loneliness.” As an Indian parent and mental health advocate, Priyamvada emphasizes on Indian parents and their parenting styles. “Indian parents largely are dismissive because of their lack of awareness about mental health. They think every mental health condition or experience is an illness, and the taboo and stigma about mental illness is so huge that nobody would want to associate it with their child,” she said. Also read: Rujuta Diwekar ‘will update in 2034’ if she found a man who supports his wife; enables health care Neglect is the root cause She added, “I see a lot of young parents, using phones as nannies, using TV as nannies, and having no control on what kind of content the child is consuming that might also the child might see a scary movie and might start getting nightmares.” “Neglect is also considered to be a form of abuse,” says Priyamvada. Before children begin to have issues, it is important that they have people to talk to, someone they can trust. Someone they can reach out to, so they don’t contain their thoughts in their mind alone. Communication is the key at any age. But the right time to begin solving things is the beginning itself.

Therapy for children? Why early conversation around mental health is important

If you exercise regularly and are still not losing weight, it could be because you do not have 'skinny genes'.

According to a new study, some so-called skinny genes are responsible for how our bodies respond to exercise.

The researchers from the University of Essex and Anglia Ruskin University found that there are 14 skinny genes that influence weight loss.

"We hypothesised that eight weeks of endurance training could reduce body mass, but participants would improve at different rates, and that this could be explained, in part, by their genetic differences," wrote the researchers in the study.

Watch:&nbsp;The right reasons to exercise: Decoding health and fitness myths

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They examined 38 subjects aged 23 to 40. The volunteers were divided into an exercise group and a control group.

Their exercise regimen&nbsp;was monitored for eight weeks, during which one group completed a running programme of 20 to 30 minutes per week while the control group remained inactive.

The results made the researchers posit that genetic differences were behind the difference in the weight loss, though all followed the same training regimen.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/exercise-drug-will-deliver-the-benefits-of-working-out-minus-the-work-766367">Also read: 'Exercise drug' will deliver the benefits of working out minus the work</a>

Those with some specific gene variants lost an average of five kilogrammes as opposed to two kg weight loss for those without these variants.

The gene PPARGC1A, which is linked to energy metabolism, was present in those who lost the most weight, found the study published in the Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport.

PPARGC1A is associated with the way our cells process and manage energy.&nbsp;

DNA analysis showed that 17 specific single nucleotide polymorphisms or SNPs were linked to the differences in weight loss.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sit-stand-exercise-and-sleep-this-much-every-day-for-tip-top-health-717985">Also read: Sit, stand, exercise and sleep this much every day for tip-top health</a>

This led the researchers to suggest that people with these genetic variants are capable of better weight management through exercise.

Significantly, they also found that five skinny genes affect mental health, such as depression and intelligence.

<h2>Does it mean you can't lose weight? No. </h2>

What the researchers are suggesting is that 'one size fits all' approach will not work when trying to lose weight through fitness regimens.

Our bodies are unique, and personalised approaches are needed for each of us for seeing benefits of excercise, as genetics can affect its effectiveness. 
 
"This study highlighted some important genes associated with taking inches off the jeans, but it's important to remember that the genes will do nothing without exercise and lifestyle changes as they are all interlinked," exercise scientist Henry Chung from the University of Essex said.

"Without intervention, they won't show their true potential and then it doesn't matter what genes you have," he was quoted as saying in ScienceAlert.

(With inputs from agencies)

If you exercise regularly and are still not losing weight, it could be because you do not have 'skinny genes'. According to a new study, some so-called skinny genes are responsible for how our bodies respond to exercise.

If you exercise regularly and are still not losing weight, it could be because you do not have 'skinny genes'. According to a new study, some so-called skinny genes are responsible for how our bodies respond to exercise. The researchers from the University of Essex and Anglia Ruskin University found that there are 14 skinny genes that influence weight loss. "We hypothesised that eight weeks of endurance training could reduce body mass, but participants would improve at different rates, and that this could be explained, in part, by their genetic differences," wrote the researchers in the study. Watch: The right reasons to exercise: Decoding health and fitness myths × They examined 38 subjects aged 23 to 40. The volunteers were divided into an exercise group and a control group. Their exercise regimen was monitored for eight weeks, during which one group completed a running programme of 20 to 30 minutes per week while the control group remained inactive. The results made the researchers posit that genetic differences were behind the difference in the weight loss, though all followed the same training regimen. Also read: 'Exercise drug' will deliver the benefits of working out minus the work Those with some specific gene variants lost an average of five kilogrammes as opposed to two kg weight loss for those without these variants. The gene PPARGC1A, which is linked to energy metabolism, was present in those who lost the most weight, found the study published in the Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport. PPARGC1A is associated with the way our cells process and manage energy. DNA analysis showed that 17 specific single nucleotide polymorphisms or SNPs were linked to the differences in weight loss. Also read: Sit, stand, exercise and sleep this much every day for tip-top health This led the researchers to suggest that people with these genetic variants are capable of better weight management through exercise. Significantly, they also found that five skinny genes affect mental health, such as depression and intelligence. Does it mean you can't lose weight? No. What the researchers are suggesting is that 'one size fits all' approach will not work when trying to lose weight through fitness regimens. Our bodies are unique, and personalised approaches are needed for each of us for seeing benefits of excercise, as genetics can affect its effectiveness. "This study highlighted some important genes associated with taking inches off the jeans, but it's important to remember that the genes will do nothing without exercise and lifestyle changes as they are all interlinked," exercise scientist Henry Chung from the University of Essex said. "Without intervention, they won't show their true potential and then it doesn't matter what genes you have," he was quoted as saying in ScienceAlert. (With inputs from agencies)

Exercising but not losing weight? You may not have 'skinny genes', say scientists

Alia Bhatt&nbsp;recently disclosed that she has been diagnosed with clinical anxiety. She appeared on sister-in-law Kareena Kapoor Khan’s podcast, What Women Want, the Jigra actress spoke about her anxious moments and receiving support from her husband, Ranbir Kapoor.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{955a6a3c-3ff5-4fb0-bdff-44af0d78f031}{104}" paraid="260866974" >Diagnosed with clinical anxiety&nbsp;</h2>

On the podcast, Bhatt said, “I’m clinically diagnosed with anxiety. Every moment for me is anxious, like worst-case scenario all the time.”&nbsp;

Bhatt&nbsp;recounted the day she and her husband decided to reveal their daughter Raha’s face and let her be photographed by the paparazzi as part of her media debut. She said that she was anxious about the moment, but her husband calmed her down.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bhatt&nbsp;added, “He understood that and said, ‘Okay, now you’re going to get really anxious, so let’s talk about it.’ We discussed everything from Bandra to Juhu, and eventually, I realised this is just part of life."&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{94a93528-6112-459e-80c5-a8b8e11374db}{141}" paraid="2124364979" >Paparazzi meet&nbsp;</h2>

On the podcast, Bhatt also spoke about how the public reacted when they did not see Raha’s face for the longest time after her birth. She confessed, “I still get little uncomfortable, I'll be honest like, don't flash in eyes guys and like you know whatever and all, but I also realised there's only love for her and she's a beautiful baby.”&nbsp;

In December 2023, Bhatt revealed how she deals with anxiety in an AMA on Instagram. She wrote, “We all have certain things that might trigger our anxiety – for example, I find myself getting very worked up with any sudden change or a situation I have no control over... but it took me a long while to understand that... so prior to any of these moments, I just try and be aware of it and if it's too much, I allow myself to check out and feel the way I feel.”&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/alia-bhatt-starrer-gangubai-kathiawadi-made-joseph-gordon-levitt-want-to-learn-more-766859">Alia Bhatt starrer Gangubai Kathiawadi made Joseph Gordon-Levitt ‘want to learn more’</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{94a93528-6112-459e-80c5-a8b8e11374db}{147}" paraid="416382135" >Latest film</h2>

Bhatt’s latest film Jigra released on October 11 in Hindi and Telugu, is directed by Vasan Bala. Actors Vedang Raina, Manoj Pahwa, Rahul Ravindran, and Vivek Gomber are also an integral part of the film.&nbsp;

Alia Bhatt recently disclosed that she has been diagnosed with clinical anxiety. She appeared on sister-in-law Kareena Kapoor Khan’s podcast, What Women Want, the Jigra actress spoke about her anxious moments and receiving support from her husband, Ranbir Kapoor.

Alia Bhatt recently disclosed that she has been diagnosed with clinical anxiety. She appeared on sister-in-law Kareena Kapoor Khan’s podcast, What Women Want, the Jigra actress spoke about her anxious moments and receiving support from her husband, Ranbir Kapoor. Diagnosed with clinical anxiety On the podcast, Bhatt said, “I’m clinically diagnosed with anxiety. Every moment for me is anxious, like worst-case scenario all the time.” Bhatt recounted the day she and her husband decided to reveal their daughter Raha’s face and let her be photographed by the paparazzi as part of her media debut. She said that she was anxious about the moment, but her husband calmed her down. Bhatt added, “He understood that and said, ‘Okay, now you’re going to get really anxious, so let’s talk about it.’ We discussed everything from Bandra to Juhu, and eventually, I realised this is just part of life." Paparazzi meet On the podcast, Bhatt also spoke about how the public reacted when they did not see Raha’s face for the longest time after her birth. She confessed, “I still get little uncomfortable, I'll be honest like, don't flash in eyes guys and like you know whatever and all, but I also realised there's only love for her and she's a beautiful baby.” In December 2023, Bhatt revealed how she deals with anxiety in an AMA on Instagram. She wrote, “We all have certain things that might trigger our anxiety – for example, I find myself getting very worked up with any sudden change or a situation I have no control over... but it took me a long while to understand that... so prior to any of these moments, I just try and be aware of it and if it's too much, I allow myself to check out and feel the way I feel.” Also read: Alia Bhatt starrer Gangubai Kathiawadi made Joseph Gordon-Levitt ‘want to learn more’ Latest film Bhatt’s latest film Jigra released on October 11 in Hindi and Telugu, is directed by Vasan Bala. Actors Vedang Raina, Manoj Pahwa, Rahul Ravindran, and Vivek Gomber are also an integral part of the film.

‘Every moment for me is anxious’: Alia Bhatt reveals how Ranbir Kapoor calms her down

World Mental Health Day: Movies about mental health that you should watch

As we observe World Mental Health Day on October 10, it serves as a vital reminder of the importance of mental well-being, especially in the workplace. In today’s fast-paced and demanding environment, mental health is just as critical as physical health. A mentally healthy workforce is essential for productivity, job satisfaction and overall organisational success.

Management of Mental Health at Work

Mental health is increasingly recognised as a key factor in workplace well-being. Stress, anxiety and burnout affect employees across industries, impacting not only individual health but also team performance and overall success. Creating spaces that support mental well-being, where employees feel valued and safe, is essential for fostering a productive and engaged workforce.

Strategies for Creating a Mentally Supportive Workplace

●&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Foster Open Dialogue on Mental Health

The first step to a supportive workplace is reducing the stigma around mental health. Employees should feel comfortable discussing their mental health without fear of judgement. Open conversations, awareness programs and leadership that supports mental health initiatives are crucial for normalising the topic.

When mental health is openly discussed, employees are more likely to seek help when needed.

●&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Promote a Healthy Work-Life Balance

Employees often feel pressured to be constantly available, which can lead to burnout. Promoting a healthy work-life balance is essential for maintaining mental well-being. Flexible work hours, the ability to work from home and reasonable time-off policies help employees manage stress and prevent burnout.

Setting realistic workloads and expectations is also vital in supporting long-term mental health.

●&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Offer Access to Mental Health Resources

Providing employees with access to mental health resources—whether through Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), counselling services, or wellness apps—ensures they have the support they need. Digital health solutions can offer employees immediate help, even when working remotely.

Investing in these resources signals a commitment to employees’ well-being and ensures they can easily access support when needed.

●&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Implement an Open Door Policy

An Open Door Policy is one of the most effective strategies for promoting mental well-being. When employees feel comfortable approaching leadership, it fosters a culture of transparency, trust and support. An accessible leadership team helps bridge the gap between employees and management, ensuring that issues, whether work-related or personal, can be addressed quickly and empathetically.

●&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Provide Stress Management and Wellness Sessions

Regular stress management and wellness sessions, led by health experts, offer employees tools to manage stress, build resilience and prioritise their health. These sessions, whether online or in-person, empower employees to take actionable steps toward better mental health and well-being.

Encouraging employees to prioritise their health not only improves individual well-being but also boosts morale and productivity across the organisation.

●&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Regular Employee Feedback

Listening to employees’ concerns is vital for identifying potential stressors before they escalate. Surveys, check-ins and feedback mechanisms allow employees to voice their thoughts, leading to a greater sense of support and connection to the workplace. 
When employees feel heard, it helps reduce stress and strengthens their engagement with the organisation.

Technology in Mental Health Support

Technology is playing an increasing role in mental health support at work. By integrating digital solutions into workplace well-being strategies, organisations can ensure employees receive the support they need—whether in the office, working remotely, or on the go. Tools like wellness apps, digital mental health assessments and online counselling services make mental health resources more accessible.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-what-is-keeping-you-awake-anxiety-insomnia-or-both-764955">What is keeping you awake: anxiety, insomnia or both?</a>

Other regular activities which help in Mental Health well being

Music can play a significant role in reducing stress at work, as it has the power to influence mood, energy levels, and even cognitive functions. Not all employees may benefit from or enjoy the same type of music. It’s essential to ensure that music doesn’t become a distraction or annoyance.

Yoga and stretching sessions during work are excellent strategies to reduce stress, improve physical and mental well-being and boost overall productivity. Incorporate short, 5-10 minutes yoga/stretching sessions into the workday during regular breaks, such as mid-morning or afternoon.

Team building activities are a great way to reduce work stress by fostering camaraderie, improving communication and promoting collaboration. These activities help employees step away from the pressures of work, allowing them to relax, bond and recharge in a fun and engaging way

Other Activities for employees like organising marathons, lunch provided by the organisation, cutting birthday cake etc also go a long way in maintaining mental health.

Way Forward

As we observe World Mental Health Day, it’s crucial to remember that mental health is a collective responsibility. Creating a supportive work environment is about more than reducing stress; it’s about empowering employees to thrive both personally and professionally.

By fostering open communication, promoting a healthy work-life balance and leveraging technology, organisations can create an environment where employees don’t just survive but thrive. Investing in mental health leads to a more engaged, productive and satisfied workforce. 
&nbsp;

As we observe World Mental Health Day on October 10, it serves as a vital reminder of the importance of mental well-being, especially in the workplace. In today’s fast-paced and demanding environment, mental health is just as critical as physical health.

As we observe World Mental Health Day on October 10, it serves as a vital reminder of the importance of mental well-being, especially in the workplace. In today’s fast-paced and demanding environment, mental health is just as critical as physical health. A mentally healthy workforce is essential for productivity, job satisfaction and overall organisational success. Management of Mental Health at Work Mental health is increasingly recognised as a key factor in workplace well-being. Stress, anxiety and burnout affect employees across industries, impacting not only individual health but also team performance and overall success. Creating spaces that support mental well-being, where employees feel valued and safe, is essential for fostering a productive and engaged workforce. Strategies for Creating a Mentally Supportive Workplace ● Foster Open Dialogue on Mental Health The first step to a supportive workplace is reducing the stigma around mental health. Employees should feel comfortable discussing their mental health without fear of judgement. Open conversations, awareness programs and leadership that supports mental health initiatives are crucial for normalising the topic. When mental health is openly discussed, employees are more likely to seek help when needed. ● Promote a Healthy Work-Life Balance Employees often feel pressured to be constantly available, which can lead to burnout. Promoting a healthy work-life balance is essential for maintaining mental well-being. Flexible work hours, the ability to work from home and reasonable time-off policies help employees manage stress and prevent burnout. Setting realistic workloads and expectations is also vital in supporting long-term mental health. ● Offer Access to Mental Health Resources Providing employees with access to mental health resources—whether through Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), counselling services, or wellness apps—ensures they have the support they need. Digital health solutions can offer employees immediate help, even when working remotely. Investing in these resources signals a commitment to employees’ well-being and ensures they can easily access support when needed. ● Implement an Open Door Policy An Open Door Policy is one of the most effective strategies for promoting mental well-being. When employees feel comfortable approaching leadership, it fosters a culture of transparency, trust and support. An accessible leadership team helps bridge the gap between employees and management, ensuring that issues, whether work-related or personal, can be addressed quickly and empathetically. ● Provide Stress Management and Wellness Sessions Regular stress management and wellness sessions, led by health experts, offer employees tools to manage stress, build resilience and prioritise their health. These sessions, whether online or in-person, empower employees to take actionable steps toward better mental health and well-being. Encouraging employees to prioritise their health not only improves individual well-being but also boosts morale and productivity across the organisation. ● Regular Employee Feedback Listening to employees’ concerns is vital for identifying potential stressors before they escalate. Surveys, check-ins and feedback mechanisms allow employees to voice their thoughts, leading to a greater sense of support and connection to the workplace. When employees feel heard, it helps reduce stress and strengthens their engagement with the organisation. Technology in Mental Health Support Technology is playing an increasing role in mental health support at work. By integrating digital solutions into workplace well-being strategies, organisations can ensure employees receive the support they need—whether in the office, working remotely, or on the go. Tools like wellness apps, digital mental health assessments and online counselling services make mental health resources more accessible. Also read: What is keeping you awake: anxiety, insomnia or both? Other regular activities which help in Mental Health well being Music can play a significant role in reducing stress at work, as it has the power to influence mood, energy levels, and even cognitive functions. Not all employees may benefit from or enjoy the same type of music. It’s essential to ensure that music doesn’t become a distraction or annoyance. Yoga and stretching sessions during work are excellent strategies to reduce stress, improve physical and mental well-being and boost overall productivity. Incorporate short, 5-10 minutes yoga/stretching sessions into the workday during regular breaks, such as mid-morning or afternoon. Team building activities are a great way to reduce work stress by fostering camaraderie, improving communication and promoting collaboration. These activities help employees step away from the pressures of work, allowing them to relax, bond and recharge in a fun and engaging way Other Activities for employees like organising marathons, lunch provided by the organisation, cutting birthday cake etc also go a long way in maintaining mental health. Way Forward As we observe World Mental Health Day, it’s crucial to remember that mental health is a collective responsibility. Creating a supportive work environment is about more than reducing stress; it’s about empowering employees to thrive both personally and professionally. By fostering open communication, promoting a healthy work-life balance and leveraging technology, organisations can create an environment where employees don’t just survive but thrive. Investing in mental health leads to a more engaged, productive and satisfied workforce.

Mental Health in the Workplace: Strategies for Creating Supportive Environments

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