<p>In today's fast-paced world, prioritising mental health is no longer a luxury but a necessity. While the discourse on mental health is slowly gaining the attention it deserves, professional spheres of workplaces can often be breeding grounds for stress, anxiety, and burnout. According to our recently conducted pan-India workplace wellness survey, “The Silent Struggle”, we found that 48% of corporate employees across India are at the risk of poor mental health, 56% of which are women.</p>

<p>But there is light at the end of the tunnel - steps can be, and are being taken to create a culture of well-being within organisations. Leaders in workplaces are increasingly taking the reins in championing mental health initiatives. Their unique perspectives and empathetic leadership styles are proving instrumental in fostering supportive work environments. Some key strategies that leaders implement to prioritise mental well-being in their organisations, include providing the necessary training and resources, creating a safe space to have conversations around such subjects, and treating those who are going through something difficult, with empathy and care. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Open the dialogue: Conversations and resources </strong></p>

<p>A crucial first step is to break the silence surrounding mental health. It involves acknowledging that the challenges faced by employees go beyond the professional realm. By encouraging open conversations about mental well-being, leaders can normalise seeking help and reduce the stigma often associated with mental health challenges in the workplace.</p>

<p>To address these challenges effectively, providing mental health resources becomes paramount. It's about creating a support system that empowers employees to navigate the complexities of their mental well-being. Some of the ways in which this can be achieved by organising workshops, inviting mental health professionals to speak at company events, and creating safe spaces for employees to share their experiences. Whether through counselling services, workshops, or educational materials, access to resources plays a crucial role in shaping a workplace that values and prioritises mental health. Additionally, providing easily accessible mental health resources, such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and online support platforms, demonstrates a genuine commitment to employee well-being. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Building empathy into operations </strong></p>

<p>Empathy is a cornerstone of creating operational strategies that truly support mental well-being. It goes beyond policies and procedures; it's about understanding and acknowledging the human experience. Leaders who understand the&nbsp;challenges faced by their employees are better equipped to create a supportive work environment. Integrating empathy into operational strategies involves recognising that employees have lives outside of work, which helps ensure that the workplace is not just a space for professional growth but a haven that recognises and supports employees' mental health.</p>

<p>This might involve implementing policies that accommodate the diverse needs of employees, especially during critical life stages, like flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options or compressed workweeks. It's also important to acknowledge and accommodate the needs of employees during critical life stages, such as parenthood or caring for elderly family members. By demonstrating flexibility and understanding, leaders can foster a sense of trust and loyalty among their teams. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>The power of open communication </strong></p>

<p>Encouraging open and honest communication about mental health within organisations is essential. Leaders can set the tone by openly discussing their own experiences or challenges with mental well-being. This vulnerability can inspire employees to feel comfortable seeking help when needed, and in turn, contribute to fostering a culture that views mental health discussions as a sign of strength, not weakness.</p>

<p>Furthermore, creating anonymous feedback channels allows employees to voice their concerns or suggestions regarding mental health support systems within the organisation. By actively listening to employee feedback, leaders can tailor mental health initiatives to better meet the specific needs of their workforce. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Championing mental health in the workplace is not just the right thing to do, it's also good for business. A collective responsibility, this necessary action can cultivate a culture of well-being, which leads to organisations supporting a happier and more efficient&nbsp;workforce. Leaders play a crucial role by showing the commitment to creating an environment that prioritises the well-being of every individual. By fostering open conversations, integrating empathy into operational strategies, and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health, they can pave the way for a healthier, more compassionate workplace for all.</p>


In today's fast-paced world, prioritising mental health is no longer a luxury but a necessity. While the discourse on mental health is slowly gaining the attention it deserves, professional spheres of workplaces can often be breeding grounds for stress, anxiety, and burnout.

In today's fast-paced world, prioritising mental health is no longer a luxury but a necessity. While the discourse on mental health is slowly gaining the attention it deserves, professional spheres of workplaces can often be breeding grounds for stress, anxiety, and burnout. According to our recently conducted pan-India workplace wellness survey, “The Silent Struggle”, we found that 48% of corporate employees across India are at the risk of poor mental health, 56% of which are women. But there is light at the end of the tunnel - steps can be, and are being taken to create a culture of well-being within organisations. Leaders in workplaces are increasingly taking the reins in championing mental health initiatives. Their unique perspectives and empathetic leadership styles are proving instrumental in fostering supportive work environments. Some key strategies that leaders implement to prioritise mental well-being in their organisations, include providing the necessary training and resources, creating a safe space to have conversations around such subjects, and treating those who are going through something difficult, with empathy and care. Open the dialogue: Conversations and resources A crucial first step is to break the silence surrounding mental health. It involves acknowledging that the challenges faced by employees go beyond the professional realm. By encouraging open conversations about mental well-being, leaders can normalise seeking help and reduce the stigma often associated with mental health challenges in the workplace. To address these challenges effectively, providing mental health resources becomes paramount. It's about creating a support system that empowers employees to navigate the complexities of their mental well-being. Some of the ways in which this can be achieved by organising workshops, inviting mental health professionals to speak at company events, and creating safe spaces for employees to share their experiences. Whether through counselling services, workshops, or educational materials, access to resources plays a crucial role in shaping a workplace that values and prioritises mental health. Additionally, providing easily accessible mental health resources, such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and online support platforms, demonstrates a genuine commitment to employee well-being. Building empathy into operations Empathy is a cornerstone of creating operational strategies that truly support mental well-being. It goes beyond policies and procedures; it's about understanding and acknowledging the human experience. Leaders who understand the challenges faced by their employees are better equipped to create a supportive work environment. Integrating empathy into operational strategies involves recognising that employees have lives outside of work, which helps ensure that the workplace is not just a space for professional growth but a haven that recognises and supports employees' mental health. This might involve implementing policies that accommodate the diverse needs of employees, especially during critical life stages, like flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options or compressed workweeks. It's also important to acknowledge and accommodate the needs of employees during critical life stages, such as parenthood or caring for elderly family members. By demonstrating flexibility and understanding, leaders can foster a sense of trust and loyalty among their teams. The power of open communication Encouraging open and honest communication about mental health within organisations is essential. Leaders can set the tone by openly discussing their own experiences or challenges with mental well-being. This vulnerability can inspire employees to feel comfortable seeking help when needed, and in turn, contribute to fostering a culture that views mental health discussions as a sign of strength, not weakness. Furthermore, creating anonymous feedback channels allows employees to voice their concerns or suggestions regarding mental health support systems within the organisation. By actively listening to employee feedback, leaders can tailor mental health initiatives to better meet the specific needs of their workforce. Championing mental health in the workplace is not just the right thing to do, it's also good for business. A collective responsibility, this necessary action can cultivate a culture of well-being, which leads to organisations supporting a happier and more efficient workforce. Leaders play a crucial role by showing the commitment to creating an environment that prioritises the well-being of every individual. By fostering open conversations, integrating empathy into operational strategies, and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health, they can pave the way for a healthier, more compassionate workplace for all.

Expert voice | Championing mental health - A woman leader's journey in nurturing wellness at the workplace

<p dir="ltr">It was the 2021 Olympics in Tokyo when Tom Daley, UK’s ace diver, not only won his country a gold medal but also charmed the audience with his nimble public display of crocheting that was snapped up by shutterbugs.</p>

<p>Daley became an unlikely champion of crocheting,&nbsp;which uses a hook - croc in French means hook - to create textiles from strands of yarn, thread, or other fabric material.<br />
<br />
Wherever you caught sight of Daley—whether lounging on the benches, poolside, or watching other people’s games, you could see him with his crochet needles, working with great dexterity.&nbsp;He even made&nbsp;a <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CR0ciqMIOIJ/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;ig_rid=4f68927a-831b-4203-80fb-5af840875b6a">tiny sleeve for his gold medal</a>, earned with partner Matty Lee in the men’s 10-metre synchronised dive.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Daley inadvertently forced the world to sit up and take notice of an art and craft once associated with&nbsp;elderly women, challenging an entire gamut of gender stereotypes along the way.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr"><img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bf7dc40d-c95b-4133-9a2b-0b0bc9f7b708" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/The%20battle%20for%20Kyiv%20-%202024-03-08T001259.450.jpg" /></p>

<p dir="ltr"><em><strong>British diver, Tom Daley crocheting on the stands during Tokyo Olympics 2021</strong></em></p>

<p dir="ltr">Hop skip to 2024 in India: a set of young entrepreneurs are launching small-scale crochet businesses and harnessing the power of social media to build their brand and customer base.</p>

<p>For 24-year-old Kunal Chourasia, a Mumbai-based full-time crocheter, crocheting wasn’t always a readily available career choice. Starting off as an IT professional in a multinational firm and later a marketing firm, Chourasia&nbsp;found his crochet calling only during the Covid pandemic&nbsp;lockdown.</p>

<p>“I started experimenting with designs during the lockdown phase. I used to create different shapes, different patterns, and so on. There was a point where I just thought of starting something of my own, and that is when I launched my Instagram page to put up my creations. And eventually, I started getting orders once the lockdown eased off,” he said.</p>

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<p>Today, he deftly runs his own business off Instagram, which his parents were once completely against.</p>

<p>“The day I left my full-time marketing job, my parents asked me to leave the house, which I did. But we reconciled after 15 days, and since then there has been no looking back.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Back in January 2023, he would get around 20-30 orders every month, and now the orders have gone up to over 60-100 a month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The income now is roughly five-six times more than my IT job.”</p>

<p>The experience resonates with 28-year-old Aishwarya Bysani from Bengaluru, who goes by the moniker <a href="https://www.instagram.com/curlycrochet95?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y%3D">Curly Crochet</a> on Instagram.</p>

<p>She also picked up crocheting during the lockdown and has since transitioned to becoming a full-time crocheter on Instagram, primarily focusing on wearable items such as sweaters and caps.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Moving beyond the conventional recommendations of journaling and meditation, therapist Ketaki&nbsp;Mhatre&nbsp;suggests that taking up activities like knitting and crocheting can significantly benefit our mental health.</p>

<p dir="ltr">“The repetitive motions, the focus involved, and the fact that you are physically and emotionally engaged with a tool is a great mental exercise,” she said.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Mhatre&nbsp;believes that when people experience anxiety or nervousness, repetitive actions or 'actions that loop in a way' help the nervous system find a rhythm to calm down.</p>

<p>While the majority of evidence supporting this claim is based on personal accounts, a study carried out by the&nbsp;<a data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0" href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32245337/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">University of Wollongong</a>&nbsp;found that participants reported feeling happier, more in control, and had a greater sense of usefulness after crocheting.</p>

<p>Crocheting turned into a refuge for Prabhal Mehta, a 29-year-old aspiring surgeon from Hyderabad, after his heartbreak. At first, he saw it as a way to take a break, but soon it became his safe space, helping him focus better on his studies.</p>

<p>Mehta said, "When I got into crocheting, it felt like I was stepping into a peaceful zone, just following the flow of my hands."</p>

<p>Encouraged by his mother, who's quite skilled at crocheting herself, Mehta grabbed a yarn ball and a crochet needle as a means to heal and discover himself.</p>

<p>"In this process I realised crocheting wasn't just about keeping my hands busy; it was also about finding beauty in the details, which I found really aligned with the precision needed in surgery," he said.</p>

<p>From every perspective, the traditional stereotype of handcrafting, typically tied to an elderly woman bent over her needles and yarn, has undergone a remarkable shift. Now, it's become a source of both financial empowerment and mental nourishment for today's young adults.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


It was the 2021 Olympics in Tokyo when Tom Daley, UK’s ace diver, not only won his country a gold medal but also charmed the audience with his nimble public display of crocheting that was snapped up by shutterbugs.

It was the 2021 Olympics in Tokyo when Tom Daley, UK’s ace diver, not only won his country a gold medal but also charmed the audience with his nimble public display of crocheting that was snapped up by shutterbugs. Daley became an unlikely champion of crocheting, which uses a hook - croc in French means hook - to create textiles from strands of yarn, thread, or other fabric material. Wherever you caught sight of Daley—whether lounging on the benches, poolside, or watching other people’s games, you could see him with his crochet needles, working with great dexterity. He even made a tiny sleeve for his gold medal, earned with partner Matty Lee in the men’s 10-metre synchronised dive. Daley inadvertently forced the world to sit up and take notice of an art and craft once associated with elderly women, challenging an entire gamut of gender stereotypes along the way. British diver, Tom Daley crocheting on the stands during Tokyo Olympics 2021 Hop skip to 2024 in India: a set of young entrepreneurs are launching small-scale crochet businesses and harnessing the power of social media to build their brand and customer base. For 24-year-old Kunal Chourasia, a Mumbai-based full-time crocheter, crocheting wasn’t always a readily available career choice. Starting off as an IT professional in a multinational firm and later a marketing firm, Chourasia found his crochet calling only during the Covid pandemic lockdown. “I started experimenting with designs during the lockdown phase. I used to create different shapes, different patterns, and so on. There was a point where I just thought of starting something of my own, and that is when I launched my Instagram page to put up my creations. And eventually, I started getting orders once the lockdown eased off,” he said. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Crochet by Kunal (@crochet_by_kunal) × Today, he deftly runs his own business off Instagram, which his parents were once completely against. “The day I left my full-time marketing job, my parents asked me to leave the house, which I did. But we reconciled after 15 days, and since then there has been no looking back.” Back in January 2023, he would get around 20-30 orders every month, and now the orders have gone up to over 60-100 a month. “The income now is roughly five-six times more than my IT job.” The experience resonates with 28-year-old Aishwarya Bysani from Bengaluru, who goes by the moniker Curly Crochet on Instagram. She also picked up crocheting during the lockdown and has since transitioned to becoming a full-time crocheter on Instagram, primarily focusing on wearable items such as sweaters and caps. Moving beyond the conventional recommendations of journaling and meditation, therapist Ketaki Mhatre suggests that taking up activities like knitting and crocheting can significantly benefit our mental health. “The repetitive motions, the focus involved, and the fact that you are physically and emotionally engaged with a tool is a great mental exercise,” she said. Mhatre believes that when people experience anxiety or nervousness, repetitive actions or 'actions that loop in a way' help the nervous system find a rhythm to calm down. While the majority of evidence supporting this claim is based on personal accounts, a study carried out by the University of Wollongong found that participants reported feeling happier, more in control, and had a greater sense of usefulness after crocheting. Crocheting turned into a refuge for Prabhal Mehta, a 29-year-old aspiring surgeon from Hyderabad, after his heartbreak. At first, he saw it as a way to take a break, but soon it became his safe space, helping him focus better on his studies. Mehta said, "When I got into crocheting, it felt like I was stepping into a peaceful zone, just following the flow of my hands." Encouraged by his mother, who's quite skilled at crocheting herself, Mehta grabbed a yarn ball and a crochet needle as a means to heal and discover himself. "In this process I realised crocheting wasn't just about keeping my hands busy; it was also about finding beauty in the details, which I found really aligned with the precision needed in surgery," he said. From every perspective, the traditional stereotype of handcrafting, typically tied to an elderly woman bent over her needles and yarn, has undergone a remarkable shift. Now, it's become a source of both financial empowerment and mental nourishment for today's young adults.

Crocheting is helping young adults grow financially and emotionally, one stitch at a time

<p>Navigating family issues while managing your mental health can be daunting. These challenges can lead to feelings of stress, anxiety, and frustration, impacting your overall well-being. However, with the right strategies, you can effectively cope with these difficulties and maintain a healthy balance.</p>

<ol>
	<li><strong>Effective Communication: </strong>Open and honest communication is crucial for resolving family issues. Express your thoughts calmly and listen actively to others. Establishing clear communication channels can help address misunderstandings and conflicts more effectively.</li>
	<li><strong>Establish Boundaries: </strong>Setting boundaries is essential for protecting your mental health. Clearly communicate your needs and limits to family members, and assertively enforce them. Boundaries help maintain healthy relationships and prevent emotional burnout.</li>
	<li><strong>Seek Support: </strong>Lean on supportive friends, family members, or a therapist for guidance and emotional support. Talking to someone outside the situation can provide perspective and validation, helping you develop coping strategies.</li>
	<li><strong>Prioritise Self-Care: </strong>Prioritise self-care&nbsp;by engaging in activities that promote mental well-being, such as exercise, meditation, hobbies, or spending time in nature. Regular self-care helps recharge and cope with stress.</li>
	<li><strong>Set Realistic Expectations: </strong>Acknowledge that family dynamics may not always be perfect. It's okay to prioritise your well-being over trying to please everyone else. Set achievable expectations for yourself and your relationships, and let go of unattainable standards.</li>
	<li><strong>Seek Professional Help:</strong> If your mental health is deteriorating, seek help from a therapist or counsellor. They can provide personalised support and coping strategies to manage mental health challenges effectively.</li>
	<li><strong>Manage Stress: </strong>Learn and practice stress management techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, or progressive muscle relaxation to reduce stress levels and promote relaxation.</li>
	<li><strong>Focus on What You Can Control: </strong>Instead of fixating on things beyond your control, focus on what you can change. Identify small steps to improve your situation or cope with challenges, and take action accordingly.</li>
	<li><strong>Set Realistic Goals: </strong>Break down overwhelming tasks into smaller, achievable goals. Celebrate your progress and be kind to yourself if setbacks occur.</li>
	<li><strong>Avoid Triggers: </strong>Identify triggers that worsen your mental health, such as certain family members or situations, and limit your exposure to them. Prioritise your well-being above all else.</li>
	<li><strong>Practice Gratitude:</strong> Cultivate gratitude by focusing on the positive aspects of your life and relationships. Regularly acknowledge and appreciate the good things, no matter how small, to improve your mood and outlook.</li>
</ol>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-ahead-of-world-birth-defects-day-know-8-most-common-birth-defects-695846">Ahead of World Birth Defects Day, know 8 most common birth defects</a></strong></p>

<p>If your mental health deteriorates, seek professional help promptly. Therapists can offer personalised support and coping strategies. By implementing these strategies and prioritising your well-being, you can effectively manage family issues and maintain your mental health.</p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The content provided on this website should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, please contact your healthcare provider immediately. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on a website.</em></strong></p>


Navigating family issues while managing your mental health can be daunting. These challenges can lead to feelings of stress, anxiety, and frustration, impacting your overall well-being.

Navigating family issues while managing your mental health can be daunting. These challenges can lead to feelings of stress, anxiety, and frustration, impacting your overall well-being. However, with the right strategies, you can effectively cope with these difficulties and maintain a healthy balance. Effective Communication: Open and honest communication is crucial for resolving family issues. Express your thoughts calmly and listen actively to others. Establishing clear communication channels can help address misunderstandings and conflicts more effectively. Establish Boundaries: Setting boundaries is essential for protecting your mental health. Clearly communicate your needs and limits to family members, and assertively enforce them. Boundaries help maintain healthy relationships and prevent emotional burnout. Seek Support: Lean on supportive friends, family members, or a therapist for guidance and emotional support. Talking to someone outside the situation can provide perspective and validation, helping you develop coping strategies. Prioritise Self-Care: Prioritise self-care by engaging in activities that promote mental well-being, such as exercise, meditation, hobbies, or spending time in nature. Regular self-care helps recharge and cope with stress. Set Realistic Expectations: Acknowledge that family dynamics may not always be perfect. It's okay to prioritise your well-being over trying to please everyone else. Set achievable expectations for yourself and your relationships, and let go of unattainable standards. Seek Professional Help: If your mental health is deteriorating, seek help from a therapist or counsellor. They can provide personalised support and coping strategies to manage mental health challenges effectively. Manage Stress: Learn and practice stress management techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, or progressive muscle relaxation to reduce stress levels and promote relaxation. Focus on What You Can Control: Instead of fixating on things beyond your control, focus on what you can change. Identify small steps to improve your situation or cope with challenges, and take action accordingly. Set Realistic Goals: Break down overwhelming tasks into smaller, achievable goals. Celebrate your progress and be kind to yourself if setbacks occur. Avoid Triggers: Identify triggers that worsen your mental health, such as certain family members or situations, and limit your exposure to them. Prioritise your well-being above all else. Practice Gratitude: Cultivate gratitude by focusing on the positive aspects of your life and relationships. Regularly acknowledge and appreciate the good things, no matter how small, to improve your mood and outlook. Also read: Ahead of World Birth Defects Day, know 8 most common birth defects If your mental health deteriorates, seek professional help promptly. Therapists can offer personalised support and coping strategies. By implementing these strategies and prioritising your well-being, you can effectively manage family issues and maintain your mental health. Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The content provided on this website should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, please contact your healthcare provider immediately. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on a website.

Is your relationship with your family affecting your mental health? Here's what you should do

<p>Are you somebody who finds it difficult to figure out the right words at the right time? Sometimes you hear a song and simultaneously find an article about it in the morning newspaper. You try to find a word for this serendipitous moment but fail to, leaving you wondering if something is wrong with your brain.</p>

<p>It is a frustrating moment and might even lead you to worry about&nbsp;something as bad as dementia in the worst-case scenario. Well, we have news that will calm down your fears. Scientists say that not&nbsp;being able to find the right words at the right time is not exactly an accurate indicator of brain health in older adults.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A new study has claimed that the speed of speech is a more accurate indicator of brain health in older adults rather than limited vocabulary or difficulty in finding words.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-exercise-as-medicine-for-the-brain-enhancing-cognition-and-mental-health-618400">Exercise is medicine for brain; enhances memory and cognition, boosts mental health</a></strong></p>

<p>The research based on a database of 125 health volunteers aged 18 to 90 used Artificial Intelligence software to analyse language performance. The researchers focused on the speech rate and word-finding pauses.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The researchers found that word-finding abilities declined with age. However, they were not linked with cognitive decline. But slower talking speed was linked with weaker functions. The speech rate emerged as a crucial marker for detecting cognitive changes.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>The study, conducted by Baycrest and the University of Toronto, is reportedly one of the first studies to simultaneously analyse both differences in natural speech and brain health among healthy adults.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: How COVID-19 compromises brain function</strong></p>

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<p>"Our results indicate that changes in general talking speed may reflect changes in the brain," Dr Jed Meltzer, Baycrest’s Canada Research Chair in Interventional Cognitive Neuroscience and the lead author on this study, said in an official statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This suggests that talking speed should be tested as part of standard cognitive assessments to help clinicians detect cognitive decline faster and help older adults support their brain health as they age."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Are you somebody who finds it difficult to figure out the right words at the right time? Sometimes you hear a song and simultaneously find an article about it in the morning newspaper.

Are you somebody who finds it difficult to figure out the right words at the right time? Sometimes you hear a song and simultaneously find an article about it in the morning newspaper. You try to find a word for this serendipitous moment but fail to, leaving you wondering if something is wrong with your brain. It is a frustrating moment and might even lead you to worry about something as bad as dementia in the worst-case scenario. Well, we have news that will calm down your fears. Scientists say that not being able to find the right words at the right time is not exactly an accurate indicator of brain health in older adults. A new study has claimed that the speed of speech is a more accurate indicator of brain health in older adults rather than limited vocabulary or difficulty in finding words. Also read | Exercise is medicine for brain; enhances memory and cognition, boosts mental health The research based on a database of 125 health volunteers aged 18 to 90 used Artificial Intelligence software to analyse language performance. The researchers focused on the speech rate and word-finding pauses. The researchers found that word-finding abilities declined with age. However, they were not linked with cognitive decline. But slower talking speed was linked with weaker functions. The speech rate emerged as a crucial marker for detecting cognitive changes. What does it mean? The study, conducted by Baycrest and the University of Toronto, is reportedly one of the first studies to simultaneously analyse both differences in natural speech and brain health among healthy adults. Also watch | Gravitas: How COVID-19 compromises brain function × "Our results indicate that changes in general talking speed may reflect changes in the brain," Dr Jed Meltzer, Baycrest’s Canada Research Chair in Interventional Cognitive Neuroscience and the lead author on this study, said in an official statement. "This suggests that talking speed should be tested as part of standard cognitive assessments to help clinicians detect cognitive decline faster and help older adults support their brain health as they age." (With inputs from agencies)

Indicator of ageing brain? Slow speech, yes! The struggle to find the right words, no!

Can 'deep brain stimulation' help deal with depression? It is being tested as a treatment for people with a severe form of depression. The treatment involves implanting electrodes in the brain. It is being compared to a pacemaker for the brain. Molly Gambhir telling you more.

Gravitas | Do we finally have a cure for depression?

Cotton candy has come under fire for containing a cancer-causing element. The sweet treat is made using the Rhodamine B dye which is a classified carcinogen in some parts of the world.

Gravitas | Can cotton candy cause cancer?

<p>Researchers suggest that traits commonly associated with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), like distractibility and impulsivity, could have actually acted as an evolutionary advantage for our ancestors. These traits, as per research published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, might have helped them improve their foraging tactics and seeking out new food sources.</p>

<h2><strong>ADHD and negative perceptions</strong></h2>

<p>Despite the negative perception of these traits, researchers believe they could have had evolutionary benefits.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-grow-pair-of-laboratory-testicles-with-hope-of-easing-male-infertility-692250">Scientists grow pair of 'laboratory testicles' that could help treat male infertility</a></strong></p>

<p>Dr&nbsp;David Barack, from the University of Pennsylvania, the first author of the research explains that if these traits were truly negative, "then you would think that over evolutionary time, they would be selected against".&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the prevalence of ADHD suggests otherwise.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Our findings are an initial data point, suggestive of advantages in certain choice contexts," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>How can ADHD traits be beneficial?</strong></h2>

<p>Analysing data from an online foraging game involving 457 adults, researchers found that participants with higher ADHD-like symptoms scores were more likely to be better at foraging.</p>

<p>They observed that those with ADHD-like traits were likely to abandon current foraging patches in favour of exploring new ones, ultimately gaining more points in the game.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-reveals-plant-based-diet-reduces-sleep-apnoea-risk-by-one-fifth-692324">Study reveals plant-based diet reduces sleep apnoea risk by one-fifth</a></strong></p>

<p>While the study has limitations, such as relying on self-reported symptoms, it aligns with previous research suggesting a link between ADHD and nomadic lifestyles. However, as per Barack, more research is needed, including experiments with diagnosed ADHD individuals in real-world foraging tasks.</p>

<p>Professor Michael J Reiss from University College London, who was not involved in the study, notes that while ADHD can have serious negative consequences, it may also be advantageous in situations requiring rapid decision-making and physical activity, as seen in our evolutionary past. He emphasised that while "ADHD can be a serious problem but it’s a problem in large measure because of today’s environments."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Researchers suggest that traits commonly associated with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), like distractibility and impulsivity, could have actually acted as an evolutionary advantage for our ancestors.

Researchers suggest that traits commonly associated with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), like distractibility and impulsivity, could have actually acted as an evolutionary advantage for our ancestors. These traits, as per research published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, might have helped them improve their foraging tactics and seeking out new food sources. ADHD and negative perceptions Despite the negative perception of these traits, researchers believe they could have had evolutionary benefits. Also read | Scientists grow pair of 'laboratory testicles' that could help treat male infertility Dr David Barack, from the University of Pennsylvania, the first author of the research explains that if these traits were truly negative, "then you would think that over evolutionary time, they would be selected against". However, the prevalence of ADHD suggests otherwise. "Our findings are an initial data point, suggestive of advantages in certain choice contexts," he added. How can ADHD traits be beneficial? Analysing data from an online foraging game involving 457 adults, researchers found that participants with higher ADHD-like symptoms scores were more likely to be better at foraging. They observed that those with ADHD-like traits were likely to abandon current foraging patches in favour of exploring new ones, ultimately gaining more points in the game. Also read | Study reveals plant-based diet reduces sleep apnoea risk by one-fifth While the study has limitations, such as relying on self-reported symptoms, it aligns with previous research suggesting a link between ADHD and nomadic lifestyles. However, as per Barack, more research is needed, including experiments with diagnosed ADHD individuals in real-world foraging tasks. Professor Michael J Reiss from University College London, who was not involved in the study, notes that while ADHD can have serious negative consequences, it may also be advantageous in situations requiring rapid decision-making and physical activity, as seen in our evolutionary past. He emphasised that while "ADHD can be a serious problem but it’s a problem in large measure because of today’s environments." (With inputs from agencies)

Can ADHD traits be a superpower? New study reveals they have evolutionary benefits

<p>India's mental health landscape paints a complex picture. On the one hand, the need for comprehensive support is booming, with 150 million individuals requiring care, according to NIMHANS data. Yet, less than 30 million actively seek help, highlighting a vast gap in accessibility.</p>

<p>Compounding the issue is a severe shortage of mental health professionals, with only 0.3 psychiatrists per 100,000 people.</p>

<p>To understand this gap, we spoke to Parveen Shaikh, Vice President of Operations at Mpower, a multidisciplinary mental healthcare initiative of Aditya Birla Education Trust. On the shortage and the solutions, she emphasised the need to increase postgraduate medical seats in psychiatry and train grassroots health workers as crucial first steps, along with leveraging digital technology and public awareness campaigns.</p>

<p>The consequences of unaddressed mental health extend far beyond individual suffering. The World Health Organization estimates the economic toll of mental disorders in India to be $1.03 trillion. While the current budget allocation towards mental health sits under 1 per cent, experts like Shaikh argue for a paradigm shift. "Increased investment in mental health isn't just a social imperative, but would directly lead to economic gains, reduced healthcare costs, and improved public health outcomes."</p>

<p>Despite the challenges, the global mental health tech landscape is witnessing positive developments. In 2023, the sector saw a surge in funding for teleconsultation, employee mental health solutions, and digital therapeutics. While India's market revenue is projected to reach $1.14 billion in 2024, the per-person figure of $11.93 underscores the need for wider accessibility.</p>

<p>Shaikh highlights the potential of technology, "Emerging technologies like virtual therapy and mobile apps offering cognitive behavioural therapy can play a major role in increasing access and data management."</p>

<p><strong>A multi-pronged approach for a brighter future</strong></p>

<p>Addressing India's mental health gaps requires a multifaceted approach. Integrating mental health into schools and workplaces, fostering public-private partnerships, and running ongoing awareness campaigns can further pave the way for a more inclusive and supportive environment.</p>

<p>As Shaikh concludes, "Public awareness campaigns for destigmatisation, policy reforms for streamlined licensing, and encouraging public-private partnerships are all crucial steps. By working together, we can build a future where mental health is no longer shrouded in silence but embraced with understanding and the resources needed for everyone to thrive."</p>


India's mental health landscape paints a complex picture. On the one hand, the need for comprehensive support is booming, with 150 million individuals requiring care, according to NIMHANS data.

India's mental health landscape paints a complex picture. On the one hand, the need for comprehensive support is booming, with 150 million individuals requiring care, according to NIMHANS data. Yet, less than 30 million actively seek help, highlighting a vast gap in accessibility. Compounding the issue is a severe shortage of mental health professionals, with only 0.3 psychiatrists per 100,000 people. To understand this gap, we spoke to Parveen Shaikh, Vice President of Operations at Mpower, a multidisciplinary mental healthcare initiative of Aditya Birla Education Trust. On the shortage and the solutions, she emphasised the need to increase postgraduate medical seats in psychiatry and train grassroots health workers as crucial first steps, along with leveraging digital technology and public awareness campaigns. The consequences of unaddressed mental health extend far beyond individual suffering. The World Health Organization estimates the economic toll of mental disorders in India to be $1.03 trillion. While the current budget allocation towards mental health sits under 1 per cent, experts like Shaikh argue for a paradigm shift. "Increased investment in mental health isn't just a social imperative, but would directly lead to economic gains, reduced healthcare costs, and improved public health outcomes." Despite the challenges, the global mental health tech landscape is witnessing positive developments. In 2023, the sector saw a surge in funding for teleconsultation, employee mental health solutions, and digital therapeutics. While India's market revenue is projected to reach $1.14 billion in 2024, the per-person figure of $11.93 underscores the need for wider accessibility. Shaikh highlights the potential of technology, "Emerging technologies like virtual therapy and mobile apps offering cognitive behavioural therapy can play a major role in increasing access and data management." A multi-pronged approach for a brighter future Addressing India's mental health gaps requires a multifaceted approach. Integrating mental health into schools and workplaces, fostering public-private partnerships, and running ongoing awareness campaigns can further pave the way for a more inclusive and supportive environment. As Shaikh concludes, "Public awareness campaigns for destigmatisation, policy reforms for streamlined licensing, and encouraging public-private partnerships are all crucial steps. By working together, we can build a future where mental health is no longer shrouded in silence but embraced with understanding and the resources needed for everyone to thrive."

Decoding India's mental health: A web of challenges, solutions, and hope

<p>San Mateo County, situated in California's Silicon Valley, made headlines by passing a resolution officially declaring loneliness a public health crisis. The Board of Supervisors unanimously voted on this decision, marking a significant step in addressing the issue.</p>

<p>Supervisor David Canepa stressed on the gravity of the situation, likening loneliness to smoking a pack of cigarettes daily.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“San Mateo County was the first in the nation to declare loneliness a public health crisis after the Board of Supervisors unanimously passed a resolution my office authored Tuesday,” said supervisor David Canepa in a post on X.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Loneliness has a profound impact on health and is comparable to smoking a pack of cigarettes a day,” he added.</p>

<p>Canepa didn't stop at the county level; he urged the state of California to establish a "minister of loneliness" position. This proposed role aims to assist those silently suffering and aims to restore meaningful connections lost during the pandemic-induced isolation.</p>

<p>San Mateo County, among the most affluent in the United States, hosts headquarters of major tech companies such as Facebook, YouTube, and Electronic Arts. During the third quarter of 2023, the median home price in the county stood at $1,573,470.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/getting-stuck-in-traffic-linked-to-poor-mental-health-study-668557">Also read |&nbsp;Longer daily commute linked to poor mental health: Study</a></p>

<h2><strong>Pandemic's impact</strong></h2>

<p>With California being the first state to enforce a statewide stay-at-home order in March 2020, the pandemic exacerbated feelings of loneliness and isolation. The declaration of loneliness as a public health emergency underscores the severity of the issue in the wake of the pandemic.</p>

<p>Last year, US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy issued a report addressing the "loneliness and isolation epidemic" prevalent in the United States. Murthy emphasised the vital role of social connection in enhancing individual and population health, community resilience, safety, and prosperity. He noted that while issues related to loneliness had been escalating for years, the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the situation.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;What is 'kidulting' and how does it affect your mental health?</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/what-is-kidulting-and-how-does-it-affect-your-mental-health-626159/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Mental health experts&nbsp;proposed multifaceted approaches to combat loneliness, including reevaluating relationships with social media, strengthening social communities, and increasing mental health awareness.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


San Mateo County, situated in California's Silicon Valley, made headlines by passing a resolution officially declaring loneliness a public health crisis. The Board of Supervisors unanimously voted on this decision, marking a significant step in addressing the issue.

San Mateo County, situated in California's Silicon Valley, made headlines by passing a resolution officially declaring loneliness a public health crisis. The Board of Supervisors unanimously voted on this decision, marking a significant step in addressing the issue. Supervisor David Canepa stressed on the gravity of the situation, likening loneliness to smoking a pack of cigarettes daily. “San Mateo County was the first in the nation to declare loneliness a public health crisis after the Board of Supervisors unanimously passed a resolution my office authored Tuesday,” said supervisor David Canepa in a post on X. “Loneliness has a profound impact on health and is comparable to smoking a pack of cigarettes a day,” he added. Canepa didn't stop at the county level; he urged the state of California to establish a "minister of loneliness" position. This proposed role aims to assist those silently suffering and aims to restore meaningful connections lost during the pandemic-induced isolation. San Mateo County, among the most affluent in the United States, hosts headquarters of major tech companies such as Facebook, YouTube, and Electronic Arts. During the third quarter of 2023, the median home price in the county stood at $1,573,470. Also read | Longer daily commute linked to poor mental health: Study Pandemic's impact With California being the first state to enforce a statewide stay-at-home order in March 2020, the pandemic exacerbated feelings of loneliness and isolation. The declaration of loneliness as a public health emergency underscores the severity of the issue in the wake of the pandemic. Last year, US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy issued a report addressing the "loneliness and isolation epidemic" prevalent in the United States. Murthy emphasised the vital role of social connection in enhancing individual and population health, community resilience, safety, and prosperity. He noted that while issues related to loneliness had been escalating for years, the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the situation. Also watch | What is 'kidulting' and how does it affect your mental health? Mental health experts proposed multifaceted approaches to combat loneliness, including reevaluating relationships with social media, strengthening social communities, and increasing mental health awareness. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Silicon Valley's rich county declares loneliness a public health emergency, a first in the nation

<p>Researchers have found that women are more likely than men to turn to antidepressants after a breakup. This phenomenon is attributed to gender-specific roles within families and disparities in responsibilities and economic status.</p>

<p>A <a href="https://jech.bmj.com/content/early/2024/01/04/jech-2023-221529">study</a> examining antidepressant usage among 228,644 individuals aged 50 to 70 in Finland from 1996 to 2018 revealed intriguing insights. The cohort consisted of people&nbsp;who experienced divorce, separation, or bereavement due to their partner's death.</p>

<h2><strong>Breakdown of findings</strong></h2>

<p>Of the participants, 33 per cent were divorced, 30 per cent&nbsp;had separated from their partners, and 37 per cent&nbsp;were bereaved. Antidepressant use increased in the six months leading up to divorce for both men (5 per cent) and women (7 per cent), with usage declining post-divorce but remaining elevated compared to pre-divorce levels.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/inheritance-of-attraction-study-claims-children-of-attractive-parents-earn-more-687432">Also read | Inheritance of attraction? 'Hot parents' study claims children of attractive people earn more</a></p>

<h2><strong>Are there any gender discrepancies?</strong></h2>

<p>Women exhibited a more significant increase in antidepressant use in the four years before a breakup compared to men, with a 6 per cent&nbsp;rise for women versus 3.2 per cent&nbsp;for men. While men's antidepressant use returned to pre-breakup levels within 12 months, it continued to rise among women.</p>

<p>Researchers attribute the heightened impact of union dissolution on women's mental health to gender-specific family roles, responsibilities, and economic disparities.</p>

<p>Despite these challenges, women's broader social networks, increased social support, and healthier behaviours might facilitate better coping mechanisms, potentially reducing their vulnerability during transitions.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas | Elmo's simple tweet triggers a tsunami of angst | Is the world depressed?</strong></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-elmos-simple-tweet-triggers-a-tsunami-of-angst-is-the-world-depressed-686111/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Following the death of a partner, both men and women experienced higher antidepressant usage up to four years before the event. Women showed a 7 per cent&nbsp;increase in usage three months before and after bereavement, compared to 5.5 per cent among men.</p>

<p>Approximately 53,460 people entered new relationships within two to three years among the study participants, with men demonstrating a higher likelihood of doing so than women, according to the&nbsp;findings.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Researchers have found that women are more likely than men to turn to antidepressants after a breakup. This phenomenon is attributed to gender-specific roles within families and disparities in responsibilities and economic status.

Researchers have found that women are more likely than men to turn to antidepressants after a breakup. This phenomenon is attributed to gender-specific roles within families and disparities in responsibilities and economic status. A study examining antidepressant usage among 228,644 individuals aged 50 to 70 in Finland from 1996 to 2018 revealed intriguing insights. The cohort consisted of people who experienced divorce, separation, or bereavement due to their partner's death. Breakdown of findings Of the participants, 33 per cent were divorced, 30 per cent had separated from their partners, and 37 per cent were bereaved. Antidepressant use increased in the six months leading up to divorce for both men (5 per cent) and women (7 per cent), with usage declining post-divorce but remaining elevated compared to pre-divorce levels. Also read | Inheritance of attraction? 'Hot parents' study claims children of attractive people earn more Are there any gender discrepancies? Women exhibited a more significant increase in antidepressant use in the four years before a breakup compared to men, with a 6 per cent rise for women versus 3.2 per cent for men. While men's antidepressant use returned to pre-breakup levels within 12 months, it continued to rise among women. Researchers attribute the heightened impact of union dissolution on women's mental health to gender-specific family roles, responsibilities, and economic disparities. Despite these challenges, women's broader social networks, increased social support, and healthier behaviours might facilitate better coping mechanisms, potentially reducing their vulnerability during transitions. Also watch | Gravitas | Elmo's simple tweet triggers a tsunami of angst | Is the world depressed? Following the death of a partner, both men and women experienced higher antidepressant usage up to four years before the event. Women showed a 7 per cent increase in usage three months before and after bereavement, compared to 5.5 per cent among men. Approximately 53,460 people entered new relationships within two to three years among the study participants, with men demonstrating a higher likelihood of doing so than women, according to the findings. (With inputs from agencies)

Separation impacts women most, heightened use of anti-depressant proves, as per study

<p>In times of weakness and emotional stress, some of us take the help of mental health professionals. We make use of &nbsp;their expertise in the field in order to deal with the emotional turmoil we are going through.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But have you ever wondered what goes on inside the mind of a therapist?&nbsp;</p>

<p>They help us understand our emotions, but what about their well-being, and how do they deal with the emotional rollercoaster ride that comes with their job?&nbsp;</p>

<p>One might say they are trained enough to filter their emotions or create a shield to protect themselves to move on.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But we tend to forget that, in the end, they are also humans.&nbsp;</p>

<p>And all humans grapple with anxiety, stress, and uneasiness at times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>So, to understand how professional therapists deal with the stress that comes with their jobs, I spoke to Alisha Sethi, a psychotherapist based in Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sethi focuses on processing the past traumas any person might be going through. And how unresolved past experiences of a person might be affecting their present-day circumstances.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Understanding stress and seeking support&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>While going through emotional turmoil, it is essential to understand the markers, signals, or some instances that might be triggering stress. As a professional, they do the same. Before or after a session, if they feel heavy due to a particular instance, the psychologist tends to go back mentally and understand the factor that made them feel in a certain way.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Sometimes, the stress is tolerable. And sometimes it is not. Then, during such situations, I take the help of other therapist friends, and with their help, without disclosing the client's details, we discuss taking a different approach next time", Sethi says.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/how-important-is-a-good-nights-sleep-for-better-health-and-productivity-680984">How important is a good night’s sleep for better health and productivity?</a></h2>

<p>"In some cases, if I enter an unknown arena, emotionally, then it is always better to take the guidance of our supervisors. It is also possible that while pondering upon the possible stressful signals, you might discover that some instances stuck a nerve, which could be something personal that triggered your emotions. So you seek the help you require and then learn to deal with them as well", she elaborates.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Putting yourself in others' shoes and not letting it affect you</strong></h2>

<p>When dabbling with different emotions of various persons, it can be overwhelming for professionals, and there may be instances that sometimes they resonate with what their client is going through.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While listening to traumatic experiences, there is a chance they get reminded of similar situations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sethi says that during such times, it is essential to remind oneself that this is the client's space, not yours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"And at the same time, remember that the cornerstone of psychology is to understand what the person is going through. And understand them through their perspective. It is about being empathetic. Often, it means tapping into a similar instance that you have faced. Therapists are in therapy because they have processed most of their feelings beforehand", she adds.</p>

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/turning-50-in-style-kate-moss-celebrates-alcohol-free-birthday-680824">Turning 50 in style: Kate Moss celebrates alcohol-free birthday</a></h2>

<h2><strong>Being seen and being heard&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In the Indian context, mental health has always been a taboo.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Previously, people hesitated to talk about their emotions openly, which was a trivial topic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But things took a different turn after the Covid-19 pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>People became more and more aware of their emotional well-being and started talking about mental health.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The pandemic brought a significant shift in how people were perceiving their mental health issues. It spotlighted the link between emotional well-being and being physically fit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sethi points out that she witnessed an observable shift in mental health awareness. And even how she talks about the topic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I'm part of a larger group and have noticed how I talk about it. Comfort for me, when it comes to talking about mental health in community places, has also enhanced", Sethi points out.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Dealing with mental health issues can be troublesome</strong></h2>

<p>And there is no shame in asking for help.</p>

<p>The help will only make you feel better.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As we progress as a society, it's important to note that anyone can be suffering mentally; all we need to do is provide a safe space and a shoulder to lean on.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sethi has one message to the world: It is important to make people be seen or heard.&nbsp;</p>


In times of weakness and emotional stress, some of us take the help of mental health professionals. We make use of their expertise in the field in order to deal with the emotional turmoil we are going through.

In times of weakness and emotional stress, some of us take the help of mental health professionals. We make use of their expertise in the field in order to deal with the emotional turmoil we are going through. But have you ever wondered what goes on inside the mind of a therapist? They help us understand our emotions, but what about their well-being, and how do they deal with the emotional rollercoaster ride that comes with their job? One might say they are trained enough to filter their emotions or create a shield to protect themselves to move on. But we tend to forget that, in the end, they are also humans. And all humans grapple with anxiety, stress, and uneasiness at times. So, to understand how professional therapists deal with the stress that comes with their jobs, I spoke to Alisha Sethi, a psychotherapist based in Delhi. Sethi focuses on processing the past traumas any person might be going through. And how unresolved past experiences of a person might be affecting their present-day circumstances. Understanding stress and seeking support While going through emotional turmoil, it is essential to understand the markers, signals, or some instances that might be triggering stress. As a professional, they do the same. Before or after a session, if they feel heavy due to a particular instance, the psychologist tends to go back mentally and understand the factor that made them feel in a certain way. "Sometimes, the stress is tolerable. And sometimes it is not. Then, during such situations, I take the help of other therapist friends, and with their help, without disclosing the client's details, we discuss taking a different approach next time", Sethi says. How important is a good night’s sleep for better health and productivity? "In some cases, if I enter an unknown arena, emotionally, then it is always better to take the guidance of our supervisors. It is also possible that while pondering upon the possible stressful signals, you might discover that some instances stuck a nerve, which could be something personal that triggered your emotions. So you seek the help you require and then learn to deal with them as well", she elaborates. Putting yourself in others' shoes and not letting it affect you When dabbling with different emotions of various persons, it can be overwhelming for professionals, and there may be instances that sometimes they resonate with what their client is going through. While listening to traumatic experiences, there is a chance they get reminded of similar situations. Sethi says that during such times, it is essential to remind oneself that this is the client's space, not yours. "And at the same time, remember that the cornerstone of psychology is to understand what the person is going through. And understand them through their perspective. It is about being empathetic. Often, it means tapping into a similar instance that you have faced. Therapists are in therapy because they have processed most of their feelings beforehand", she adds. Turning 50 in style: Kate Moss celebrates alcohol-free birthday Being seen and being heard In the Indian context, mental health has always been a taboo. Previously, people hesitated to talk about their emotions openly, which was a trivial topic. But things took a different turn after the Covid-19 pandemic. People became more and more aware of their emotional well-being and started talking about mental health. The pandemic brought a significant shift in how people were perceiving their mental health issues. It spotlighted the link between emotional well-being and being physically fit. Sethi points out that she witnessed an observable shift in mental health awareness. And even how she talks about the topic. "I'm part of a larger group and have noticed how I talk about it. Comfort for me, when it comes to talking about mental health in community places, has also enhanced", Sethi points out. Dealing with mental health issues can be troublesome And there is no shame in asking for help. The help will only make you feel better. As we progress as a society, it's important to note that anyone can be suffering mentally; all we need to do is provide a safe space and a shoulder to lean on. Sethi has one message to the world: It is important to make people be seen or heard.

What goes inside a phychotherapist's mind? Are they affected by patients' mental issues?

<p>Concerns about the impact of social media on users' mental health have always been there. Do tech giants like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram care, or is it all about engagement for them? If they do care, to what extent?</p>

<p>In the last few years, instances where social media has contributed to self-harm have come to light across the world.</p>

<p>&nbsp;A recent incident that especially shocked the world is from the UK, where a woman Chloe Macdermott made a so-called suicide pact with strangers she met online and killed herself.</p>

<p>Paul Rogers, the coroner investigating her case, said he believed tech giants like Google and Amazon have the power to prevent tragedies like Chloe Macdermott's suicide pact.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjt6amOuNWDAxUEsVYBHR6dCJgQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coroner-investigating-chloe-macdermott-suicide-pact-says-google-amazon-can-prevent-such-tragedies-675522" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/coroner-investigating-chloe-macdermott-suicide-pact-says-google-amazon-can-prevent-such-tragedies-675522&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjt6amOuNWDAxUEsVYBHR6dCJgQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Chloe Macdermott suicide pact: 'Google, Amazon can prevent such tragedies', says Coroner investigating case</a></strong></p>

<p>WION decided to investigate how easy or difficult it would be to go about making such a pact on the big three social media platforms: Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For this, we simply ran a search for the term 'suicide pact,' to see what would come up. The results were concerning.</p>

<h2><strong>Twitter/ X</strong></h2>

<p>On Elon Musk's Twitter, now called X, the search for 'suicide pact' brought up a page that said in bold "Help is available".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, you are not alone. Our partners can help. You can refer to NIMHANS website for resources or contact the helplines given in the Twitter list," it adds.</p>

<p><img alt="X 1" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3a9de136-ad45-431f-998d-7b250aac83e4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Fb.png" /></p>

<p>This is followed by two links, if&nbsp;one is searching in India. One opens up the NIMHANS (National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences) website, India's apex centre for mental health.</p>

<p>The other one, labelled 'Suicide Prevention Helplines (Twitter List),' should lead to a detailed depository of helplines, but brings up a page that says <em>"Hmm...this page doesn't exist. Try searching for something else."&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><em><img alt="X 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="22e28d1f-0b44-4e23-a2a1-799cfbf31da2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/twit%20suicide%202.png" /></em></p>

<p>Needless to say, this is concerning. If the search was run by someone contemplating suicide, to them, stuck in a dark phase, this might seem like a further sign of hopelessness.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Mumbai: 23% more minor girls than boys died by suicide in 4 years</strong></p>

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<p>This could very well be a result of the social media giant formerly known as Twitter slashing its global trust and safety staff by 30 per cent since the Musk 2022 takeover.</p>

<p>Apart from this, the search fetched results that could be triggering. Here are some.</p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Who's up for a suicide pact?</p>
— Mario (@thecarnello) <a href="https://twitter.com/thecarnello/status/1743767596254494749?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">suicide pact anyone?</p>
— 🐾tee🐈‍⬛ (@newfoundg0ry) <a href="https://twitter.com/newfoundg0ry/status/1742500102978121990?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">first date idea: suicide pact</p>
— Kat (@ollkorrect0) <a href="https://twitter.com/ollkorrect0/status/1728930369884557661?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">anyone up for a suicide pact?</p>
— jai (@bellepitseleh) <a href="https://twitter.com/bellepitseleh/status/1742884774577115294?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A suicide pact would be so cool right now</p>
— Campurr (@Purrpurrchan) <a href="https://twitter.com/Purrpurrchan/status/1734580324338729275?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<h2><strong>Facebook</strong></h2>

<p>The same search for 'suicide pact' on Facebook showed a page with yet another "Help is available" sign. Two buttons followed this one. The first one, 'Get Support', led to another page that had very helpful results.</p>

<p><img alt="FB1" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="96b63b21-d55c-4397-ba40-4040e5573e0d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Fb_0.png" /></p>

<p>A 'Reach out to a friend' nudges users to get in touch with people they trust, which for someone stuck in the dark loop of self-harm can be a lifesaver, especially given that mental health problems often come with self-isolation.<br />
<img alt="FB2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ed834737-14f8-4c1a-963e-a30bf4e43bdd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/fb%202.png" /></p>

<p>The second button, 'Contact a helpline', brought up several helplines from across the country; telephonic, email-based and even websites.</p>

<p><img alt="FB3" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5c898cd4-6d6a-4282-b490-c07f483df913" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/fb%203.png" /></p>

<p>'See suggestions from professionals outside of Meta', which was the third option, showed infographics on things that "others have found helpful".</p>

<p><img alt="FB4" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61dd60a9-bbe6-4478-ba96-8660cee530fb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/fb%204_0.png" /></p>

<h2><strong>Instagram</strong></h2>

<p>Another Meta platform, Instagram, is especially popular among young people. However, our hopes which were raised by Facebook's exhaustive and helpful content were dashed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The search for 'suicide pact' on Instagram fetched many results; accounts, hashtags etc. that made mention of the term. Instagram, which as per Statista boasts 30.8 per cent of users between the ages of 18 and 24, an especially vulnerable age group, didn't even have a "Help is available" for courtesy's sake.</p>

<p><img alt="IG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="472003ab-18ed-4240-a86e-9e49999d7c8e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/IG%20suicide.jpg" /></p>

<p>Given that a huge percentage of the users on these platforms are young children, should certain content and search results be censored, at least to some extent?&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjt6amOuNWDAxUEsVYBHR6dCJgQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/disturbing-trend-in-2022-more-people-than-ever-died-by-suicide-in-the-united-states-664285" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/disturbing-trend-in-2022-more-people-than-ever-died-by-suicide-in-the-united-states-664285&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjt6amOuNWDAxUEsVYBHR6dCJgQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">Disturbing trend: In 2022, more suicides than ever took place in the United States</a></strong></p>

<p>While these tech giants claim to address mental health concerns, their actions sometimes fall short.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Social media platforms' emphasis on engagement can inadvertently lead to the amplification of sensational, provocative, or harmful material that can contribute to dangerous steps taken at sensitive moments.</p>

<p>Big tech must recognise that striking a balance between user engagement and mental well-being is not just a moral obligation, but a critical step towards fostering healthier online communities.</p>


Concerns about the impact of social media on users' mental health have always been there. Do tech giants like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram care, or is it all about engagement for them?

Concerns about the impact of social media on users' mental health have always been there. Do tech giants like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram care, or is it all about engagement for them? If they do care, to what extent? In the last few years, instances where social media has contributed to self-harm have come to light across the world. A recent incident that especially shocked the world is from the UK, where a woman Chloe Macdermott made a so-called suicide pact with strangers she met online and killed herself. Paul Rogers, the coroner investigating her case, said he believed tech giants like Google and Amazon have the power to prevent tragedies like Chloe Macdermott's suicide pact. Also read | Chloe Macdermott suicide pact: 'Google, Amazon can prevent such tragedies', says Coroner investigating case WION decided to investigate how easy or difficult it would be to go about making such a pact on the big three social media platforms: Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. For this, we simply ran a search for the term 'suicide pact,' to see what would come up. The results were concerning. Twitter/ X On Elon Musk's Twitter, now called X, the search for 'suicide pact' brought up a page that said in bold "Help is available". "If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, you are not alone. Our partners can help. You can refer to NIMHANS website for resources or contact the helplines given in the Twitter list," it adds. This is followed by two links, if one is searching in India. One opens up the NIMHANS (National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences) website, India's apex centre for mental health. The other one, labelled 'Suicide Prevention Helplines (Twitter List),' should lead to a detailed depository of helplines, but brings up a page that says "Hmm...this page doesn't exist. Try searching for something else." Needless to say, this is concerning. If the search was run by someone contemplating suicide, to them, stuck in a dark phase, this might seem like a further sign of hopelessness. Watch | Mumbai: 23% more minor girls than boys died by suicide in 4 years × This could very well be a result of the social media giant formerly known as Twitter slashing its global trust and safety staff by 30 per cent since the Musk 2022 takeover. Apart from this, the search fetched results that could be triggering. Here are some. Who's up for a suicide pact? — Mario (@thecarnello) January 6, 2024 × suicide pact anyone? — 🐾tee🐈‍⬛ (@newfoundg0ry) January 3, 2024 × first date idea: suicide pact — Kat (@ollkorrect0) November 27, 2023 × anyone up for a suicide pact? — jai (@bellepitseleh) January 4, 2024 × A suicide pact would be so cool right now — Campurr (@Purrpurrchan) December 12, 2023 × Facebook The same search for 'suicide pact' on Facebook showed a page with yet another "Help is available" sign. Two buttons followed this one. The first one, 'Get Support', led to another page that had very helpful results. A 'Reach out to a friend' nudges users to get in touch with people they trust, which for someone stuck in the dark loop of self-harm can be a lifesaver, especially given that mental health problems often come with self-isolation. The second button, 'Contact a helpline', brought up several helplines from across the country; telephonic, email-based and even websites. 'See suggestions from professionals outside of Meta', which was the third option, showed infographics on things that "others have found helpful". Instagram Another Meta platform, Instagram, is especially popular among young people. However, our hopes which were raised by Facebook's exhaustive and helpful content were dashed. The search for 'suicide pact' on Instagram fetched many results; accounts, hashtags etc. that made mention of the term. Instagram, which as per Statista boasts 30.8 per cent of users between the ages of 18 and 24, an especially vulnerable age group, didn't even have a "Help is available" for courtesy's sake. Given that a huge percentage of the users on these platforms are young children, should certain content and search results be censored, at least to some extent? Also read | Disturbing trend: In 2022, more suicides than ever took place in the United States While these tech giants claim to address mental health concerns, their actions sometimes fall short. Social media platforms' emphasis on engagement can inadvertently lead to the amplification of sensational, provocative, or harmful material that can contribute to dangerous steps taken at sensitive moments. Big tech must recognise that striking a balance between user engagement and mental well-being is not just a moral obligation, but a critical step towards fostering healthier online communities.

Dark side of social media: Do X, Facebook, Instagram care about your mental health? WION investigates

<p>In 2021, a tragedy unfolded when a 43-year-old British woman, Chloe Macdermott, took her own life after making a suicide pact with two individuals she met on an online forum. Now, the coroner investigating the case has called on tech giants Google and Amazon to take action.</p>

<p>The coroner, Paul Rogers, ruled her death as suicide and issued a prevention of future deaths report to tech giants Google and Amazon.</p>

<h2><strong>Power to prevent tragedies</strong></h2>

<p>In the conclusion of the suicide report, coroner Rogers said that he believed Google and Amazon have the power to prevent tragedies like this.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-has-become-stronger-zelensky-vows-to-unleash-wrath-against-russia-in-2024-675416">'Ukraine has become stronger': Zelensky vows to unleash 'wrath' against Russia in 2024</a></strong></p>

<p>The report has also been sent to the home, health, and culture secretaries and the national lead for suicide prevention at the National Police Chiefs' Council, reports The Guardian.</p>

<p>He said that it was a matter of concern that the forum used by Macdermott, and other forums like it" encourage suicide, assist it by provision of information about suicide methods, counsel suicide by providing information about it and thereby potentially facilitate the commission of a criminal offence in the United Kingdom".</p>

<p>The forum "permits material to be exchanged and viewed within its open chatrooms whereby suicide is encouraged, assisted, counselled and procured through the provision and exchange of information and methods," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-border-officials-process-a-record-of-around-300000-migrants-in-december-report-675392">US border officials to process a record 300,000 migrants in December: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>"No age or other restrictions are in place to prevent access to children, vulnerable teenagers and vulnerable adults. No prominent signposting is in place to organisations from whom help is available to prevent suicide. Posts are made by users containing details of methods of suicide without any effective administration to remove such harmful content," the coroner further</p>

<p>The organisations now have 56 days to respond with an outline of how they will attempt to prevent future deaths and a timetable for doing so. Furthermore, if no action is taken, they must explain the reasoning behind that.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened to Chloe Macdermott?</strong></h2>

<p>On May 23, 2021, Chloe Macdermott who had been struggling with mental health issues for a few years, made a suicide pact with two people she had met online.</p>

<p>While searching for ways to end her life, the 43-year-old stumbled upon an online forum where she planned suicide. Using the poison&nbsp;bought on Amazon, she killed herself.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong><em>If you or someone you know wants help for mental well being, don't hesitate to talk to a professional. Aasra (Mumbai) 022-27546669, 98204 66726, Sneha (Chennai) 044-24640050, Sumaitri (Delhi) 011-23389090, Cooj (Goa) 0832- 2252525, Jeevan (Jamshedpur) 065-76453841, Pratheeksha (Kochi) 048-42448830, Maithri (Kochi) 0484-2540530, Roshni (Hyderabad) 040-66202000, Lifeline 033-64643267 (Kolkata), Parivarthan (Bangalore) +91 76766 02602</em></strong></p>

<p><strong><em>WION is not associated with any of these organisations and does not make any recommendations</em></strong></p>


In 2021, a tragedy unfolded when a 43-year-old British woman, Chloe Macdermott, took her own life after making a suicide pact with two individuals she met on an online forum.

In 2021, a tragedy unfolded when a 43-year-old British woman, Chloe Macdermott, took her own life after making a suicide pact with two individuals she met on an online forum. Now, the coroner investigating the case has called on tech giants Google and Amazon to take action. The coroner, Paul Rogers, ruled her death as suicide and issued a prevention of future deaths report to tech giants Google and Amazon. Power to prevent tragedies In the conclusion of the suicide report, coroner Rogers said that he believed Google and Amazon have the power to prevent tragedies like this. Also read | 'Ukraine has become stronger': Zelensky vows to unleash 'wrath' against Russia in 2024 The report has also been sent to the home, health, and culture secretaries and the national lead for suicide prevention at the National Police Chiefs' Council, reports The Guardian. He said that it was a matter of concern that the forum used by Macdermott, and other forums like it" encourage suicide, assist it by provision of information about suicide methods, counsel suicide by providing information about it and thereby potentially facilitate the commission of a criminal offence in the United Kingdom". The forum "permits material to be exchanged and viewed within its open chatrooms whereby suicide is encouraged, assisted, counselled and procured through the provision and exchange of information and methods," he added. Also read | US border officials to process a record 300,000 migrants in December: Report "No age or other restrictions are in place to prevent access to children, vulnerable teenagers and vulnerable adults. No prominent signposting is in place to organisations from whom help is available to prevent suicide. Posts are made by users containing details of methods of suicide without any effective administration to remove such harmful content," the coroner further The organisations now have 56 days to respond with an outline of how they will attempt to prevent future deaths and a timetable for doing so. Furthermore, if no action is taken, they must explain the reasoning behind that. What happened to Chloe Macdermott? On May 23, 2021, Chloe Macdermott who had been struggling with mental health issues for a few years, made a suicide pact with two people she had met online. While searching for ways to end her life, the 43-year-old stumbled upon an online forum where she planned suicide. Using the poison bought on Amazon, she killed herself. (With inputs from agencies) If you or someone you know wants help for mental well being, don't hesitate to talk to a professional. Aasra (Mumbai) 022-27546669, 98204 66726, Sneha (Chennai) 044-24640050, Sumaitri (Delhi) 011-23389090, Cooj (Goa) 0832- 2252525, Jeevan (Jamshedpur) 065-76453841, Pratheeksha (Kochi) 048-42448830, Maithri (Kochi) 0484-2540530, Roshni (Hyderabad) 040-66202000, Lifeline 033-64643267 (Kolkata), Parivarthan (Bangalore) +91 76766 02602 WION is not associated with any of these organisations and does not make any recommendations

Chloe Macdermott suicide pact: 'Google, Amazon can prevent such tragedies', says Coroner investigating case

Is AI going to revolutionise mental health sector? AI-driven avatars and virtual reality therapy improve medication adherence and offer therapeutic interventions.

AI can diagnose depression better than doctors, says study

<p>In the short span of just four years, more than half a million young people in the United Kingdom are out of work. As per recently released data from the UK's Office for National Statistics, in the first three months of 2023, more than 560,000 people aged 16 to 34 were without a job.</p>

<h2><strong>A crisis at hand</strong></h2>

<p>As per a report by The Guardian, experts have chalked the high numbers to a growing mental health crisis. They also blame an underinvestment in health services on the rising economic inactivity — this includes both those who weren't working and those who weren't seeking work.</p>

<p>A report by the Health Foundation found that today, 16 to 34-year-olds were "as likely to report a work-limiting condition as someone aged 45–54 years 10 years ago".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-christmas-a-thing-of-the-past-uk-sees-its-warmest-christmas-eve-in-more-than-a-decade-673231">White Christmas: A thing of the past? UK sees its warmest Christmas eve in more than a decade</a></strong></p>

<p>Another report, a survey by the ONS labour force, found that more than a third, or about 36 per cent of people in the age group 16 to 34 years old, out of job individuals suffer from mental health problems. Among these young people, depression, bad nerves, and anxiety were the most prevalent.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The cause</strong></h2>

<p>Difficulties in accessing mental health services and "12 years of underinvestment in the public health sector" play a huge role in poor population health, says David Strain, a professor at the University of Exeter and chair of the British Medical Association's Board of Science.</p>

<p>He said that the nation's health service is focused on treating sick people instead of keeping people healthy.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/low-cost-airline-in-us-puts-unaccompanied-kid-on-wrong-flight-internet-reacts-673264">Home Alone in 2023? US airline trolled for putting unaccompanied kid on wrong flight</a></strong></p>

<p>"We have a national disease service these days, not a national health service. We are focused on treating sick people rather than keeping people healthy. And people haven't had access to essential mental health services."</p>

<p>He said that while long Covid probably played a part in it, exact numbers are difficult to know.</p>

<p>Researchers pointing out the post-pandemic effect of people out of work due to mental health problems said that these problems are not new. They have been part of a wider trend that goes back almost a decade to 2012,&nbsp;they say.</p>

<p>A Health Foundation report shows that the number of people not working due to mental health issues has almost doubled in 11 years — from 6.7 per cent in 2012, to 12.7 per cent in 2023.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In the short span of just four years, more than half a million young people in the United Kingdom are out of work. As per recently released data from the UK's Office for National Statistics, in the first three months of 2023, more than 560,000 people aged 16 to 34 were without a job.

In the short span of just four years, more than half a million young people in the United Kingdom are out of work. As per recently released data from the UK's Office for National Statistics, in the first three months of 2023, more than 560,000 people aged 16 to 34 were without a job. A crisis at hand As per a report by The Guardian, experts have chalked the high numbers to a growing mental health crisis. They also blame an underinvestment in health services on the rising economic inactivity — this includes both those who weren't working and those who weren't seeking work. A report by the Health Foundation found that today, 16 to 34-year-olds were "as likely to report a work-limiting condition as someone aged 45–54 years 10 years ago". Also read | White Christmas: A thing of the past? UK sees its warmest Christmas eve in more than a decade Another report, a survey by the ONS labour force, found that more than a third, or about 36 per cent of people in the age group 16 to 34 years old, out of job individuals suffer from mental health problems. Among these young people, depression, bad nerves, and anxiety were the most prevalent. The cause Difficulties in accessing mental health services and "12 years of underinvestment in the public health sector" play a huge role in poor population health, says David Strain, a professor at the University of Exeter and chair of the British Medical Association's Board of Science. He said that the nation's health service is focused on treating sick people instead of keeping people healthy. Also read | Home Alone in 2023? US airline trolled for putting unaccompanied kid on wrong flight "We have a national disease service these days, not a national health service. We are focused on treating sick people rather than keeping people healthy. And people haven't had access to essential mental health services." He said that while long Covid probably played a part in it, exact numbers are difficult to know. Researchers pointing out the post-pandemic effect of people out of work due to mental health problems said that these problems are not new. They have been part of a wider trend that goes back almost a decade to 2012, they say. A Health Foundation report shows that the number of people not working due to mental health issues has almost doubled in 11 years — from 6.7 per cent in 2012, to 12.7 per cent in 2023. (With inputs from agencies)

In UK, more than 560,000 young people jobless due to mental health issues

Britney Spears is pulling back the curtain on some of the most publicized periods of her life in her upcoming memoir 'The Woman in Me' with many shocking revelations.

The Woman In Me: Inside Britney Spears' mental health journey

Your mental health is more connected to your physical health than you think. Research says severe mental illnesses mean almost double the risk of multiple physical health problems. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas | How does your mental health impact your physical health?

<p>The Indian government has added two new sections in Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) that pertain to&nbsp;women, reported Press Trust of India. The first section has deemed harming a woman's mental health as 'cruelty' while the second has prescribed jail term for anyone who reveals the identity of a sexual assault survivor without their permission.</p>

<p>The BNS is one of the three bills which seek to replace India's criminal laws, including Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC).</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Quad Summit 2024 in India postponed, current dates not working with Quad partners</strong></p>

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<p>Reportedly, the BNS largely retains provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), but adds new offences and removes offences that have been struck down by Indian courts. The bill also seeks to increase penalties and punishments for several offences. The bill has been examined by the Standing Committee on Home Affairs.</p>

<h2><strong>Harming woman's mental health a 'cruelty'</strong></h2>

<p>PTI reported that Section 86 of the BNS now includes harming of a woman's mental health in the definition of 'cruelty'. In the former version of the bill, a jail term of three years was prescribed for a husband or the married woman' in-laws if they treat the woman cruelly.</p>

<p>The Section however, did not define what amounts to "cruel treatment", as reported by PTI , and this has now been added. The definition now has been significantly extended and considers the woman's mental health in addition to her physical well-being.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kashmir-issue-after-pakistan-china-weighs-in-on-indian-supreme-courts-ruling-on-article-370-668910">Kashmir issue: After Pakistan, China weighs in on Indian Supreme Court’s ruling on Article 370</a></strong></p>

<p>The second addition to the BNS is about revealing a sexual assault survivor's identity. The bill now reportedly prescribes two-year jail sentence if anyone reveals the victim's identity from court proceedings without the victim's permission.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-government-corrects-reply-in-lok-sabha-on-question-concerning-designation-of-hamas-668703">Indian government 'corrects reply' in Lok Sabha on question concerning designation of Hamas</a></strong></p>

<p>The bills that seek to replace the previous criminal codes were introduced in Lok Sabha, the lower chamber of Parliament of India, on August 11. Other than the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the other bills were &nbsp;Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam bills.</p>

<p>These bills are aimed at replacing Code of Criminal Procedure Act (1898), the Indian Penal Code (1860) and the Indian Evidence Act (1872) respectively.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Indian government has added two new sections in Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) that pertain to women, reported Press Trust of India. The first section has deemed harming a woman's mental health as 'cruelty' while the second has prescribed jail term for anyone who reveals the identity of a sexual assault survivor without their permission.

The Indian government has added two new sections in Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) that pertain to women, reported Press Trust of India. The first section has deemed harming a woman's mental health as 'cruelty' while the second has prescribed jail term for anyone who reveals the identity of a sexual assault survivor without their permission. The BNS is one of the three bills which seek to replace India's criminal laws, including Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC). Watch | Quad Summit 2024 in India postponed, current dates not working with Quad partners × Reportedly, the BNS largely retains provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), but adds new offences and removes offences that have been struck down by Indian courts. The bill also seeks to increase penalties and punishments for several offences. The bill has been examined by the Standing Committee on Home Affairs. Harming woman's mental health a 'cruelty' PTI reported that Section 86 of the BNS now includes harming of a woman's mental health in the definition of 'cruelty'. In the former version of the bill, a jail term of three years was prescribed for a husband or the married woman' in-laws if they treat the woman cruelly. The Section however, did not define what amounts to "cruel treatment", as reported by PTI , and this has now been added. The definition now has been significantly extended and considers the woman's mental health in addition to her physical well-being. Also Read | Kashmir issue: After Pakistan, China weighs in on Indian Supreme Court’s ruling on Article 370 The second addition to the BNS is about revealing a sexual assault survivor's identity. The bill now reportedly prescribes two-year jail sentence if anyone reveals the victim's identity from court proceedings without the victim's permission. Also Read | Indian government 'corrects reply' in Lok Sabha on question concerning designation of Hamas The bills that seek to replace the previous criminal codes were introduced in Lok Sabha, the lower chamber of Parliament of India, on August 11. Other than the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the other bills were Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam bills. These bills are aimed at replacing Code of Criminal Procedure Act (1898), the Indian Penal Code (1860) and the Indian Evidence Act (1872) respectively. (With inputs from agencies)

New criminal bill in India defines harming woman's mental health as 'cruelty': Report

Recent studies highlight the surprising health risks associated with comfort eating and lengthy commutes. Indulging in fatty foods under stress can reduce vascular function, posing a risk to heart health. Moreover, commuting for more than an hour daily can lead to depressive symptoms, with significant impact observed among various groups including low-income women and childless men.

Gravitas: Binge eating & lengthy commutes: Unseen risks to mental health

<p>No one likes getting stuck in traffic with the noise, and the air pollution, not to mention the boredom, but a recent study shows it can also be detrimental to our mental health. A study published in the Journal of Transport &amp; Health shows how a number of effects of longer daily commutes can snowball into depression.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>About the study</h2>

<p>Longer daily commutes have been linked to several adverse effects on one’s health caused by&nbsp;being less physically active, drinking more alcohol and even sleeping poorly since it leaves less time around busy days for commuters to engage in other activities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, there is not a lot of research on the health impact of lengthy commutes, particularly in Asian countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-eating-fatty-foods-while-being-stressed-out-can-lead-to-heart-attack-study-668448">Turns out, comfort food isn't all that comforting to your heart</a></strong></p>

<p>The recent study was conducted in South Korea, a country which is said to be among those with some of the longest average commuting times and highest rates of depression among the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Researchers analysed data from 23,415 people aged between 20 and 59 years from the Fifth Korean Working Condition Survey, a nationally representative survey conducted in 2017.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The participants were asked to answer questions based on the five-point World Health Organization (WHO) well-being index and the researchers determined their mental health.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The team of researchers also examined several factors including sex, age, education, income, region, marital status, occupation, weekly working hours, shift work, and so on.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did the researchers find?</strong></h2>

<p>The findings were published by a research team led by Dr Lee Dong-wook, a professor in the Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine at Inha University Hospital in South Korea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the study, people who spend more than 60 minutes commuting to and from work are 1.16 times more likely to suffer from depression than those who spend less than half an hour.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/these-living-things-have-quietly-preserved-the-great-wall-of-china-for-ages-and-we-werent-even-aware-668525">&nbsp;These living things have quietly preserved the Great Wall of China for ages and we weren't even aware</a></strong></p>

<p>The average daily commute time was 47 minutes, according to the study, which is nearly four hours spent commuting per week if a person worked five days. The researchers said that this much time spent commuting can cause physical as well as psychological stress.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“With less time to spare, people could be short of time to relieve stress and combat physical fatigue through sleep, hobbies, and other activities,” researchers told Korea Biomedical Review (KBR), last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They added that this also leaves people with less time to invest in a healthy lifestyle, including exercise which may also contribute to depression. At least one-quarter of the 23,415 participants said that they experience depressive symptoms, which the researchers based on their index scores which is far from an actual diagnosis of any kind.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the study also does not show any cause and effect it does link more than hour-long commutes to poorer mental health and noted that it was strongest among men who were unmarried, worked more than 52 hours per week and had no children.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/space-gas-stations-american-startup-aims-to-revolutionise-space-technology-668508">Space gas stations: American startup aims to revolutionise space technology</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, for females, long commuting times were most strongly linked with depressive symptoms among low-income workers, shift workers, and those with children.</p>

<p>“The association between long commuting times and worsened depressive symptoms was found to be stronger among low-income workers,” the researchers noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


No one likes getting stuck in traffic with the noise, and the air pollution, not to mention the boredom, but a recent study shows it can also be detrimental to our mental health.

No one likes getting stuck in traffic with the noise, and the air pollution, not to mention the boredom, but a recent study shows it can also be detrimental to our mental health. A study published in the Journal of Transport & Health shows how a number of effects of longer daily commutes can snowball into depression. About the study Longer daily commutes have been linked to several adverse effects on one’s health caused by being less physically active, drinking more alcohol and even sleeping poorly since it leaves less time around busy days for commuters to engage in other activities. However, there is not a lot of research on the health impact of lengthy commutes, particularly in Asian countries. ALSO READ | Turns out, comfort food isn't all that comforting to your heart The recent study was conducted in South Korea, a country which is said to be among those with some of the longest average commuting times and highest rates of depression among the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries. Researchers analysed data from 23,415 people aged between 20 and 59 years from the Fifth Korean Working Condition Survey, a nationally representative survey conducted in 2017. The participants were asked to answer questions based on the five-point World Health Organization (WHO) well-being index and the researchers determined their mental health. The team of researchers also examined several factors including sex, age, education, income, region, marital status, occupation, weekly working hours, shift work, and so on. What did the researchers find? The findings were published by a research team led by Dr Lee Dong-wook, a professor in the Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine at Inha University Hospital in South Korea. According to the study, people who spend more than 60 minutes commuting to and from work are 1.16 times more likely to suffer from depression than those who spend less than half an hour. ALSO READ | These living things have quietly preserved the Great Wall of China for ages and we weren't even aware The average daily commute time was 47 minutes, according to the study, which is nearly four hours spent commuting per week if a person worked five days. The researchers said that this much time spent commuting can cause physical as well as psychological stress. “With less time to spare, people could be short of time to relieve stress and combat physical fatigue through sleep, hobbies, and other activities,” researchers told Korea Biomedical Review (KBR), last week. They added that this also leaves people with less time to invest in a healthy lifestyle, including exercise which may also contribute to depression. At least one-quarter of the 23,415 participants said that they experience depressive symptoms, which the researchers based on their index scores which is far from an actual diagnosis of any kind. While the study also does not show any cause and effect it does link more than hour-long commutes to poorer mental health and noted that it was strongest among men who were unmarried, worked more than 52 hours per week and had no children. ALSO READ | Space gas stations: American startup aims to revolutionise space technology Meanwhile, for females, long commuting times were most strongly linked with depressive symptoms among low-income workers, shift workers, and those with children. “The association between long commuting times and worsened depressive symptoms was found to be stronger among low-income workers,” the researchers noted. (With inputs from agencies)

Longer daily commute linked to poor mental health: Study

<p>Eating fatty foods as a form of seeking&nbsp;comfort, also known as comfort eating, can exacerbate mental stress and interfere with the natural recovery process, a new study has revealed.</p>

<p>People resort to comfort eating, such as chocolate or crisps, to get rid of the stress and mental strain. However, it can have an overall negative impact on mental health as eating fatty foods can restrict the flow of blood towards the brain, thus increasing the chances of a heart attack.</p>

<p>Instead, researchers suggest&nbsp;people eat fruits and vegetables to treat themselves when they feel stressed out.</p>

<h2><strong>How was the research conducted?</strong></h2>

<p>To conduct the research, Prof Jet Veldhuijzen van Zanten enrolled healthy 18 to 30-year-olds, especially to monitor how their bodies reacted when they ate fatty foods during stress.</p>

<p>“For people who already have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, the impacts could be even more serious. We all deal with stress all the time, but especially for those of us in high-stress jobs and at risk of cardiovascular disease, these findings should be taken seriously. This research can help us make decisions that reduce risks rather than make them worse,” he was quoted as saying by the Guardian.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;New evidence suggests size of the Sun could be smaller</strong></p>

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<p>The study involved providing healthy young adults with two butter croissants for breakfast, followed by a mental math task with increasing speed for eight minutes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The participants received alerts for incorrect answers and could observe themselves on a screen.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Results and observation</strong></h2>

<p>The research revealed that consuming fatty foods during mental stress led to a 1.74 per cent reduction in vascular function. Past studies indicate a 1 per cent decrease in vascular function corresponds to a 13 per cent rise in cardiovascular disease risk.</p>

<p>“The experiment was designed to simulate everyday stress that we might have to deal with at work or at home. When we get stressed, different things happen in the body, our heart rate and blood pressure go up, our blood vessels dilate and blood flow to the brain increases. We also know that the elasticity of our blood vessels – which is a measure of vascular function – declines following mental stress,” said the study’s first author, Rosalind Baynham of the University of Birmingham.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/worlds-oldest-disease-causing-species-found-its-407mn-year-old-fungus-667950"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;World’s oldest disease-causing species found: It’s 407mn-year-old fungus</strong></a></p>

<p>Published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition and Nutrients, the study also highlighted that the intake of healthier foods, especially those rich in polyphenols like cocoa, berries, grapes, apples, and other fruits and vegetables, can prevent the decline in vascular function.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Eating fatty foods as a form of seeking comfort, also known as comfort eating, can exacerbate mental stress and interfere with the natural recovery process, a new study has revealed.

Eating fatty foods as a form of seeking comfort, also known as comfort eating, can exacerbate mental stress and interfere with the natural recovery process, a new study has revealed. People resort to comfort eating, such as chocolate or crisps, to get rid of the stress and mental strain. However, it can have an overall negative impact on mental health as eating fatty foods can restrict the flow of blood towards the brain, thus increasing the chances of a heart attack. Instead, researchers suggest people eat fruits and vegetables to treat themselves when they feel stressed out. How was the research conducted? To conduct the research, Prof Jet Veldhuijzen van Zanten enrolled healthy 18 to 30-year-olds, especially to monitor how their bodies reacted when they ate fatty foods during stress. “For people who already have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, the impacts could be even more serious. We all deal with stress all the time, but especially for those of us in high-stress jobs and at risk of cardiovascular disease, these findings should be taken seriously. This research can help us make decisions that reduce risks rather than make them worse,” he was quoted as saying by the Guardian. Watch: New evidence suggests size of the Sun could be smaller × The study involved providing healthy young adults with two butter croissants for breakfast, followed by a mental math task with increasing speed for eight minutes. The participants received alerts for incorrect answers and could observe themselves on a screen. Results and observation The research revealed that consuming fatty foods during mental stress led to a 1.74 per cent reduction in vascular function. Past studies indicate a 1 per cent decrease in vascular function corresponds to a 13 per cent rise in cardiovascular disease risk. “The experiment was designed to simulate everyday stress that we might have to deal with at work or at home. When we get stressed, different things happen in the body, our heart rate and blood pressure go up, our blood vessels dilate and blood flow to the brain increases. We also know that the elasticity of our blood vessels – which is a measure of vascular function – declines following mental stress,” said the study’s first author, Rosalind Baynham of the University of Birmingham. Also read: World’s oldest disease-causing species found: It’s 407mn-year-old fungus Published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition and Nutrients, the study also highlighted that the intake of healthier foods, especially those rich in polyphenols like cocoa, berries, grapes, apples, and other fruits and vegetables, can prevent the decline in vascular function. (With inputs from agencies)

Turns out, comfort food isn't all that comforting to your heart

<p>Nick Kyrgios has revealed his gratitude to Andy Murray for spotting signs of self-harming as the Australian tennis star said he had an "addiction of pain" during a "dark" time in his life.</p>

<p>Kyrgios has opened up about the mental health struggles he suffered in recent years and revealed in a Netflix documentary he had spent time in a psychiatric hospital after losing at Wimbledon in 2019.</p>

<p>Three-time Grand Slam champion Murray has consistently been a supporter of Kyrgios, despite the latter being dogged by a series of on and off-court controversies,&nbsp;Last year Kyrgios' mother revealed how Murray had spotted the signs of her son self-harming before she did.</p>

<p>“Andy was always&nbsp;a big supporter of me,”&nbsp;Kyrgios&nbsp;told TalkTV in an interview with Piers Morgan. "As soon as I came on the tour, he kind of saw a work in progress and took me under his wing. Then he realised later in my career that I don’t think I was coachable or I was on my own path, but he was always someone that was looking out for me.</p>

<p>"He saw it (the self-harm) and he said, ‘What’s that on your arm?’ It was pretty bad at that stage. I'd be in the locker room and people would be able to see my self-harm. So I could only imagine what people would think when they were actually versing me on the tennis court. They're like, ‘Wow, this guy's mentally in a storm at the moment and he's still trying to play’.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-manchester-united-star-marouane-fellaini-bids-farewell-to-shandong-taishan-665000">Former Manchester United star Marouane Fellaini bids farewell to Shandong Taishan</a></strong></p>

<p>"Andy obviously was trying to give me advice on it. But I was just so stuck in my ways at that time that I didn’t listen. Obviously I’m very thankful. I thank him a lot." Kyrgios went on to describe the extent of his self-harming, even while playing successfully on the ATP Tour. "I think it was a year-and-a-half to two years of just complete harm. It was pretty dark to be honest," he added.</p>

<p>"I won tournaments on the professional tour, drinking every night, self-harming, burning things on my arm, cutting myself for fun. It became an addiction of pain. I hated myself. I hated waking up and being Nick Kyrgios." Since going public about his mental health struggles, Kyrgios has been contacted by others suffering similar situations through social media and described his role in helping them as the "most powerful thing" he has done in his career.</p>

<p>"That’s been the most powerful thing in my career; people coming to me with genuine issues," said the 2022 Wimbledon finalist. "They send me photos in my Instagram, direct messages, self-harming and genuinely wanting to commit suicide. I have conversations with these people. Sometimes I’ve had phone calls with these people. That’s making a real difference and I’m just really proud."</p>


Nick Kyrgios has revealed his gratitude to Andy Murray for spotting signs of self-harming as the Australian tennis star said he had an "addiction of pain" during a "dark" time in his life.

Nick Kyrgios has revealed his gratitude to Andy Murray for spotting signs of self-harming as the Australian tennis star said he had an "addiction of pain" during a "dark" time in his life. Kyrgios has opened up about the mental health struggles he suffered in recent years and revealed in a Netflix documentary he had spent time in a psychiatric hospital after losing at Wimbledon in 2019. Three-time Grand Slam champion Murray has consistently been a supporter of Kyrgios, despite the latter being dogged by a series of on and off-court controversies, Last year Kyrgios' mother revealed how Murray had spotted the signs of her son self-harming before she did. “Andy was always a big supporter of me,” Kyrgios told TalkTV in an interview with Piers Morgan. "As soon as I came on the tour, he kind of saw a work in progress and took me under his wing. Then he realised later in my career that I don’t think I was coachable or I was on my own path, but he was always someone that was looking out for me. "He saw it (the self-harm) and he said, ‘What’s that on your arm?’ It was pretty bad at that stage. I'd be in the locker room and people would be able to see my self-harm. So I could only imagine what people would think when they were actually versing me on the tennis court. They're like, ‘Wow, this guy's mentally in a storm at the moment and he's still trying to play’. Also Read: Former Manchester United star Marouane Fellaini bids farewell to Shandong Taishan "Andy obviously was trying to give me advice on it. But I was just so stuck in my ways at that time that I didn’t listen. Obviously I’m very thankful. I thank him a lot." Kyrgios went on to describe the extent of his self-harming, even while playing successfully on the ATP Tour. "I think it was a year-and-a-half to two years of just complete harm. It was pretty dark to be honest," he added. "I won tournaments on the professional tour, drinking every night, self-harming, burning things on my arm, cutting myself for fun. It became an addiction of pain. I hated myself. I hated waking up and being Nick Kyrgios." Since going public about his mental health struggles, Kyrgios has been contacted by others suffering similar situations through social media and described his role in helping them as the "most powerful thing" he has done in his career. "That’s been the most powerful thing in my career; people coming to me with genuine issues," said the 2022 Wimbledon finalist. "They send me photos in my Instagram, direct messages, self-harming and genuinely wanting to commit suicide. I have conversations with these people. Sometimes I’ve had phone calls with these people. That’s making a real difference and I’m just really proud."

Tennis: Nick Kyrgios thanks Andy Murray for helping him deal with mental health issues

<p><em><strong>Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised</strong></em></p>

<p>Last year, a staggering number of people — more than ever — died by suicide in the United States. As per provisional data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), figures dating back to at least 1941 revealed that in 2022, the highest-ever number of people killed themselves in the US.</p>

<h2><strong>Disturbing trend</strong></h2>

<p>In 2022, there was a disturbing trend of suicides. At least 49,449 lives were lost due to intentional self-harm. This means there were more than 14 suicidal deaths for every 100,000 people.</p>

<p>This is a three per cent increase of the 2021 numbers — 48,183 suicides.</p>

<p>Compared to women (5.9 per cent), men were four times more likely to kill themselves at 23.1 per cent. However, for women, suicide rates, especially for those aged 25 and older, saw an increase. Overall, the rate of suicides in women increased by four per cent, while for men the increase was half at two per cent.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/england-and-wales-living-in-dark-ages-poll-finds-1-in-7-hr-says-men-better-suited-to-top-jobs-664244">England and Wales 'living in dark ages,' poll finds 1-in-7 HRs says men better suited to top jobs</a></strong></p>

<p>The data found that there was a significant increase in suicides by people over 35 years of age. The rate was highest for people aged 75 and older.</p>

<p>Overall, the 49,449 suicides were "the highest number ever recorded in&nbsp;the United States,"&nbsp;as per the CDC.</p>

<p>However, the organisation adds, "The 2022 final number of suicides is likely to be higher as additional death&nbsp;certificates with pending causes of death may be determined to be suicides."</p>

<h2><strong>Suicides and the US</strong></h2>

<p>As per the report, in the US, suicides have risen "almost steadily" during the 21st century. Both males and females, across nearly every age and race and Hispanic-origin group, experienced the increase.</p>

<p>Owing to the disturbing trend, the US Surgeon General, in 2021, issued a call to&nbsp;action on a national strategy for suicide&nbsp;prevention as well as an advisory for&nbsp;youth mental health.</p>

<p>CNN citing a separate analysis of provisional CDC data by the Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence Solutions reports that in the year 2022, suicides by firearms reached a record high.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/working-for-over-55-hours-a-week-kills-800000-people-every-year-report-664257">Working for over 55 hours a week kills 800,000 people every year: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>As per the analysis, "the nation's overall gun suicide rate increased 1.6 per cent, reaching an all-time high".</p>

<p>"Gun suicides continued to reach all-time highs, increasing 1.6% from a previous record in 2021; 26,993 people died by gun suicide in 2022. While the increase in gun homicides has gained public awareness, less attention has been paid to the growing epidemic of gun suicides – which historically make up the majority of gun deaths. The gun suicide rate has steadily increased, nearly uninterrupted, since 2006. In 2021, it reached the highest levels since the CDC began recording such data in 1968; and this past year, in 2022, it surpassed that record. "</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong><em>If you or someone you know wants help for mental well-being, don't hesitate to talk to a professional. Aasra (Mumbai) 022-27546669, 98204 66726, Sneha (Chennai) 044-24640050, Sumaitri (Delhi) 011-23389090, Cooj (Goa) 0832- 2252525, Jeevan (Jamshedpur) 065-76453841, Pratheeksha (Kochi) 048-42448830, Maithri (Kochi) 0484-2540530, Roshni (Hyderabad) 040-66202000, Lifeline 033-64643267 (Kolkata), Parivarthan (Bangalore) +91 76766 02602</em></strong></p>


Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised Last year, a staggering number of people — more than ever — died by suicide in the United States.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised Last year, a staggering number of people — more than ever — died by suicide in the United States. As per provisional data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), figures dating back to at least 1941 revealed that in 2022, the highest-ever number of people killed themselves in the US. Disturbing trend In 2022, there was a disturbing trend of suicides. At least 49,449 lives were lost due to intentional self-harm. This means there were more than 14 suicidal deaths for every 100,000 people. This is a three per cent increase of the 2021 numbers — 48,183 suicides. Compared to women (5.9 per cent), men were four times more likely to kill themselves at 23.1 per cent. However, for women, suicide rates, especially for those aged 25 and older, saw an increase. Overall, the rate of suicides in women increased by four per cent, while for men the increase was half at two per cent. Also read | England and Wales 'living in dark ages,' poll finds 1-in-7 HRs says men better suited to top jobs The data found that there was a significant increase in suicides by people over 35 years of age. The rate was highest for people aged 75 and older. Overall, the 49,449 suicides were "the highest number ever recorded in the United States," as per the CDC. However, the organisation adds, "The 2022 final number of suicides is likely to be higher as additional death certificates with pending causes of death may be determined to be suicides." Suicides and the US As per the report, in the US, suicides have risen "almost steadily" during the 21st century. Both males and females, across nearly every age and race and Hispanic-origin group, experienced the increase. Owing to the disturbing trend, the US Surgeon General, in 2021, issued a call to action on a national strategy for suicide prevention as well as an advisory for youth mental health. CNN citing a separate analysis of provisional CDC data by the Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence Solutions reports that in the year 2022, suicides by firearms reached a record high. Also read | Working for over 55 hours a week kills 800,000 people every year: Report As per the analysis, "the nation's overall gun suicide rate increased 1.6 per cent, reaching an all-time high". "Gun suicides continued to reach all-time highs, increasing 1.6% from a previous record in 2021; 26,993 people died by gun suicide in 2022. While the increase in gun homicides has gained public awareness, less attention has been paid to the growing epidemic of gun suicides – which historically make up the majority of gun deaths. The gun suicide rate has steadily increased, nearly uninterrupted, since 2006. In 2021, it reached the highest levels since the CDC began recording such data in 1968; and this past year, in 2022, it surpassed that record. " (With inputs from agencies) If you or someone you know wants help for mental well-being, don't hesitate to talk to a professional. Aasra (Mumbai) 022-27546669, 98204 66726, Sneha (Chennai) 044-24640050, Sumaitri (Delhi) 011-23389090, Cooj (Goa) 0832- 2252525, Jeevan (Jamshedpur) 065-76453841, Pratheeksha (Kochi) 048-42448830, Maithri (Kochi) 0484-2540530, Roshni (Hyderabad) 040-66202000, Lifeline 033-64643267 (Kolkata), Parivarthan (Bangalore) +91 76766 02602

Disturbing trend: In 2022, more suicides than ever took place in the United States

Climate change is real this is a statement we have heard over the years but a byproduct stemming from these conversations is of climate anxiety. Much like climate change the anxiety around it is also a very real phenomenon. Google's data now shows that searches around climate anxiety have been on the rise.

Climate change and its impact on mental health

<p>Be it actors, singers or comedians, several artists all over the world have opened up about their struggles with mental health issues.</p>

<p>But as per a new study, out of all the creative communities in the world, magicians are exempted from the inner turmoil which most artists experience in their lifetime.</p>

<p>The research led by Aberystwyth University's psychology department attributed this to the level of difficulty scale of the several tricks performed by them.</p>

<p>Published in the journal BJPsych Open, the study measured the psychological traits of nearly 200 magicians and compared the results with the data received from other creative groups.</p>

<p>It found that the three pivotal measures of psychosis, delusions are less likely to occur in magicians than in artists, musicians and comedians.</p>

<p>They are also less likely to have hallucinations that mainly make it hard for people to focus.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-calls-out-space-enthusiasts-to-get-their-names-added-to-its-europa-clipper-658893">NASA calls out space enthusiasts to get their names added to its Europa Clipper</a></p>

<h2><strong>Association between creativity and psychopathology</strong></h2>

<p>Gil Greengross from Aberystwyth University, who led the study, said that this was the very first time a research was conducted to demonstrate an artistic group with lower scores on psychotic traits than the general population.</p>

<p>“Our research shows that magicians do not exhibit higher levels of mental disorders. The results demonstrate that the association between creativity and psychopathology is more complex than previously thought,” he said.</p>

<p>“This trait is valuable for many creative groups such as writers, poets and comedians whose acts are often edgy and challenge conventional wisdom. Magicians can be equally innovative and push the limits. However, many magicians perform familiar tricks or variations of them without feeling the need to innovate,” he added.</p>

<p>He then said that the main factor that distinguishes magicians from a majority of other performing artists is the precision that is required in their performances.</p>

<p>"Compared to other performers, it is more difficult to overcome errors - magic tricks largely being 'all or nothing' acts that culminate in an 'Aha' moment of surprise and awe."</p>

<p>"Failed magic tricks leave a greater impact than unfunny jokes and are harder to compensate for as they are few and far between," Dr Greengross added.</p>

<p>"In addition to requiring highly technical skills, regardless of the type of magic performed, the high stakes of magic performances make magicians a unique creative group to study amongst all artistic professions," he further said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Be it actors, singers or comedians, several artists all over the world have opened up about their struggles with mental health issues. But as per a new study, out of all the creative communities in the world, magicians are exempted from the inner turmoil which most artists experience in their lifetime.

Be it actors, singers or comedians, several artists all over the world have opened up about their struggles with mental health issues. But as per a new study, out of all the creative communities in the world, magicians are exempted from the inner turmoil which most artists experience in their lifetime. The research led by Aberystwyth University's psychology department attributed this to the level of difficulty scale of the several tricks performed by them. Published in the journal BJPsych Open, the study measured the psychological traits of nearly 200 magicians and compared the results with the data received from other creative groups. It found that the three pivotal measures of psychosis, delusions are less likely to occur in magicians than in artists, musicians and comedians. They are also less likely to have hallucinations that mainly make it hard for people to focus. Also read: NASA calls out space enthusiasts to get their names added to its Europa Clipper Association between creativity and psychopathology Gil Greengross from Aberystwyth University, who led the study, said that this was the very first time a research was conducted to demonstrate an artistic group with lower scores on psychotic traits than the general population. “Our research shows that magicians do not exhibit higher levels of mental disorders. The results demonstrate that the association between creativity and psychopathology is more complex than previously thought,” he said. “This trait is valuable for many creative groups such as writers, poets and comedians whose acts are often edgy and challenge conventional wisdom. Magicians can be equally innovative and push the limits. However, many magicians perform familiar tricks or variations of them without feeling the need to innovate,” he added. He then said that the main factor that distinguishes magicians from a majority of other performing artists is the precision that is required in their performances. "Compared to other performers, it is more difficult to overcome errors - magic tricks largely being 'all or nothing' acts that culminate in an 'Aha' moment of surprise and awe." "Failed magic tricks leave a greater impact than unfunny jokes and are harder to compensate for as they are few and far between," Dr Greengross added. "In addition to requiring highly technical skills, regardless of the type of magic performed, the high stakes of magic performances make magicians a unique creative group to study amongst all artistic professions," he further said. (With inputs from agencies)

Magicians less prone to mental illness as compared to other artists, suggests study

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidTs79pVTuz9t4" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Genetic adaptations from humans who lived tens of thousands of years ago might have made modern-day humans prone to mental health issues like depression, says a new study.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a study published in&nbsp;<em>PLOS Genetics</em>, modern humans have received a part of their genetic heritage from Denisovans, which makes them more vulnerable to mental health problems.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Researchers in Spain followed the prior study that focused on a variant of the gene SLC30A9 that might have evolved through positive selection, especially in East Asian populations.</p>

<p>The gene regulates zinc by transporting it across cell membranes in the body. Zinc is essential for the healthy growth and functioning of our neurological and immune systems. It is also crucial to maintain the excitability of the nervous system and has a connection to mental health.</p>

<p>However, the adaptation of these genes in modern humans tweaks the regulation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/gods-of-chaos-jupiter-protects-us-but-similar-gas-giants-do-this-to-earth-like-planets-654247" target="_blank">'Gods of chaos': Jupiter protects us, but similar gas giants do THIS to Earth-like planets</a></p>

<p>Although previous studies also indicated the association of the SLC30A9 genetic variant with a greater risk of depression and mental health issues, researchers are yet to make solid claims about the connections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rubén Vicente, a molecular biologist from Pompeu Fabra University, said, "In the future, expanding this study to animal models could shed light on this predisposition to suffering from mental illnesses."</p>

<p>Although the gene did not match with Neanderthals, a close comparison with the Denisovan gene revealed a match for the gene SLC30A9.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ana Roca-Umbert, an evolutionary biologist from Pompeu Fabra University, said, "Through genomic analysis, we noted that the genetic variant observed came from our interbreeding with archaic humans in the past, possibly the Denisovans."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nisar-in-a-first-nasa-and-isro-to-collaboratively-launch-earth-observing-satellite-in-2024-654044" target="_blank">NISAR: In a first, NASA and ISRO to collaboratively launch earth-observing satellite in 2024</a></p>

<p>The team also carried out lab experiments, which showed how the variation connected to the differences in cellular structure, like mitochondria, regulated zinc and influenced metabolism.</p>

<p>Researchers also suspect the Denisovan variant might have protected us against cold climates. Jorge Garcia-Calleja, another evolutionary biologist, said, "The change was beneficial and proved a selective advantage for humans." Thus, the SLC30A9 has reached the current population, she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the researchers, there's more to dig into how our genes evolve and affect us. However, a recent study reveals the genetic links with the past and is one of the most widespread and significant.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Genetic adaptations from humans who lived tens of thousands of years ago might have made modern-day humans prone to mental health issues like depression, says a new study.

Genetic adaptations from humans who lived tens of thousands of years ago might have made modern-day humans prone to mental health issues like depression, says a new study. According to a study published in PLOS Genetics, modern humans have received a part of their genetic heritage from Denisovans, which makes them more vulnerable to mental health problems. Researchers in Spain followed the prior study that focused on a variant of the gene SLC30A9 that might have evolved through positive selection, especially in East Asian populations. The gene regulates zinc by transporting it across cell membranes in the body. Zinc is essential for the healthy growth and functioning of our neurological and immune systems. It is also crucial to maintain the excitability of the nervous system and has a connection to mental health. However, the adaptation of these genes in modern humans tweaks the regulation. ALSO READ | 'Gods of chaos': Jupiter protects us, but similar gas giants do THIS to Earth-like planets Although previous studies also indicated the association of the SLC30A9 genetic variant with a greater risk of depression and mental health issues, researchers are yet to make solid claims about the connections. Rubén Vicente, a molecular biologist from Pompeu Fabra University, said, "In the future, expanding this study to animal models could shed light on this predisposition to suffering from mental illnesses." Although the gene did not match with Neanderthals, a close comparison with the Denisovan gene revealed a match for the gene SLC30A9. Ana Roca-Umbert, an evolutionary biologist from Pompeu Fabra University, said, "Through genomic analysis, we noted that the genetic variant observed came from our interbreeding with archaic humans in the past, possibly the Denisovans." ALSO READ | NISAR: In a first, NASA and ISRO to collaboratively launch earth-observing satellite in 2024 The team also carried out lab experiments, which showed how the variation connected to the differences in cellular structure, like mitochondria, regulated zinc and influenced metabolism. Researchers also suspect the Denisovan variant might have protected us against cold climates. Jorge Garcia-Calleja, another evolutionary biologist, said, "The change was beneficial and proved a selective advantage for humans." Thus, the SLC30A9 has reached the current population, she added. According to the researchers, there's more to dig into how our genes evolve and affect us. However, a recent study reveals the genetic links with the past and is one of the most widespread and significant. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

We can now blame our ancestors for our mental health issues, as per new study

<p>Researchers at the University of Cambridge in the UK have made significant progress in improving the diagnosis of bipolar disorder. They have developed a simple blood test that, when combined with an online psychiatric assessment, offers a more accurate diagnosis for this mental health condition.</p>

<p>The blood test developed by the University of Cambridge team has shown the ability to diagnose bipolar disorder in up to 30 per cent&nbsp;of patients when used alone.</p>

<p>However, the diagnostic potential of the blood test is greatly amplified when it is used in conjunction with a digital mental health assessment.</p>

<p>By combining these two methods, researchers have been able to significantly improve the diagnosis of bipolar disorder.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/his-own-body-attacked-it-second-person-to-get-pig-heart-transplant-dies-653843">Also read |&nbsp;‘His own body attacked it': Second person to get pig heart transplant dies</a></p>

<h2><strong>Distinguishing between major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder</strong></h2>

<p>Bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder share some overlapping symptoms, which can make differentiation challenging.</p>

<p>The incorporation of biomarker testing not only aids in identifying bipolar disorder but also helps physicians distinguish between these two conditions.</p>

<p>This is crucial because each condition requires different pharmacological treatments.</p>

<p>While the blood test is still in the proof-of-concept stage, the results from the study, published in the journal JAMA Psychiatry, indicate its potential as an effective complement to existing psychiatric diagnostic methods.</p>

<p>Additionally, this innovative approach offers the potential to enhance our understanding of the biological underpinnings of mental health conditions.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/individuals-with-high-compassion-face-fewer-sleep-problems-study-653782">Also read |&nbsp;Having sleep troubles? Try being compassionate to those around you</a></p>

<p>Bipolar disorder affects about one percent of the global population, which amounts to as many as 80 million people worldwide. A significant issue is that nearly 40 per cent&nbsp;of patients with bipolar disorder are misdiagnosed as having major depressive disorder.&nbsp;</p>

<p>People with bipolar disorder experience fluctuations between periods of low mood and high mood or mania. However, they typically seek medical help when they are in a low mood state.</p>

<p>This tendency often results in the misdiagnosis of bipolar disorder as major depressive disorder. The current diagnostic process often involves a full psychiatric assessment, which is considered the most effective method.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Researchers at the University of Cambridge in the UK have made significant progress in improving the diagnosis of bipolar disorder. They have developed a simple blood test that, when combined with an online psychiatric assessment, offers a more accurate diagnosis for this mental health condition.

Researchers at the University of Cambridge in the UK have made significant progress in improving the diagnosis of bipolar disorder. They have developed a simple blood test that, when combined with an online psychiatric assessment, offers a more accurate diagnosis for this mental health condition. The blood test developed by the University of Cambridge team has shown the ability to diagnose bipolar disorder in up to 30 per cent of patients when used alone. However, the diagnostic potential of the blood test is greatly amplified when it is used in conjunction with a digital mental health assessment. By combining these two methods, researchers have been able to significantly improve the diagnosis of bipolar disorder. Also read | ‘His own body attacked it': Second person to get pig heart transplant dies Distinguishing between major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder Bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder share some overlapping symptoms, which can make differentiation challenging. The incorporation of biomarker testing not only aids in identifying bipolar disorder but also helps physicians distinguish between these two conditions. This is crucial because each condition requires different pharmacological treatments. While the blood test is still in the proof-of-concept stage, the results from the study, published in the journal JAMA Psychiatry, indicate its potential as an effective complement to existing psychiatric diagnostic methods. Additionally, this innovative approach offers the potential to enhance our understanding of the biological underpinnings of mental health conditions. Also read | Having sleep troubles? Try being compassionate to those around you Bipolar disorder affects about one percent of the global population, which amounts to as many as 80 million people worldwide. A significant issue is that nearly 40 per cent of patients with bipolar disorder are misdiagnosed as having major depressive disorder. People with bipolar disorder experience fluctuations between periods of low mood and high mood or mania. However, they typically seek medical help when they are in a low mood state. This tendency often results in the misdiagnosis of bipolar disorder as major depressive disorder. The current diagnostic process often involves a full psychiatric assessment, which is considered the most effective method. (With inputs from agencies)

A simple blood test will now be able to diagnose bipolar disorder. Here's how

<p>Dozens of US states, on Tuesday (Oct 24) filed a lawsuit against Instagram’s parent company Meta alleging that the social media platform contributes to the youth mental health crisis, is profiting “from children’s pain,” and misleading people about the safety of its platforms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The lawsuit comes after a nationwide bipartisan investigation found that Meta has been “harming” children and teens due to the addictive nature of their social media platforms.</p>

<p>The latest lawsuit is among a string of legal actions against social media companies on behalf of children and teens.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the lawsuit</strong></h2>

<p>There are a total of more than 40 US states which are suing Meta but 33 of them have filed their complaint in a federal lawsuit as opposed to others which have sought to fight their case in local courts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In seeking to maximize its financial gains, Meta has repeatedly misled the public about the substantial dangers of its Social Media Platforms,” said the joint lawsuit filed by more than 30 states, including California and Illinois in the city of Oakland.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added, “Meta has harnessed powerful and unprecedented technologies to entice, engage, and ultimately ensnare youth and teens.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The lawsuit argues that Meta has exploited young users by creating a business model designed to make them spend as much time as possible on the platform despite harm to their health.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It also accused Meta of knowingly inducing addictive and compulsive social media use despite knowing that teenage brains are susceptible to the need for approval in the form of “likes” from other users about their content.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Meta did not disclose that its algorithms were designed to capitalize on young users’ dopamine responses and create an addictive cycle of engagement,” said the complaint.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The lawsuit also alleges Meta has violated a law banning the collection of data about children under the age of 13.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Kids and teenagers are suffering from record levels of poor mental health and social media companies like Meta are to blame,” said New York Attorney General Letitia James in a statement announcing the suit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The suit has sought a variety of remedies, including substantial civil penalties. According to James, it also urges the federal court to order Meta to stop manipulative tactics.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Meta is ‘disappointed’</strong></h2>

<p>Meta has since responded to the lawsuit and said that it was “disappointed”&nbsp;that the attorneys general have chosen to single them out instead of seeking industry-wide solutions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Instagram’s parent company also said that it has developed more than 30 tools in its apps to support teenage users, and made it easier for parents to “shape” online activity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The lawsuit is said to have stemmed from a nationwide investigation announced in November of 2021. "Research has shown that young people’s use of Meta's social media platforms is associated with depression, anxiety, insomnia, interference with education and daily life, and many other negative outcomes," said the complaint.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Our bipartisan investigation has arrived at a solemn conclusion: Meta has been harming our children and teens, cultivating addiction to boost corporate profits,” said California attorney general Rob Bonta, in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added, “With today's lawsuit, we are drawing the line.” The investigation came after Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen leaked more than 20,000 pages of internal documents sparking criticism of the social media giant putting profit before the security of its users.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Dozens of US states, on Tuesday (Oct 24) filed a lawsuit against Instagram’s parent company Meta alleging that the social media platform contributes to the youth mental health crisis, is profiting “from children’s pain,” and misleading people about the safety of its platforms.

Dozens of US states, on Tuesday (Oct 24) filed a lawsuit against Instagram’s parent company Meta alleging that the social media platform contributes to the youth mental health crisis, is profiting “from children’s pain,” and misleading people about the safety of its platforms. The lawsuit comes after a nationwide bipartisan investigation found that Meta has been “harming” children and teens due to the addictive nature of their social media platforms. The latest lawsuit is among a string of legal actions against social media companies on behalf of children and teens. About the lawsuit There are a total of more than 40 US states which are suing Meta but 33 of them have filed their complaint in a federal lawsuit as opposed to others which have sought to fight their case in local courts. “In seeking to maximize its financial gains, Meta has repeatedly misled the public about the substantial dangers of its Social Media Platforms,” said the joint lawsuit filed by more than 30 states, including California and Illinois in the city of Oakland. It added, “Meta has harnessed powerful and unprecedented technologies to entice, engage, and ultimately ensnare youth and teens.” The lawsuit argues that Meta has exploited young users by creating a business model designed to make them spend as much time as possible on the platform despite harm to their health. It also accused Meta of knowingly inducing addictive and compulsive social media use despite knowing that teenage brains are susceptible to the need for approval in the form of “likes” from other users about their content. “Meta did not disclose that its algorithms were designed to capitalize on young users’ dopamine responses and create an addictive cycle of engagement,” said the complaint. The lawsuit also alleges Meta has violated a law banning the collection of data about children under the age of 13. “Kids and teenagers are suffering from record levels of poor mental health and social media companies like Meta are to blame,” said New York Attorney General Letitia James in a statement announcing the suit. The suit has sought a variety of remedies, including substantial civil penalties. According to James, it also urges the federal court to order Meta to stop manipulative tactics. Meta is ‘disappointed’ Meta has since responded to the lawsuit and said that it was “disappointed” that the attorneys general have chosen to single them out instead of seeking industry-wide solutions. Instagram’s parent company also said that it has developed more than 30 tools in its apps to support teenage users, and made it easier for parents to “shape” online activity. The lawsuit is said to have stemmed from a nationwide investigation announced in November of 2021. "Research has shown that young people’s use of Meta's social media platforms is associated with depression, anxiety, insomnia, interference with education and daily life, and many other negative outcomes," said the complaint. “Our bipartisan investigation has arrived at a solemn conclusion: Meta has been harming our children and teens, cultivating addiction to boost corporate profits,” said California attorney general Rob Bonta, in a statement. It added, “With today's lawsuit, we are drawing the line.” The investigation came after Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen leaked more than 20,000 pages of internal documents sparking criticism of the social media giant putting profit before the security of its users. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Over 30 US states sue Meta, accusing it of fuelling a youth mental health crisis

<p>As the Israel-Palestine conflict unfolds, it's the silent suffering of individuals in Gaza and Israel that often remains hidden. In Gaza, where perpetual violence has become a grim reality, a study from 2017 reveals the staggering extent of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).</p>

<p>Approximately 37 per cent of adults in Gaza meet the criteria for a PTSD diagnosis. The symptoms, including disrupted sleep, a constant state of alertness, and emotional numbness, directly result from the ongoing atrocities – the demolition of homes, oppressive policing, unlawful killings, detention without trial, and torture. The people here are not just battling the visible scars but also grappling with the invisible ones, trapped in a state of "learned helplessness" that can lead to depression.</p>

<p><b>The widening ripple effect</b></p>

<p>The impact of the conflict isn't confined within the borders of Gaza and Israel; it extends far beyond. The psychological repercussions touch both veterans and civilians in Israel. In recent years, bureaucratic obstacles and insufficient funding have left many veterans without the support they need. At least ten veterans have tragically taken their own lives in the past two years. The burden of PTSD is not limited to those who have served; it extends to a significant portion of the civilian population.</p>

<p>The psychological impact of this ongoing conflict reverberates globally. People with ties to the region and those concerned about the effects of war worldwide are also experiencing indirect repercussions. Consuming traumatic news through various media channels has detrimental effects. Driven by the power of visual imagery, these stories can become intrusive, leading to anxiety, depression, and acute stress reactions.</p>

<p><b>Children caught in the crossfire</b></p>

<p>The conflict's psychological toll does not discriminate by age. Children living amid the turmoil face profound emotional challenges. The constant state of uncertainty, with the looming threat of injury or loss of loved ones, leaves indelible scars. Signs of trauma in children manifest in various ways – regression, anxiety, emotional upheaval, and difficulties in understanding and coping with the ongoing conflict. The impact on their young minds is substantial and potentially long-lasting.</p>

<p><b>The hidden costs</b></p>

<p>The Israel-Palestine conflict underscores that the price of war extends beyond the physical destruction and casualties. It leaves a deep and enduring mark on the mental well-being of those directly and indirectly involved. The consequences of this invisible suffering, if left unaddressed, could impair not only individual lives but also the broader resilience of communities. It's a stark reminder that providing the necessary support and resources to help individuals and communities heal from the trauma of war is an urgent and vital endeavour.</p>


As the Israel-Palestine conflict unfolds, it's the silent suffering of individuals in Gaza and Israel that often remains hidden. In Gaza, where perpetual violence has become a grim reality, a study from 2017 reveals the staggering extent of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

As the Israel-Palestine conflict unfolds, it's the silent suffering of individuals in Gaza and Israel that often remains hidden. In Gaza, where perpetual violence has become a grim reality, a study from 2017 reveals the staggering extent of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Approximately 37 per cent of adults in Gaza meet the criteria for a PTSD diagnosis. The symptoms, including disrupted sleep, a constant state of alertness, and emotional numbness, directly result from the ongoing atrocities – the demolition of homes, oppressive policing, unlawful killings, detention without trial, and torture. The people here are not just battling the visible scars but also grappling with the invisible ones, trapped in a state of "learned helplessness" that can lead to depression. The widening ripple effect The impact of the conflict isn't confined within the borders of Gaza and Israel; it extends far beyond. The psychological repercussions touch both veterans and civilians in Israel. In recent years, bureaucratic obstacles and insufficient funding have left many veterans without the support they need. At least ten veterans have tragically taken their own lives in the past two years. The burden of PTSD is not limited to those who have served; it extends to a significant portion of the civilian population. The psychological impact of this ongoing conflict reverberates globally. People with ties to the region and those concerned about the effects of war worldwide are also experiencing indirect repercussions. Consuming traumatic news through various media channels has detrimental effects. Driven by the power of visual imagery, these stories can become intrusive, leading to anxiety, depression, and acute stress reactions. Children caught in the crossfire The conflict's psychological toll does not discriminate by age. Children living amid the turmoil face profound emotional challenges. The constant state of uncertainty, with the looming threat of injury or loss of loved ones, leaves indelible scars. Signs of trauma in children manifest in various ways – regression, anxiety, emotional upheaval, and difficulties in understanding and coping with the ongoing conflict. The impact on their young minds is substantial and potentially long-lasting. The hidden costs The Israel-Palestine conflict underscores that the price of war extends beyond the physical destruction and casualties. It leaves a deep and enduring mark on the mental well-being of those directly and indirectly involved. The consequences of this invisible suffering, if left unaddressed, could impair not only individual lives but also the broader resilience of communities. It's a stark reminder that providing the necessary support and resources to help individuals and communities heal from the trauma of war is an urgent and vital endeavour.

Caught in conflict: The invisible scars of war in Gaza & Israel

<p>"Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls, the most massive characters are seared with scars," said Lebanese-American writer and poet Khalil Gibran, a thought that resonates with several of us in a world where suffering has become commonplace. In this complex human existence, our mental health is a thread that weaves through every aspect of our lives. It is both a reflection of our inner strength and the scars we bear as we face the challenges that life presents.</p>

<p>These challenges have become more complex over time. Despite people being more expressive about their feelings and acknowledging the role our mental health plays in our lives, many still continue to suffer in silence. According to the United Nations, mental health problems, such as depression are one of the leading causes of disability.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-the-mind-heart-connection-how-mental-wellness-benefits-your-heart-638602"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;The Mind-Heart Connection! How mental wellness benefits your heart</strong></a></p>

<p>Suicide has also emerged as the fourth leading cause of death among 15-29-year-olds, and in India, an analysis by the International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS), Deonar found that suicide rates are 2.5 times higher among men than women.</p>

<p>To spread awareness about this, every year on October 10, the global community observes World Mental Health Day. This provides an opportunity for people and communities to improve knowledge, raise awareness and drive actions that promote and protect everyone’s mental health as a universal human right.</p>

<p>To gain insights into problems related to mental health, WION talked to Dr Anjhula Mya Bais, a globally lauded international psychology and trauma specialist who has been awarded some of the American Psychological Association's highest citations.</p>

<p>We asked Dr Anjhula, who in 2019 was named World Economic Forum Global Leader, about the impact of "comparison culture" on mental health and how can individuals cultivate healthier attitudes towards their online presence.</p>

<p>She said, "The compare and despair phenomena impact mental health in great ways. It is a distortion of reality, where everyone is 'putting their best foot forward' but really it is smoke and mirrors. Reality is much less glamorous than it appears. People devote untold amounts of time, energy, and negative emotions trying to keep up with, compete or top a fictional reality. Healthy mental approaches mean detoxing from media, uninstalling your apps for three weeks, and purposely curating your social media feeds. You can still follow people to be polite but it doesn't mean you will see their content."<br />
&nbsp;<br />
"This could be a very good thing for mental health. The only person to compete with is yourself and aim for incremental improvements whilst being proud of yourself. Better than you were yesterday, less than you will be tomorrow!"</p>

<p>Dr Anjhula, who is currently Chair of the International Board of Amnesty International worldwide and is the first psychologist, the first Indian and the first person from Malaysia to hold this post, also addressed the increasing number of influencer videos showing "signs of anxiety" or other mental health issues on social media.</p>

<p>She said: "As a society, we have to ask what is the threshold for being considered an influencer? What exactly are they influencing? What is their source of credibility? Would you agree to heart surgery by someone on TikTok who shows a video on how to do it? Similarly, only follow proper, credentialed, verified mental health experts on social media. Otherwise, there is the risk of misinformation and disinformation."</p>

<p>"We should be aware, but not create chaos and issues that don't exist where everything becomes a source of anxiety and everyone is self-diagnosing," she added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-self-improvement-strategies-8-steps-to-mental-well-being-638895"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Self-improvement strategies: 8 steps to mental well-being</strong></a></p>

<p>Suicidal thoughts have unfortunately become a haunting reality today. One question that you may have is are there warning signs that someone might be struggling with suicidal thoughts?</p>

<p>As per the leading Indian psychologist, "changes in eating, sleep, weight patterns. Feelings of depression, guilt, hopelessness, feeling they are a burden," are some signs to look out for.</p>

<p>"Saying goodbye and giving belongings away could also be a sign," she said, warning that "it is important to know that some people may not exhibit any of these signs and still die by suicide."</p>

<p>"A nation's mental health is its wealth. Everything stems from there," says Dr Anjhula. She said that the 'destigmitisation' of mental health problems is necessary.</p>

<p>"Instead of building grandiose statutes of politicians and other entities, it's time to plug national and fiscal resources towards mental health programs that are culturally appropriate and make sense in an Indian context."</p>

<p>As per Dr Anjhula, empirical studies on suicide have shown that people often regret their decision to commit suicide, "the minute it starts happening and that the dark impulse passes two minutes or so after it started."</p>

<p>She suggests "waiting it out" and says that people must remember that even if they feel overwhelmed, "the feeling is not a fact."</p>

<p>Taking a drastic step like suicide isn't about "cowardice but being overwhelmed and losing the ability to see the bigger picture, in that moment".</p>

<p>"The impulse is so strong," she adds.</p>

<p>"Life can be very tough at times, the impulse is something we should approach with curiosity and learn how not to give into the impulse," she notes, adding that societal judgement around mental health problems and self-harm "paradoxically drives people to suicide ideation."</p>

<p>"I have never met a person that wanted their life to end, they wanted the pain to end. A subtle but important difference," she remarked.</p>

<p>"I hope every family and friend can have conversations at home, in school, and on public transport about mental health, normalising it."</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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"Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls, the most massive characters are seared with scars," said Lebanese-American writer and poet Khalil Gibran, a thought that resonates with several of us in a world where suffering has become commonplace.

"Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls, the most massive characters are seared with scars," said Lebanese-American writer and poet Khalil Gibran, a thought that resonates with several of us in a world where suffering has become commonplace. In this complex human existence, our mental health is a thread that weaves through every aspect of our lives. It is both a reflection of our inner strength and the scars we bear as we face the challenges that life presents. These challenges have become more complex over time. Despite people being more expressive about their feelings and acknowledging the role our mental health plays in our lives, many still continue to suffer in silence. According to the United Nations, mental health problems, such as depression are one of the leading causes of disability. Also read | The Mind-Heart Connection! How mental wellness benefits your heart Suicide has also emerged as the fourth leading cause of death among 15-29-year-olds, and in India, an analysis by the International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS), Deonar found that suicide rates are 2.5 times higher among men than women. To spread awareness about this, every year on October 10, the global community observes World Mental Health Day. This provides an opportunity for people and communities to improve knowledge, raise awareness and drive actions that promote and protect everyone’s mental health as a universal human right. To gain insights into problems related to mental health, WION talked to Dr Anjhula Mya Bais, a globally lauded international psychology and trauma specialist who has been awarded some of the American Psychological Association's highest citations. We asked Dr Anjhula, who in 2019 was named World Economic Forum Global Leader, about the impact of "comparison culture" on mental health and how can individuals cultivate healthier attitudes towards their online presence. She said, "The compare and despair phenomena impact mental health in great ways. It is a distortion of reality, where everyone is 'putting their best foot forward' but really it is smoke and mirrors. Reality is much less glamorous than it appears. People devote untold amounts of time, energy, and negative emotions trying to keep up with, compete or top a fictional reality. Healthy mental approaches mean detoxing from media, uninstalling your apps for three weeks, and purposely curating your social media feeds. You can still follow people to be polite but it doesn't mean you will see their content." "This could be a very good thing for mental health. The only person to compete with is yourself and aim for incremental improvements whilst being proud of yourself. Better than you were yesterday, less than you will be tomorrow!" Dr Anjhula, who is currently Chair of the International Board of Amnesty International worldwide and is the first psychologist, the first Indian and the first person from Malaysia to hold this post, also addressed the increasing number of influencer videos showing "signs of anxiety" or other mental health issues on social media. She said: "As a society, we have to ask what is the threshold for being considered an influencer? What exactly are they influencing? What is their source of credibility? Would you agree to heart surgery by someone on TikTok who shows a video on how to do it? Similarly, only follow proper, credentialed, verified mental health experts on social media. Otherwise, there is the risk of misinformation and disinformation." "We should be aware, but not create chaos and issues that don't exist where everything becomes a source of anxiety and everyone is self-diagnosing," she added. Also read | Self-improvement strategies: 8 steps to mental well-being Suicidal thoughts have unfortunately become a haunting reality today. One question that you may have is are there warning signs that someone might be struggling with suicidal thoughts? As per the leading Indian psychologist, "changes in eating, sleep, weight patterns. Feelings of depression, guilt, hopelessness, feeling they are a burden," are some signs to look out for. "Saying goodbye and giving belongings away could also be a sign," she said, warning that "it is important to know that some people may not exhibit any of these signs and still die by suicide." "A nation's mental health is its wealth. Everything stems from there," says Dr Anjhula. She said that the 'destigmitisation' of mental health problems is necessary. "Instead of building grandiose statutes of politicians and other entities, it's time to plug national and fiscal resources towards mental health programs that are culturally appropriate and make sense in an Indian context." As per Dr Anjhula, empirical studies on suicide have shown that people often regret their decision to commit suicide, "the minute it starts happening and that the dark impulse passes two minutes or so after it started." She suggests "waiting it out" and says that people must remember that even if they feel overwhelmed, "the feeling is not a fact." Taking a drastic step like suicide isn't about "cowardice but being overwhelmed and losing the ability to see the bigger picture, in that moment". "The impulse is so strong," she adds. "Life can be very tough at times, the impulse is something we should approach with curiosity and learn how not to give into the impulse," she notes, adding that societal judgement around mental health problems and self-harm "paradoxically drives people to suicide ideation." "I have never met a person that wanted their life to end, they wanted the pain to end. A subtle but important difference," she remarked. "I hope every family and friend can have conversations at home, in school, and on public transport about mental health, normalising it." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Exclusive | World Mental Health Day 2023: Breaking the silence and the need for destigmatisation

When you don't answer calls when your phone is ringing, do you feel anxiety or stress? Do you worry about who is calling you or what you are going to talk? If you experience these things, then the chances are that you could be suffering from what is known as phone anxiety!

World Mental Health Day: Phone anxiety is a real problem

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