Mind Under Siege

By Jahangeer Ganaie

Amid a mounting mental health crisis across Jammu and Kashmir, an increasing number of people are beginning to seek treatment, signaling a slow yet significant shift in awareness and acceptance.

Official data from the Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag shows that over 2.7 lakh patients with mental health issues have been treated at the hospital in the past five years. Similarly, the Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (IMHANS) in Srinagar reported that nearly two lakh patients sought care last year alone.

“As the only tertiary-level psychiatric hospital in the region, the IMHANS catered to around two lakh patients last year, including those seeking help for both general mental health problems and substance-use disorders,” said Dr Yasir Rather, Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at IMHANS. “This number itself reflects the growing demand for accessible, affordable, and stigma-free care.”

Dr Rather emphasized that mental health care must not be viewed as a privilege limited to times of peace but as an essential service in times of crisis.

“In Kashmir, where people continue to face layers of uncertainty, recent war-like situations, and natural disasters like floods and earthquakes, social stress and mental health challenges are deeply woven into daily life,” he said. “We must work collectively to strengthen community-based mental health services, integrate psychological support into disaster and emergency response, and ensure that no individual, regardless of geography or background, is left behind when it comes to care.”

He added, “Let this day serve as a call to action: to make mental health services accessible in every setting, protect recovery as a human right, and build systems that stand firm even in crisis.”

Despite growing awareness, doctors warn that the scale of mental health problems in the region remains alarming. Depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and substance abuse are among the most commonly reported conditions.

“Recognising the warning signs in people who have suicidal thoughts and ensuring help through positive support networks is a moral responsibility for all of us,” a senior psychiatrist said, stressing that early intervention can save lives.

The issue of drug abuse, particularly among youth, has emerged as one of the gravest social concerns. “The percentage of indulgence in drugs has seen a dangerous upsurge in recent years. Young people, in particular, are falling prey to various kinds of social evils—the most damaging being substance abuse, which destroys both purpose and potential. It’s time to act—now or never,” the expert warned.

Health professionals recommend several practical steps to maintain emotional well-being. “Engage in at least one physical activity daily, as it helps release endorphins that elevate mood. Seek help from mental health professionals when needed. Avoid negative coping mechanisms such as smoking, self-harm, or social isolation. Also, set emotional and occupational boundaries to prevent burnout,” doctors advised.

They also stressed that mental illnesses are closely intertwined with multiple social and behavioural issues, including suicidal tendencies. “Drug addiction remains a major social menace that needs urgent and compassionate redressal,” another expert noted.

Experts attribute the higher prevalence of mental health issues in Jammu and Kashmir to a combination of political turmoil, prolonged stress, and vulnerability arising from social factors. “The stigma surrounding mental disorders, lack of awareness, and delayed treatment-seeking behaviour make the situation worse. We need a joint, sustained effort to change this,” a mental health specialist observed.

Long-term measures to improve community mental health were highlighted as critical. Doctors called for creating supportive living conditions and promoting early childhood development. “Interventions such as preschool psychosocial programs, nutritional support, and early emotional care can lay strong foundations for a healthier society,” they said.

Strengthening primary healthcare systems to manage mental health disorders is equally crucial. “Mental health treatment should be available at the grassroots level with affordable diagnostic tests and low-cost therapies,” experts suggested.

They also urged adopting a compassionate approach towards drug addicts, focusing on understanding their struggles and addressing root causes rather than relying solely on punitive measures.

Emerging stressors such as rapid urbanisation, migration, and climate change further complicate the mental health landscape. “Economic and social vulnerabilities increase the risk of depression, anxiety, and alcohol use. Displacements caused by extreme weather events and climate-related distress can have long-term mental health impacts on communities,” doctors said.

Experts agreed that reversing the rising trend of mental health disorders in Jammu and Kashmir requires a multi-dimensional approach, engaging families, schools, community leaders, and healthcare institutions. Only through collective responsibility, early intervention, and compassionate care can the region hope to tackle this growing crisis and provide meaningful support to those struggling with mental illness. (KNO)