Cities and towns that previously kept quiet about the issue are increasingly allowing conversations, projects, and services related to mental health. Siliguri, a city that is expanding quickly, is no different.
Because of its diversified population, rapid expansion, and distinctive sociocultural setting, this city in Northern West Bengal is starting to realize how important mental health awareness is and why it can no longer be overlooked.
If you think you need to consult a doctor for ongoing stress or mood-related issues, you might seek advice from the best psychiatrist in Siliguri City. You will get to know about the growing importance of mental health awareness in Siliguri, its relevance, available resources, difficulties, etc.,in this blog.
Why Mental Health Awareness is So Important
Mental health problems were traditionally viewed as less important than physical health issues. On the other hand, mental health has a direct impact on how people feel, think, and act in day-to-day situations.
Thus, stress, anxiety, despair, and burnout are among the conditions that are growing more prevalent, even in compact cities like Siliguri.
You should know that productivity and mental health are related. Individuals who are dealing with untreated mental or emotional health difficulties frequently struggle to focus at work or in their academics.
Relationships are affected, troubling day-to-day life. Mood disorders, stress, and anxiety can weaken social and familial ties. Here, asking for help, expert advice, or talking to a mental health expert always helps.
Chronic stress, ongoing anxiousness, or depression have been linked to heart issues, decreased immunity, and other health consequences, according to studies.
Campaigns for awareness and more open conversations about mental health are being fueled by this expanding knowledge.
Changes in City Lifestyleand Its Impact
Over the last two decades, Siliguri has undergone a significant urbanization process. It began as a quiet trading town but has now developed into a thriving commercial center that links Sikkim, the northeastern states, and nearby nations like Bhutan and Nepal.
But besides progress comes mental and emotional stress:
- Increased Work Pressure: Professionals, business owners, and employees in the city frequently deal with lengthy workdays and stress at work.
- Academic Competition: Students are under tremendous pressure to do well as they get ready for college and competitive tests.
- Urban Stress: Everyday annoyance is exacerbated by noise, traffic jams, and growing living expenses.
- Family Dynamics: People who migrate for employment or have nuclear families frequently have few support networks.
Why Coming Out of Stigma is Important
The stigma associated with mental health is one of the main issues in Siliguri city, as it is in many other parts of India. A lot of people still think that having mental health problems is not actually necessary or something to be embarrassed about.
As a result, people often put off getting help until things get worse.However, things are evolving, and awareness efforts in companies, educational institutions, and other settings are important.
These are helping people realize that mental health issues are as real as physical problems. The practice of seeing a psychologist in Siliguri or a counselornear you is gradually gaining popularity, particularly among younger adults.
Growing Resources for Mental Health in Siliguri City
More resources than ever before are available today in Siliguri to promote emotional and mental health:
- Psychologists and Counseling Centers: Professional counseling, therapy, and psychiatric support are currently offered by a number of clinics in the city.
- Hospitals: Healthcare centers with departments dedicated to mental health. Siliguri's major hospitals have begun to offer mental health services as part of their general medical care.
- School Counseling Programs: A lot of schools are employing counselors to help students because they understand how important mental health is.
- Community Awareness Programs: To raise awareness, NGOs and neighborhood associations frequently hold conferences, workshops, and awareness-raising events.
Residents or locals can now get care within the citydue to the availability of such services. This convenience eliminates the need to go to larger cities like Kolkata, Chennai, Delhi, or elsewhere in India to a great extent.
Technology is also a big factor in raising awareness of mental health issues in Siliguri City.
- People are now able to get help from the comfort of their homes due to the growth of telemedicine and online therapy platforms.
- Through online counseling, people can communicate with licensed psychologists and psychiatrists without worrying about being judged by others.
- There is a wealth of content on sites like Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram that aims to dispel prejudices and raise awareness.
- For those in mental distress, a number of state and national helplines are accessible.
- Even people who live on the outskirts of Siliguri can get assistance because of this digital accessibility.
Mental Health of Students
There are many students who face stress and anxiety, and these are often ignored.Siliguri draws students from neighbouring states and districts. However, young minds suffer from the demands of career and academic competitiveness.
Some students here encounter the following difficulties:
- Performance anxiety and exam stress.
- Comparisons on social media and peer pressure.
- Loneliness brought on by being apart from relatives.
Students can cope with these difficulties with the support of awareness initiatives in schools and colleges. Also, mentors, parents, and teachers are being urged to recognize the early signs of distress and direct them to qualified help.
Final Words
The subject of mental health can no longer be ignored. In Siliguri, where life is getting more complicated, it is crucial to understand and take care of emotional and mental health.
Though the city's increased awareness is a positive start, more work is required to come out of stigma, improve accessibility, and create supportive communities.
We can all live in a healthier, happier environment if we raise awareness, practice compassion, and promote open discussions.Meet the best psychiatrist in Siliguri City at one of the top hospitals, like Shanti Mindcare.
