Paying attention to mental well-being

Many people in the country are believed to be suffering from various kinds of mental health problems. In Bangladesh, there are reportedly only 270 psychiatrists and roughly 500 psychologists serving a population of more than 169 million. Individuals between the ages of 16 to 25 are particularly more vulnerable to depression and mental health problems. Societal pressures coupled with constant change and the inability to share things with families or friends compel younger individuals to resort to self-harm or suicide. Moreover, people suffering from other mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, obsessive compulsive disorder, etc also seldom receive adequate support.

The healthcare authorities should improve awareness about mental health conditions and destigmatise it through a widespread awareness campaign. It should also improve availability and accessibility to mental health support. Our general healthcare should include mental health service including rehabilitation.

Sirazi Shahjahan,

Malibagh, Dhaka,

mshaju001@gmail.com