With mental health conversations gaining traction, ITC’s “Feel Good With Fiama Mental Wellbeing Survey 2024,” commissioned in its fourth year with NielsenIQ, has unveiled a thought-provoking landscape for mental wellbeing in India.
Despite growing awareness, many individuals still struggle in silence, hesitant to openly discuss their emotional well-being or seek professional help.
There’s a tendency to downplay struggles, or a belief that seeking help is only for those experiencing severe mental illness.
This disconnect between awareness and action raises a crucial question: Why, in an age of information and acceptance, are so many still hesitant to embrace therapy as a path to genuine well-being?
Fiama Mental Wellbeing Survey 2024: The Stigma Dilemma
While 83% of survey participants believe mental health issues are nothing to be ashamed of, a staggering 81% feel ashamed of telling others that they are taking therapy.
Yes, you read that right—there’s a paradox here. We’re becoming more accepting of mental health issues in general, yet the act of seeking help still carries a heavy weight of perceived societal judgment.
This inherent fear of judgment prevents individuals from having open conversations about their mental well-being, hindering access to support.
This year’s survey also reveals intriguing insights about generational differences. A whopping 80% of participating Gen Z individuals believe their parents would support them in therapy.
There’s a growing acceptance among close social circles, which is a step toward normalizing mental health conversations.
However, it’s essential to recognize that unique pressures faced by younger demographics—such as anxiety and fear of change—require targeted interventions.
Barriers to Accessing Support
77% of surveyed individuals find therapy expensive. A significant 74% do not seek therapy because health insurance doesn’t cover mental health services.
Shockingly, 55% still believe therapy is for the weak, highlighting the enduring stigma surrounding mental health support.
Now, let’s tie this back to the workplace. World Mental Health Day 2024’s official theme is “It is Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace.”
Safe, healthy working environments can act as protective factors for mental health. As we spend a significant portion of our lives at work, addressing mental health within these spaces becomes crucial.
Burnout, stress, and emotional well-being intersect with our professional lives, and organizations must take proactive steps to support their employees.
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