It’s Okay Not to be Okay: Acknowledging the Mental Health Care Negligence among different groups – A cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Mental health is a crucial component of overall well-being, encompassing emotional, psychological, and social aspects that influence how individuals think, feel, and behave. Despite its critical importance, mental health often remains neglected globally, resulting in widespread consequences for individuals and society. Negligence towards mental health manifests as inadequate awareness, stigma, insufficient access to services, and poor implementation of mental health policies. This neglect contributes to increased prevalence of mental disorders, social exclusion, economic burden, and diminished quality of life. Practical mental health care requires integrated approaches that involve public education, policy enforcement, capacity building for health professionals, and destigmatization efforts. Addressing the negligence of mental health is imperative to foster early intervention, support vulnerable populations, safeguard human rights, and promote holistic health. The growing recognition of mental health in law, public policy, and human rights underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to overcome neglect and ensure the well-being of all individuals. Out of 953 responses, we identified mental health issues in 864, which was statistically significant with a chi-square test value of 1260, p < 0.00001, indicating a highly significant association. Through our Questionnaire survey, we were able to determine the prevalence, patterns of symptoms, age groups and genders that suffer more from mental health issues, and to what extent our community is aware of mental health and its treatment.