Anxiety Disorders in India: Why They’re Rising and What You Can Do

Over the past decade, anxiety disorders in India have seen a significant surge. This mental health issue is affecting people across all age groups and socioeconomic backgrounds. As much as the issue has become so severely common that even young children and senior citizens are failing to escape anxiety. 

Did you know? Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental illnesses in India, affecting 18.1% of the population. But why are we moving towards such an illness? Are there some common factors affecting all of us? Can we really escape anxiety? Let’s find out. 

What are anxiety disorders?

Anxiety disorders are simply a group of mental health conditions characterized by excessive fear, worry, and behavioral disturbances. The feeling of worry can be even for simple tasks like when your order will be delivered or very important life decisions like choosing your life partner. Different people have unique concerns, and anxiety can easily grasp anyone feeling lonely and sad. In many cases, even seemingly happy people with a well-to-do life suffer from anxiety. 

These include:

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
• Panic Disorder
• Social Anxiety Disorder
• Specific Phobias
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Which factors are contributing to alarming anxiety?

There are tons of reasons that are affecting people’s thought processes, and pinpointing the exact one for a person can be challenging. However, some of the general reasons affecting people are as follows:

Academic Pressure: Intense competition for limited seats in higher education and professional courses can cause immense stress among students. Academic pressure is one of the prime reasons affecting mental health in India among youth.

Digital Overstimulation: An ongoing constant exposure to news and social media pressures is troublesome for many. People often feel blurred personal and professional life boundaries contribute to a heightened sense of anxiety.

Decline in Social Interaction: Despite being “connected” digitally, people are failing to gain real-life social interaction. This further leads to feelings of loneliness and isolation, which can exacerbate anxiety. In fact, lack of social interaction is among the leading causes behind rising anxiety disorders in India.

Intolerance for Discomfort: Increased pressure for instant gratification and fear of missing out can lead to a decline in emotional resilience and higher anxiety levels.

Socioeconomic Factors: India is a nation with very deep socioeconomic differences among the society. On one side, we have some of the richest people in the world in India, and on the other, we have people committing suicide due to hunger, financial issues, etc. Poverty, unemployment, and financial strain further contribute to anxiety and stress.

Mental Health Stigma: Despite increasing awareness, seeking help for anxiety remains a challenge due to the fear of judgment and stigma. This creates a significant treatment gap and further increases the percentage of people suffering from anxiety disorders in India.

What You Can Do Personally for Yourself or Helping Someone You Know – Coping with Anxiety

While anxiety disorders require professional treatment in many cases, lifestyle changes and self-care can play a huge role in managing symptoms. Here’s how:

1. Seek Professional Help

Do not shy away from consulting a psychologist or psychiatrist as it is the first step. Therapy methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) have proven effective for anxiety disorders. Mental health counselling in Delhi can help you learn and master skills to combat anxiety and depression.

2. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation

Mindfulness practices like deep breathing, guided meditation, and yoga can help calm the mind and reduce anxiety. Mental health apps and traditional practices, are gaining popularity across urban India.

3. Limit Screen Time and Social Media Use

Unplug regularly to reduce digital fatigue. Set boundaries with your phone and social media apps. Curating your digital experience by unfollowing triggering accounts can make a surprising difference.

4. Stay Physically Active 

Exercise is a powerful, natural anti-anxiety treatment. Even a 30-minute walk daily can lower stress hormones and boost endorphins. Activities like swimming, running, and exercise also promote mental well-being.

5. Maintain a Healthy Diet and Sleep Routine

Avoid excessive caffeine and sugar, both of which can trigger anxiety. Prioritize regular meals and aim for 7–8 hours of sleep every night. A person with a tired brain is more prone to anxiety and emotional instability.

6. Talk About It

Sharing your feelings with your trusted friends/family members can be incredibly therapeutic. Try to indulge in a support group or mental health forum online to connect with others suffering from similar challenges. You’re not alone.

Conclusion

The rising prevalence of anxiety disorders in India is a serious issue that requires a multi-pronged approach involving individual actions, professional support, and societal changes. By addressing the contributing factors and promoting mental health awareness, individuals can better manage their anxiety and improve their overall well-being. 

AT Talk n Share, we provide psychotherapy sessions with a certified and experienced psychologist. You can book online or in-person sessions for you or your loved ones. 

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