Medscope by gaurang

Mental illness is one of the most important global health issues today, yet it remains one of the least discussed. Many people still believe that mental health problems are “not real” or are “just in the mind.” But mental illness affects mood, thinking, behaviour, relationships, productivity, and even physical health. It deserves the same attention as any physical illness.

What Is Mental Illness?

Mental illness refers to a wide range of conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, eating disorders, and more. These conditions affect the way a person feels, thinks, and behaves.

Why Mental Illness Is Often Ignored?

There are millions of reasons out of few common reasons are listed below:

• Fear of being judged

• Cultural and social stigma

• Lack of awareness

• People don’t recognize symptoms in themselves

• Families hide mental-health issues due to shame

Common Signs People Can Face:

• Constant sadness or irritability

• Loss of interest in activities

• Difficulty concentrating

• Sleep problems

• Feeling overwhelmed

• Sudden anger or withdrawal

• Physical symptoms without medical cause (headaches, stomach aches)

Why Awareness Matters?

Awareness helps people identify symptoms early, seek help faster, and feel less alone. Families also learn how to support loved ones with compassion instead of criticism.

How We Can Help as a Society

• Encourage open conversations

• Avoid judgemental phrases (“You’re too sensitive”, afterall who made this criteria of too sensitive?)

• Educate ourselves on real symptoms

• Normalise therapy

• Be kind and patient

• Listen more than we speak

Conclusion:

Mental illness is not a sign of weakness—it is a reminder that being human is complex. When we talk openly and compassionately, we create a world where no one feels ashamed to ask for help. Awareness is the first step toward understanding, and understanding is the first step toward healing.

And whenever the mind feels heavy, books stand by us like silent friends, offering comfort, clarity, and hope.

Recommended Books:

• The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown

• Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottlieb

• Lost Connections by Johann Hari

— Written by Gaurang Rai, pursuing MBBS from KIMS

As a medical student at KIMS (Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences), I witness every day how deeply mental health shapes a person’s life—sometimes more than we realize. Mental illness is not only a medical condition but also an emotional journey that deserves empathy, awareness, and respect.

Through these blogs, my intention is simple:

to create a safe space where people feel understood, supported, and never alone.

Studying medicine has taught me that healing doesn’t begin with prescriptions—it begins with listening, kindness, and breaking the silence around mental health. If even one reader feels comforted or encouraged to seek help after reading this, then this effort is worth it.

Books have always been my silent companions during stressful nights of study, exams, and life. I believe that a good book can be a teacher, a friend, and sometimes even a form of therapy.

So I have recommended a few titles with each blog—hoping they guide you, comfort you, and inspire you the way they did for me.

Your mental health matters.

Your story matters.

And you deserve support, compassion, and peace.

— Gaurang Rai

MBBS Student, KIMS

Instagram username – _gaurrang_

Some videos which might help if you are facing this situation or someone you know: