Though remote working was in place for many companies since the pre-pandemic era, complete remote setup took a toll on the mental health of many employees, more so due to lockdowns and no social interactions. 

According to the latest survey conducted by mental wellness support company LISSUN, a whopping 50% of respondents express that there has been a significant 40-60% increase in the number of mental illnesses post Covid-19 pandemic. Also, 68% of respondents think that working from home has contributed to many mental health issues. However, the grave concern revealed through the study is that a staggering 70% of patients are at their advanced stage when they get their diagnosis done. 

The findings further state that only 20% of the respondents said that patients approached their families first when they encountered emotional or mental trouble. 43% of respondents expressed the concern that family usually is hesitant to help patients avail proper treatment or go for therapy.

Talking about the primary reasons for mental illness, 62% of the respondents believe that childhood bullying and child abuse victims are more likely to have anxiety/depression in adult life. Furthermore, patients facing different physical challenges too experience underlying mental illness at times. As per 65% of respondents, patients with infertility issues are most likely to be susceptible to mental illness, followed by oncology with 60%, and nephrology with 55%.

In the official statement, the company noted that the survey also highlighted the most common signs of mental health issues: indigestion, constant lethargy, and sometimes persistent body ache, which otherwise go undetected.

Commenting on the data, Tarun Gupta, Co-founder of LISSUN said, “The survey has brought before us the real picture of mental health conditions in India. Our aim in conducting this survey is to draw the sincere attention of the people towards this grave issue which unfortunately over many years has been put under the carpet. The primary challenge is the mindset of people where a patient is unable to take the very first step, if that is addressed then the war is 50% won."

On a positive note, 42% of the respondents say that post-Covid-19, society is more open to the idea of people taking psychological counselling for mental well-being. However, 38% of the respondents believe that the recent Tele-Mental Heath program initiated by the government would only benefit the urban population. The primary reason for this could be that in rural the priority is awareness so that people step forward and avail the service in need.