Open house: What needs to be done to address rising mental health issues in society?

Find solace through daily meditation

Anxiety and depression are steadily increasing in society due to fast-paced and stressful lifestyles, and experts have repeatedly warned about their long-term consequences on mental and physical health. To reduce stress and lead a peaceful life, individuals must consciously adopt healthier habits and create balance in their daily routines. Regular physical activity, even simple walks, helps release tension and boosts mood. Practicing mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, can calm the mind and provide clarity during difficult moments. It is equally important to maintain strong relationships with family and friends, as emotional support plays a vital role in resilience. Setting realistic goals, managing time wisely, and avoiding unnecessary commitments prevent overwhelming pressure. Limiting screen time, especially before bedtime, can also improve sleep, which is essential for mental well-being. Finally, seeking professional help when needed should never be ignored, as early guidance can prevent small problems from becoming major struggles. By making these thoughtful changes, individuals can gradually lead calmer, healthier, and more peaceful lives.

Novin Christopher

Explore ‘right to disconnect’ from work

The rise of anxiety and depression, fueled by modern stressors, requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses both individual lifestyle changes and broader societal shifts. We must take care some of the important points to reduce stress and anxiety that first treat sleep as a non-negotiable. A consistent sleep schedule and a diet rich in whole foods directly impact mood and resilience. Focus on health — exercise is a powerful antidepressant and anxiety-reducer. It doesn’t have to be intense daily walks, yoga, or dancing. Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness break the cycle of rumination and bring you to the present moment, reducing stress hormones. One must designate screen-free times, turn off non-essential notifications, and curate your social media feed. Constant connectivity is a major source of stress. Prioritise face-to-face time with friends and family. Social support is a critical buffer against stress. Local government must create more green spaces, parks, and pedestrian-friendly communities. Access to nature is scientifically proven to reduce stress. Explore policies like the ‘right to disconnect’ to protect personal time from work encroachment. Move from a narrow definition of success (wealth, status, productivity) to a broader one that includes well-being, relationships, and purpose.

Dr Mohammad Saleem Farooqui

Workplaces must be supportive spaces

In today’s fast-paced world, anxiety and depression are increasing rapidly due to stress, unhealthy lifestyle habits, and lack of emotional balance. Constant pressure to perform, long working hours, excessive screen time, and reduced social interaction have made people mentally exhausted. Alcohol and drug addiction are also becoming major contributors, as many individuals use them for temporary relief, which eventually worsens mental health. To solve this growing problem, individuals must adopt a healthier routine that includes regular exercise, proper sleep, and mindful practices like meditation or deep breathing. A balanced diet, reduced caffeine intake, and limited use of mobile phones can also bring a positive change. Staying connected with family and friends, sharing feelings, and seeking professional help when needed are essential steps. Workplaces and schools should promote mental-health awareness and create supportive environments. By making small but consistent improvements in daily life, society can prevent anxiety and depression.

Amarjit Singh Oberoi

Maintaining healthy sleep-cycle paramount

In today’s fast-moving world, anxiety and depression have become common problems. Experts warn that long working hours, academic pressure, and limited family time are making people emotionally exhausted. To reduce stress and live a peaceful life, certain positive changes are essential. Firstly, people must learn to prioritise their mental health. Taking short breaks during work, practicing mindfulness, and spending a few minutes in nature can refresh the mind. Regular physical activities such as walking, cycling, or yoga help release stress and improve overall mood. Maintaining a healthy sleep schedule also plays a crucial role. Secondly, emotional connection is important. Talking openly with family, friends, or counsellors can relieve hidden stress. Communities and schools should also create awareness about mental well-being and provide support when needed. By adopting healthier habits, staying connected, and balancing responsibilities, individuals can reduce stress and enjoy a calmer, more peaceful life.

Chamanpreet Kaur

Over-commitment sure path to burnout

The stress and anxiety in may be reduced by engaging in activities that feel meaningful (volunteering, creative pursuits, community work) and practicing gratitude can fundamentally shift perspective away from anxiety. Over-commitment is a direct path to burnout. Protect your time and energy by setting healthy boundaries. One must challenge the culture of constant productivity. Value rest, hobbies, and “doing nothing” as essential for a full life, not as laziness. Move away from glorifying overwork. Leaders should model balanced behavior, take vacations, and respect off-hours. Flexibility in hours and remote/hybrid models can reduce stress and improve work-life integration. Teach children from a young age about emotional literacy, coping skills, resilience, and mindfulness. This is preventative care for society. Governments and insurers must treat mental healthcare as essential healthcare, reducing cost and wait-time barriers. To lead a more peaceful life, we must intentionally design our lives and societies for well-being, not just for output. It requires individual action (setting boundaries, self-care), community support (strong relationships, empathetic workplaces), and systemic change (accessible healthcare, education). The solution lies not in trying to run faster on the stressful hamster wheel, but in having the courage to step off and design a different kind of wheel altogether. Start with one small change a daily walk, a digital detox, a conversation with a friend and build from there.

Farzana Khan

Follow healthy lifestyle sincerely

To reduce stress, the first and most important step is to bring positive changes into our lifestyle. When we improve the way we live, we naturally move towards a peaceful, healthy, and happy life. A good lifestyle begins with removing our bad habits. One of the biggest habits that increases stress today is the excessive use of mobile phones. Spending too much time on screens affects our mind, sleep, and overall mood, so we should try to limit phone usage as much as possible. Another helpful change is waking up early in the morning. Early mornings are calm and refreshing, and going for a morning walk every day helps our mind relax and our body stay active. Along with this, doing regular exercise or yoga is extremely beneficial. These activities improve our physical health, reduce anxiety, and help us stay mentally strong. If we sincerely follow this healthy lifestyle, we can manage stress more effectively and enjoy a more balanced life. These habits may seem small, but they create a big impact and help us live peacefully and happily.

Ishpreet Kaur

Identify stressors, develop coping skills

When a sad mood or anxiety lasts for a long time and interferes with normal everyday functioning, you may be depressed and feel irritable, and not wanting to do activities that used to be fun. You may also be thinking about suicide, feel guilty, worthless or helpless besides having trouble falling asleep and feeling tired even after sleeping well. Depression may be caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental and psychological factors. Experiencing traumatic events, such as physical or sexual abuse, the death of loved ones or financial problems can cause depression. Having a medical problem, such as cancer or chronic pain and excessive use of alcohol or drugs can lead you to depression. If you think you are depressed, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional immediately. Treatment for depression include getting therapy or counselling and/or taking medications called antidepressants. Self-care can also play an important role in supporting treatment. Regular exercise, healthy eating and sleeping habits and avoiding intake of illicit drugs and alcohol can help a lot in reducing depression. Mindful meditation and relaxation techniques like slow breathing and muscle relaxation can be helpful.

RS Sembhi

Avoid junk food, listen to soft music

Life is a struggle. Every person is in a race to go ahead of the other person. Moreover, there is a lot of competition in the job field, as there is rampant unemployment in the country. To be under stress and anxiety is a common thing. It is so necessary to reduce the stress and anxiety in life; otherwise, life can be disturbed. We should be active and do exercises. Take healthy foods and avoid junk food. Get sound sleep because sound sleep reduces your tension and anxiety. You get to feel better after getting sound sleep. Isolation brings stress and anxiety, so that person should get involved with social activities; such activities can reduce tension and anxiety. We should listen to soft music. Soft music removes tiredness, stress, and tensions. We should lessen our screen time on mobile, laptop, and TV. Keep yourself busy to reduce the stress and anxiety.

Sucha Singh Sagar

One must travel more often to clear head

In today’s materialistic world, a man is chasing money from dawn to dusk while silencing his soul’s demand for peace which causes extreme anxiety and sometimes depression. Stress has jaws which are chewing our internal serenity per day. But, as it is said that every problem has a solution, similarly travelling can be considered as a remedy to root out all the hardships of our life. Frequent trips must be organised by the organisations for their employees or one should plan a family trip or trip with friends to remove the burden of mind. It will surely reenergise the productivity of an individual and help him to be away from the negative thought process.

Kamaldeep Kaur

Prioritise tasks, limit caffeine, alochol

To reduce stress and foster a peaceful life amidst modern pressures, experts recommend a multifaceted approach combining lifestyle adjustments, mental health practices, and seeking support. Regular exercise is crucial as it acts as a powerful stress reliever and mood booster. Ensure adequate sleep (7-9 hours) to help your body and mind recover. A balanced diet rich in whole foods, while limiting caffeine, alcohol, and processed sugars, can stabilise mood and energy levels. Poor time management often contributes significantly to stress. Learn to prioritise tasks, set realistic goals, and avoid overscheduling. The Pomodoro technique (working in focused bursts with short breaks) can enhance productivity while preventing burnout. Constant connectivity to news and social media can increase anxiety levels. Set aside specific “no-phone” times during the day, especially an hour before bedtime, to allow your mind to unwind. Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can significantly lower stress levels by engaging the body’s relaxation response. Even a few minutes of mindful breathing each day can make a difference. It is important to learn to say “no” to extra demands on your time and energy when you feel overwhelmed. Healthy boundaries protect your well-being and prevent resentment. Make time for activities you enjoy, such as reading, listening to music, gardening, or spending time in nature. These activities provide a necessary break from stressors and offer a sense of fulfillment. Strong social connections are a vital buffer against stress. Spend time with supportive friends and family, and don’t hesitate to talk about your feelings. If stress, anxiety, or depression symptoms persist and interfere with daily life, it is important to seek guidance from a mental health professional. Therapists or counsellors can provide coping strategies and support tailored to your needs. By implementing these strategies, individuals can proactively manage stress and cultivate a more peaceful, resilient life.

Sukhdev Sharma

Inculcate deep breathing, walks

Our modern lives are drowning us in notifications, deadlines, and endless to-do lists. Mental health experts aren’t just concerned — they’re alarmed. Anxiety and depression cases have surged dramatically, transforming from occasional struggles into a widespread crisis. The solution isn’t complicated, though it requires commitment. Start by disconnecting regularly from screens and social media, which constantly bombard us with comparisons and manufactured urgency. Build genuine connections with people who matter—loneliness fuels mental distress more than we realize. Physical movement remains surprisingly powerful. Even a 20-minute walk can reset your nervous system. Equally important is sleep, which we sacrifice too readily for productivity that ultimately diminishes when we’re exhausted. Perhaps most crucially, we need to redefine success. Not every moment requires optimisation. Sometimes the bravest thing we can do is simply slow down, breathe deeply, and remember that our worth isn’t measured by our output. Peace isn’t found—it’s created, one intentional choice at a time.

Daras Preet

Use mindfulness for emotional stability

The best way to reduce anxiety and depression and lead a peaceful life is to maintain strong physical, mental, and social well-being. This can be achieved through regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep, all of which play a vital role in supporting overall health. Mindfulness and meditation further enhance emotional stability and promote calmness. Effective time management and healthy lifestyle habits, such as relaxation techniques, also contribute to better wellness. Additionally, meaningful social interactions help ease tension and uplift one’s mood. Adopting these practices is essential to reducing stress and living a truly peaceful and fulfilling life.

Tavleen Kaur

Indulge in journaling, nurture social bonds

In the contemporary society, the incidence of anxiety and depression is escalating at an alarming rate, largely due to increasingly demanding lifestyles. Experts caution that relentless competition, overwhelming responsibilities, and diminishing interpersonal connections are placing immense psychological pressure on individuals. To alleviate stress and cultivate a peaceful life, deliberate and meaningful interventions are necessary. Primarily, people must adopt a holistic approach to well-being. Engaging in mindful practices such as meditation, controlled breathing, and reflective journaling can stabilise emotional imbalance. Regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and a nutritious diet further strengthen mental resilience. Equally significant is the nurturing of emotional bonds. Open conversations with family, friends, or mental health professionals help release suppressed anxieties. Institutions like schools and workplaces should also foster supportive environments that discourage excessive pressure. By integrating these thoughtful practices into daily life, individuals can gradually diminish stress and progress towards a more serene, balanced, and fulfilling existence.

Manpreet Kaur

Need for awareness, acceptance, support

Experts have repeatedly warned that stressful, fast-paced lifestyles are harming people’s mental well-being, yet the issue is often ignored. To reduce stress and lead a peaceful life, it is important that people adopt healthy habits such as yoga, meditation, and regular physical activity. Spending quality time with family can also provide emotional support and improve mental balance. Most importantly, mental-health concerns must be recognised as real and legitimate. Timely medical help and proper treatment should be made accessible without stigma so that those suffering can receive the care they need. It is only through awareness, acceptance, and supportive practices that society can overcome this growing problem.

Avleen Kaur

Plan day in advance to reduce confusion

Stress has become common in today’s busy lifestyles, and many people feel anxious due to work pressure and personal responsibilities. To reduce stress, we should follow simple and healthy habits. Light exercise, yoga, or a short walk can refresh the mind and improve mood. Talking to close friends or family helps in sharing worries and feeling relaxed. Reducing mobile and social media use is also important because they increase unnecessary pressure. Getting enough sleep and eating healthy food keep the mind calm and stable. Doing meditation for a few minutes every day brings peace and improves concentration. Managing time properly and planning our day can reduce confusion and workload. Spending time on hobbies like reading, drawing, or music can also make us feel happy. By following these small steps, we can live a peaceful and stress-free life.

Gurleen Kaur

Spirituality forms foundation of peace

In today’s fast-paced world, stress, anxiety, and depression are increasing rapidly. One of the major reasons behind this is the overuse of mobile phones. Excessive screen time affects our mental health and disturbs our peace of mind, so people should reduce mobile usage and take regular breaks. To live a calmer life, good habits like daily exercise, reading, and meditation must be adopted. These activities help the mind relax and improve our focus. Sharing our problems with trusted friends or family members also plays an important role in reducing stress. When we open up, we not only feel lighter but also receive guidance and support to solve our issues. Moreover, meditation and spirituality form the foundation of a peaceful life. They connect us with our inner self and help us stay positive. By following these simple steps, anyone can reduce stress and lead a happier, balanced life.

Navneet Singh

Stay away from drugs, highly-processed food

We should stay away from drugs to stay stress-free. We should meditate, yoga, walk every morning so that our body can stay healthy and stress-free. Being in green spaces can reduce stress hormones and improve mental well-being. Even a short walk in a local park can be beneficial. As many as 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep per night is necessary. Establish a consistent sleep schedule and a comfortable bedtime routine to regulate sleep. Exercise releases endorphins and reduces stress hormones like cortisol. Even a 30-minute walk on most days can significantly boost your mood and resilience. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fatty acids can improve mood and energy levels. Limit caffeine, alcohol and highly-processed foods, as these can increase anxiety and disrupt sleep. Include meditation, mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, or yoga in your daily routine to activate the body’s natural relaxation response. We should never take on stress that leads us to depression.

Anmol Singh

Step out in nature, find engaging hobbies

Anxiety and depression are rising, especially among the youth, due to increasing competition, pressure, and lifestyle-related expectations. If not managed properly, these issues can have harmful consequences for both the individual and society. To reduce stress and live peacefully, it is important to develop healthy daily habits. Managing time effectively, setting realistic goals, and maintaining a balanced routine help prevent situations from becoming overwhelming. Relaxation practices like deep breathing, meditation, and regular exercise calm the mind and improve mood. Staying connected with family and friends also provides emotional support, making it easier to cope with challenges. It is helpful to replace negative thoughts and emotions with positive and constructive ones. For young people, limiting screen time, spending more “me-time,” observing nature, and pursuing creative hobbies such as music or reading can be very beneficial. Proper sleep and nutritious food also play an important role in reducing stress. By following these simple practices and supporting one another, society can move towards a more peaceful and emotionally healthy environment.

Japleen Kaur

Integrate more positive relations

Present-day lifestyles are diverse yet stressful, especially with digital burnout and resource inequalities, causing increasing numbers of the population to endure anxiety, depression, and related issues. Anxiety and depression are symptoms of the stressful lifestyles and digitally-induced exhaustion faced by the population. Specialists point to the need and value of focusing on wellness to reclaim a state of mental and emotional health and peace. Sleep well and aim for a minimum 7 to 9 hours. Be physically active, going on a daily brisk walk. Exercise modifies the level of some hormones in the body responsible for stress and releases mood-improving hormones. Focus on your individual breath and be deliberately present at your location to justify to yourselves your over-concentration on tumultuous daily issues. Be active and integrate positive relationships into your life to use as a stress buffer and to sustain chronic relaxation. Keep easily avoidable interruptions at bay by setting time boundaries for the use of digital devices and committing to a digital. Integrate positive social activities into your routine to create a social buffer or use them to sustain chronic relaxation.

Gagan Ajit Singh

Learn value of contentment in life

To reduce stress in life, one must not care too much for what one has and does not have. Everybody cannot have all the things all the time in life. Some live with earnings received from parents or others, while some have to struggle to get better off in life. That is the play of luck. Therefore, all must take things easy as they come. Life is a struggle and it must be taken that way only. Another important thing is that one must believe in God, as He takes care of all the people. Satisfaction is a great virtue and one must have it. Anxiety and depression are really bad in life and we must avoid them at all times. This becomes a cause of frustration.

Gautam Dev