Tehkeek International has ongoing research on mental health assessment in Kashmir valley as well
as the mitigation policies. In this regard, Tehkeek International has collected both online and inconsultation data. The results show that anxiety and depression are growing in Kashmir valley due
to unemployment, societal pressure, and weak relationships between parents and children. The
data contains 56% males and 44% females with the age group ranging from 16 to 44 years. The
dataset contains 40% research scholars/doctorates, 22% students, 15% private employees, 14%
government employees, and 9% entrepreneurs. The data contains 77% people without marriage,
32% married, and 1% divorced/widows. Some of the data responses can be found as under:
Have you ever been diagnosed with a mental disorder before?
9.6% say yes
This means 9.6% of people are diagnosed with a mental disorder.
Have you seen a therapist or mental counselor in the recent past?
15.3% say yes
This means 15.3% of people have seen a therapist or mental counselor in the recent past.
Any problems with your daily life or your physical health?
43.4% say yes
This means approximately half of the population is facing daily life issues which are of great
concern.
How often over the last two weeks have you felt nervous, anxious or low.
23.1 % say very often 46.6% say sometimes
This means that half of the population are feeling low or nervous or anxious or mood swings.
Also maximum population of youngsters is facing anxiety which is again a serious concern.
The data also included the parameters like restless feeling, trouble relaxing, less motivation,
sleep disorder, overeating, loss of appetite, societal pressure and suicidal thought, and overall
mental health ratings. The results also show that approximately 2% get suicidal thoughts daily
which is a huge concern.
Conclusion:
It has been seen that mental health issues are arising in Kashmir valley due to certain phenomena
including unemployment, societal pressures, etc. The study suggests immediate mitigation
policies where administration, education and research institutions, health sectors, and civil
society can join hands. Tehkeek international suggests parents build a good relationship with
their children and keep motivating them and giving them confidence. Schools, colleges, and
other institutions should conduct guidance and counseling programs frequently and the
employment sector should conduct motivational programs for their employees. Communitylevel programs and assessments should be conducted to mitigate the mental health issues in
Kashmir valley. Tehkeek International is ready to cooperate at every level including
administration and community and therefore policy making.
About Tehkeek International:
Tehkeek International is an education and research organization in Jammu and Kashmir whose
intention is social development via education and research. Please be connected to Tehkeek
international via social media, website, or visit our office.