SHILLONG: Lifestyle changes resulting from use of technology and a competitive job market have made people increasingly susceptible to mental illness, depression, stress and anxiety.
Speaking at the World Mental Health Day held at Moreau Institute of Integral Training (MIIT), Shillong on Wednesday, secretary of Health and Family Welfare Department, Pravin Bakshi outlined the impact of the changing world on people with the advent of technology.
Referring to the words “changing world” in the theme, “Young people and mental health in a changing world,” he viewed the age of technology has led to increasing amount of peer pressure and several influences that have a negative effect on youth.
Highlighting the rising challenges of unemployment and underemployment, he said the shrinking job market was another cause of concern leading to mental illness.
“The increase in population has not been able to keep pace with the job market,” he said.
Bakshi, who is also the executive chairman of Meghalaya Board of School Education (MBoSE) recalled that over-qualified candidates applied for the post of LDA-cum-typist in MBoSE.
“There were candidates who have passed their M. Tech, M. Sc, B. Sc, PhD. They said the job world was so competitive and will treat the job as sustenance,” he said.
He urged the students present in the programme, “to make your mark in life by setting your priorities right.”
