Need for Mental Awareness among the Youth

The five letter word “youth” invokes different perceptions in our mind - ‘the future’, ‘enthusiasm’,’ fun
loving’, ‘courageous’ are but a few among them. Yet, another term that is often used to qualify the
country’s future is ‘confused’. The country’s future, and confused? Well, something is not right. We
need to advise them, teach them and mould them, shouldn’t we? Or should we?

Confusion leads to clarity. The deviation from the ordered, prescribed path has rarely been accepted
with open arms by the society, in the past. So, the present is no different. Today’s generation, Gen-y as
we are called, is exposed to information from multiple channels. And this has led to us youngsters
questioning everything, before accepting. Resulting in many choosing the less trodden path in different
scenarios, be it – education, profession or, relationship. A kind of “I can do anything” attitude is nurtured
in his/her mind, which is understandably difficult for the previous generation to reconcile with, leading
to the evolution of the term - generation gap. But on the other hand, this self assured youth often hides
a vulnerable side – prone to all kinds of problems. While some share their problems with their friends,
and others with their parents, there are those who keep all their fears and conflicts within. We know
that suppressing our emotions is not healthy and will have serious consequences. Yet, we indulge in it.
Why can we not go forward and discuss our troubles with our friends, parents, a trusted relative or a
counselor? The last option even offers anonymity. Yet many, according to statistics of suicide rates, find
giving up their lives - an easier option. Ego, shame, dejection are few among the many reasons for such
drastic steps. But, there is a common solution and it is love and self awareness. Loving and accepting
oneself is the key to our happiness. Introspection is a powerful tool, which will serve us at all times.
These qualities will help us in building our unique identity, develop social security and not bow down for
the sake of social conformity.

Simple! But how should I achieve it? Should I hug myself every day? Isn’t it bit silly? No it isn’t. After all,
haven’t we all seen the famous ‘Jaadu ki Jhappi’ in Munna bhai Mbbs and heard about the number of
people who travel from distant places to hug Amrithanadamayi? So, hug yourself to be happy or do
anything that makes you happy, provided, it is lawfully and ethically acceptable! On a serious note,
there are a few things that we can follow to be tension free. While venturing into anything new, be it a
relationship with the same or the opposite sex, a career choice or a job change and others; we should be
prepared for not only the positive but negative consequences too. And not let the consequences affect
our perceptions of self (self-image or ego).

If you are one of those agony aunts, to whom everyone come to and share their problems, then here are
some nuggets of wisdom for you. Try not to be judgmental and advise your friend or ward; instead, be a
good listener and allow the person to arrive at a conclusion. Also, help the person to explore different
options and see their consequences apart from offering emotional support to him/her.

As we move forward in our busy lives, we must never forget that it is our duty to make earth a better
place for mankind. We are social animals, our strength lies in our interactions with one another. Thus,
communication and social bonding, irrespective of our personality, leads to emotional stability and
keeps insecurity, at bay.