Young adults in our country are exploring alternatives to de-stress, and music remains the preferred choice for 86% Indians to cope with stress and negativity, according to the latest 'ITC’s Feel Good with Fiama Mental Wellbeing Survey' for this year.

World Health Day is celebrated every year on Oct.10th, and in connection with this event, ITC Limited released its 'ITC’s Feel Good with Fiama Mental Wellbeing Survey' about mental health and wellbeing that was conducted by NeilsenIQ in September 2023 with 800 men and women between the ages of 16-45 years across Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Bangalore.

The survey covers a complete range of beliefs, behaviours, major stressors and de-stressors for GenZ and Millennials towards mental health, and the results unveiled several interesting facts.

Cinema, like in many other parts of the world, plays a significant role in raising awareness about cultural influences and behaviours. The Feel Good with Fiama Mental wellbeing Survey, 2023 reveals that Gen Z and Millennials believe that better portrayal of mental health in cinema will influence perceptions and drive conversations.

82% of the survey respondents feel that TV/OTT can be instrumental in influencing perceptions about mental health. 77% believe that TV/Movies and OTT content can drive mental health conversations. 78% Indians feel ‘dramatic’ representation of mental health can deter people from seeking treatment and 79% believe positive mental health portrayals in movies can aid in addressing stigma.81% also feel that celebrities create strong impact as mental health advocates.

Work and Career: Work pressure and career related decisions top the chart in factors that cause stress and impact mental wellbeing for young India. Gen Z surpasses millennials by 18% in career anxiety.

9 out of 10 Indians stressed at workplace, would appreciate better work life balance policies. 62% respondents feel stressed about resuming physical work. More than 57% Gen Z attribute career decisions related worries to mental health issues. 42% Indian men seek immediate professional help and 35% opt for online counselling. 53% of the respondents from Bangalore believe that issues with mental wellbeing impact relationships at work as well.

Relationships: 38% Indian women attribute toxic relationships amongst the top reasons that impact mental health and 64% Indians believe societal standards cause burnouts.

82% Indians believe that their parents would be supportive in case they were to seek therapy. This also reflects parents are regarded as confidantes if one had to undergo therapy. However, only 29% Indians consider siblings as confidantes in their mental health journey; partners fare only marginally better at 31%. 61% Indians feel helpless at their inability to assist loved ones with mental health issues.

In a positive step forward, the survey also reveals that 84% believe mental health issues are nothing to be ashamed of. 54% Indians state Mental Health is as important for overall well-being. 58% combat stress through yoga, meditation and exercise. Despite the varied causes of stress and increasing anxiety, 51% Indians who believe social media has a positive impact turn to online counselling as a treatment option.

Speaking about the survey, Sameer Satpathy, Divisional Chief Executive, Personal Care Products Business, ITC Limited, said “In its 3rd edition, the survey unveils some critical facts that can definitely be a catalyst for more widespread conversations, a more nuanced understanding of the issue as well as enhance mental health support. Fiama’s endeavour to make mental wellbeing a more proactive conversation goes beyond just provoking a thought. In collaboration with MINDS Foundation, it also enables access to subsidized virtual therapy.”