Manipal Hospital, EM Bypass, held an insightful panel discussion on emotional well-being, inner calm, and meaningful connection for the senior community on World Mental Health Day.

The interactive session was moderated by Dr. Kunal Sarkar, Director – Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery, Manipal Hospital, Mukundapur Cluster and Ms. Sohini Saha, Consultant- Psychologist, Manipal Hospital, EM Bypass, in the presence of other eminent doctors like Dr. Abir Mukherjee, Consultant – Psychiatry, Manipal Hospital, Mukundapur; Dr. Arijit Dutta Chowdhury, Consultant – Psychiatry, Manipal Hospital, EM Bypass and Dr. Anuttama Banerjee, Consultant- Psychologist, Manipal Hospital, EM Bypass.

The purpose of the discussion was to raise awareness of the emotional and psychological challenges faced by senior persons in today’s fast-paced society and to encourage discussion about cultivating empathy, mindfulness, and social connections as people age.

Dr. Abir Mukherjee said, “India’s aging population is increasing due to better healthcare and longer life expectancies, which is a sign of success but also presents new difficulties. Depression, anxiety, dementia, and cognitive impairment are among the most common mental health conditions among the elderly. These conditions are frequently made worse by social exclusion, stigma, nuclear families, and financial reliance. The situation is made worse by a lack of awareness and prompt action. Professional help is also lacking, and the stress of caregiving is not sufficiently addressed. For our seniors to age with emotional well-being, dignity, and purpose, it is imperative that we as a society work together to foster an atmosphere of empathy, early detection, and support”.

Dr. Arijit Dutta Chowdhury said, “As medical science has advanced, human life expectancy has increased significantly, leading to a growing number of people in the geriatric age group. But this also means that age-related mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and dementia are becoming more common. The quality of life and emotional health of senior citizens are greatly enhanced by early diagnosis and prompt intervention through suitable medication and, if required, psychotherapy”.

Dr. Anuttama Banerjee said, “Old age is an inevitable stage of life that is specific to each individual and not an illness. It is our responsibility as caregivers to establish a safe space where elderly individuals can face this change with dignity and self-assurance. Health issues should not be overly pathologized or infantilized; instead, they should be handled sensitively”.

Since everyone has the right to mental health, we must make sure that our elderly people receive the respect and emotional health they so richly deserve, in addition to care and support. Empathy and compassion should replace stigma and silence in discussions about mental health. Communities, families, and caregivers must collaborate to establish a safe environment where emotional difficulties are recognized and supported. In addition to physical health, true wellbeing is a balanced mental state in which one feels heard, respected, and connected.

Priyanka Dutta