Mental health has gained significant attention in recent years, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. We often downplay mental health issues and make it a taboo as opposed to physical health. Fortunately, The well-being of individuals and communities has become a priority as governments recognize the profound impact mental health has on overall quality of life.

Role of Government and Understanding its Why

If happiness depends upon ourselves then what is the role of the government in promoting our happiness, how can it promote and why will it promote?

Firstly, contrary to the famous quote by Aristotle, Happiness does not always depend solely on ourselves, it is sometimes a by-product of the people and environment we are in. Which means, happy societies make individuals also happy. Here is where governments can act and promote happy societies or communities. Renowned publisher Psychology Today stresses on government focus to build mental health infrastructure, employment generation and social capital. A balance between addressing the reasons for unhappiness and supporting mental capital will result in connected and co-operating communities with reduced crime, and lower suicide rates, and increases trust on governmental institutions. Also, research suggests that happy individuals tend to be more productive, creative, and innovative, leading to enhanced economic outcomes. They can perform well at their jobs, earn more and contribute to economy.

In this context, governments across the world are setting-up ministries/departments, a trend that gained traction globally in the 21st century. Bhutan led the way by focusing on Gross National Happiness since the 1970s. The UAE introduced the first Ministry of Happiness in 2016, followed by other nations like Finland, New Zealand, and Scotland. While the main aim is to formulate wholistic well-being policies, they also work on setting up institutions for effective implementation of the policies.

Measuring Happiness and Levers of its Growth

The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a framework for countries to address various social, economic, and environmental challenges. While there is no specific SDG dedicated solely to mental health, several goals indirectly contribute to its promotion. For instance, Goal 3 focuses on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages, which includes mental health as a crucial component.

UN, through its initiative Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), publishes the World Happiness Report every year. It is a comprehensive report that evaluates national happiness on six key variables: GDP per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom to make life choices, generosity, and freedom from corruption. This provides a base to understand a country’s progress towards sustainable development. However, there are instances where countries like India dismisses the report when her rank fell from 111th in 2013 to 126th in 2023. Countries like Russia, China, and North Korea, with their authoritarian regimes, have faced criticism for neglecting the mental health and well-being of their citizens.

The 2020 report also stated the reasons why the Nordic countries are top rankers in the world – Low levels of income inequality & flexible work hours, welfare-state model, social cohesion & trust between people, quality institutional setup. In Finland, the integration of mental health programs within educational curricula significantly reduced stress among students, resulting in better academic performance and improved overall well-being. Scotland’s community-based mental health support networks not only elevated individual happiness but also bolstered communal ties and trust.

The Indian Context and Policy Impediments

In the Indian context, the government has taken significant steps towards promoting happiness and well-being. There is no such Ministry in Union Government but Madhya Pradesh was the first and only state to establish a department. However, the central government launched initiatives like the National Mental Health Program. However, lack of clear objectives and no measurable outcomes raised questions on the purpose and functioning of the department. In India, issues such as unemployment, income inequality, low per capita GDP, access to mental health infrastructure, low or weak institutional setup, social stigma and cultural barriers associated with mental illnesses poses policy implementation challenges. However, a greater awareness about mental health was brought into society post Covid-19.

To conclude, in our journey towards prioritizing mental health and well-being, governments and societies have made significant strides. Acknowledging mental health as a vital component of overall happiness is a crucial step towards fostering healthier, more prosperous nations. While challenges persist, the commitment to addressing mental health concerns has resulted in commendable initiatives globally.

Looking ahead, the growing recognition of mental health’s pivotal role in societal well-being is promising. It’s heartening to witness a shift in attitudes where mental health discussions are becoming more mainstream and destigmatized. Governments are increasingly investing in comprehensive mental health policies and infrastructure, recognizing that a mentally healthy populace translates into a more resilient and vibrant society.

As we commemorate the International Day of Happiness, let’s reaffirm our commitment to fostering environments where mental health is prioritized, stigma is eradicated, and well-being is cherished. Every step taken toward mental health awareness, support, and advocacy brings us closer to a world where happiness is not merely a pursuit but a tangible reality for all.

Fun fact: Since 2013, March 20 is observed as International Day of Happiness. Since 1992, October 10 is observed as World Mental Health Day