Medical experts at Kamineni Hospitals have warned that modern lifestyles, increasing social media influence, and the rapid expansion of Artificial Intelligence (AI) are contributing to a growing mental health crisis worldwide, particularly among young people.
On the occasion of Mental Health Awareness Month 2026, the hospital organised an awareness programme titled ‘More Good Days, Together’ at its LB Nagar facility on Saturday. During the event, psychiatrists stressed that emotional well-being can improve only when “awareness replaces myths and mutual connection replaces silence.”
Experts Stress the Link Between Physical and Mental Health
Speaking at the programme, Dr. M. Saradhi Goud highlighted the strong connection between physical and mental health. He stated that complete well-being is impossible without good mental health, regardless of a person’s physical condition.
He explained that although awareness about mental health has improved among youth, myths and fears surrounding mental illness continue to prevent many people from seeking timely medical help.
“Even today, many people suffering from mental health issues hesitate to consult psychiatrists because they fear social judgement. Society often mistakes mental health problems for weakness, lack of confidence, or overthinking,” he said.
Furthermore, Dr. Goud emphasised that conditions such as depression, anxiety, addiction, and stress-related disorders are genuine medical conditions caused by biological, psychological, and social factors.
Chronic Stress and Emotional Fatigue Often Go Ignored
As per the press release, Dr. Goud also pointed out that many individuals ignore persistent stress, loneliness, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion by treating them as normal parts of life. However, he stressed that mental illnesses require the same seriousness and medical attention as conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.
He added that early diagnosis, counselling, lifestyle modifications, and medication, when necessary, can effectively manage mental health disorders and significantly improve quality of life.
Social Media and AI Are Increasing Mental Stress Among Youth
Meanwhile, Dr. Gautami Nagabhairava discussed the growing psychological impact of AI, smartphones, and social media on young people. While acknowledging that technology benefits education, healthcare, and communication, she warned that excessive dependence on digital platforms is also increasing mental stress.
According to Dr. Gautami, social media comparisons, the pressure to maintain an online identity, cyberbullying, gaming addiction, sleep disturbances, and the constant need to appear happy online are severely affecting the mental health of youth.
She further noted that unrealistic beauty standards and idealised lifestyles promoted online are damaging self-confidence and emotional stability, particularly among teenagers and children.
Excessive Screen Time Is Affecting Emotional Well-being
Dr. Gautami expressed concern over the increasing lack of outdoor activities among children and adolescents. She explained that excessive screen time is contributing to poor sleep, reduced concentration, emotional instability, and rising impatience among youngsters.
At the same time, she clarified that technology itself is not the problem. Instead, issues arise when digital habits begin to control human relationships, family interactions, physical activity, sleep patterns, and emotional resilience.
Early Intervention Can Improve Quality of Life
Highlighting the importance of timely intervention, Dr. Gautami stated that mental illnesses are treatable. She explained that emotional support, psychotherapy, healthy lifestyle changes, and medication, when required, can significantly improve a person’s quality of life.
She added that the hospital’s awareness initiative aims not only to spread awareness during Mental Health Awareness Month but also to break myths surrounding mental illnesses and encourage responsible and balanced use of technology.
“Even in the era of Artificial Intelligence, mental health remains extremely important. There can be no complete health without mental well-being,” she said.
Several doctors and hospital staff members participated in the programme.