Logical Reasoning Set 1: In our current landscape dominated by the COVID-19 pandemic and the unprecedented mental health challenges it brings, there is an urgent need to delve into the understanding of mental health stigma and explore ways to address it globally. Graham Thornicroft, an active psychiatrist deeply engaged in mental health stigma research at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neurosciences at King’s College London, breaks down stigma into three key components: knowledge, attitude, and behavior.

The behavioral aspect of stigma becomes more apparent in situations of social isolation, a phenomenon heightened during the ongoing pandemic, leading to exclusion from mainstream activities and citizenship. In wealthier nations, stigma rates may be elevated, potentially due to the heightened societal pressure to excel. Conversely, in low-income countries, individuals can navigate mental health challenges while still playing vital social and productive roles within their families and communities.

One effective strategy for reducing stigma is fostering increased contact with individuals who have experienced mental health problems. Currently, many people with mental illness choose to remain silent about their conditions, avoiding open discussions due to fears of societal judgment, reputation damage, or jeopardizing family status. Creating safe spaces where individuals feel welcomed and heard, free from judgment, is crucial in encouraging them to share their experiences.

In a unique approach undertaken in a small part of rural Andhra Pradesh, researchers utilized posters, pictures, drums, and a short street play as an intervention technique to diminish mental health stigma. An actor portrayed a personal journey through mental health crises, setbacks, and eventual support, highlighting hope, improvement, and recovery. The audience, gathered around the stage, engaged in open conversations about what they witnessed, a dialogue that persisted even two to three years after the event.

Questions

What is the central idea in the passage as conveyed by the author?

(A) Anyone facing mental health challenges shouldn’t see it as a roadblock to seeking help.

(B) Mental health is something that affects us all on a personal level, within the confines of our homes and daily lives.

(C) Unfortunately, in many less affluent nations, mental health often doesn’t get the attention and care it truly deserves.

(D) Mental health struggles didn’t suddenly appear with the global impact of COVID-19; they’ve been a part of human experiences long before the pandemic.

CORRECT OPTION: C

How can we best address mental health issues, according to the passage?

(A) Mental well-being improves when individuals feel comfortable openly expressing their emotions.

(B) Fostering a culture of acceptance is crucial for individuals grappling with mental health challenges, allowing them to heal gradually.

(C) Openly sharing and discussing personal experiences is a significant obstacle to achieving better global mental health conditions.

(D) Encouraging individuals not to shy away from expressing their failures can contribute to worsening mental health problems.

CORRECT OPTION: B

What does the passage convey about the importance of addressing mental health concerns in a way that resonates with human experiences?

(A) The COVID-19 pandemic has brought much-needed attention and discussion to the matter of mental health.

(B) After the COVID-19 pandemic, there’s hope that mental health will naturally see improvement.

(C) Social connections play a key role in boosting mental well-being; therefore, increased social isolation may have a negative impact on mental health.

(D) The concept of mental health, rather than being an illusion created during the COVID-19 pandemic, is a crucial aspect of our well-being and not merely a ploy to benefit pharmaceutical industries.

CORRECT OPTION: A 

“In low-income countries, one can be unwell and still play an active social and productive role somewhere as there are many such roles to play within the family and in society”.  Which of the following conclusions can be drawn from the above statement? 

(A) Stigma rates in lower-income countries are higher as compared to higher income countries. 

(B) Stigma rates in higher-income countries may be more due to a pressure of performing and to excel. 

(C) Mental stigma is not related to the economic conditions of a country. 

(D) Higher-income countries require people to perform multiple roles at their homes.

CORRECT OPTION: B

How can the author’s concept of creating a welcoming and non-judgmental space be undermined?

(A) Sharing your feelings can lead to a sense of mental peace and happiness.

(B) The support of society plays a crucial role in embracing individuals dealing with mental health challenges.

(C) Encouraging people to openly share their thoughts and expressions is a positive practice that should be promoted.

(D) While forming opinions about others is a natural human tendency, fostering a healthy approach to judgment should be encouraged on a large scale.

CORRECT OPTION: D

Read Also: Logical Reasoning Set 2: Previous Year Question 2021