~ Authored by Dr. S Narayani, Zonal Director, Fortis Hospitals Mumbai ~
India is expected to become the first country to be home to more than 1.5 billion people by 2030. And its population is set to reach 1.7 billion by 2050. In view of the growing population, policy makers, healthcare providers, agriculturists. And economists opine that simply producing a larger volume of healthier food sustainably will not ensure human and planetary wellbeing. There are many crucial challenges that need to be addressed given the pandemic.
WHAT ROLE CAN THE YOUTH AND EARLY EARNER PLAY IN ADDRESSING THESE CHALLENGES AND CONTRIBUTING TOWARDS BUILDING A HEALTHIER NATION?
India has the largest world age population (15 to 64 years) in the world. While this is expected to generate exponential increase in productivity and economic growth too. We need to keep in mind that a demographic transition alone does not automatically create a productive workforce. And while India has been pushing youth-focused programs (aimed at employment, upskilling, etc.). Young voices have been missing from crucial discussions, such as healthcare. There is a need to understand the health and well-being related needs and aspirations of young Indians in a more holistic manner.
THE YOUNG WORKING POPULATION IS EMPOWERED TO TAKE HEALTHCARE DECISIONS:
Young population today contributes significantly to and has a strong voice in matters of health and well-being of their family members. They demand better healthcare infrastructure and expect high quality care and patient experience.
A 2021 survey by Deloitte revealed that during the pandemic, healthcare and unemployment topped millennials’ list of concerns. Almost half of young people said they feel stressed all or most of the time, which is higher than the global average. Apart from health, matters like financial security, welfare of the family, and job security are factors contributing to stress.
On a good note, millennials feel more optimistic that the pandemic has encouraged positive personal change. Being inspired to improve their own lives and creating a sense of togetherness. Are some of the outcomes that Indian millennials and Gen Zs feel have been the most positive. Across the board, young Indian adults and millennials are more confident. That the pandemic will bring about change for the better. Especially on their health and the ability to deal with future pandemics. Indeed, an important consideration.
CHANGES THAT THE PANDEMIC INFUSED:
During the pandemic young people have experienced a range of mental health challenges. Such as academic stress, isolation, Depression, Anxiety, eating disorders, Insomnia, and learning disabilities. This was compounded by blurred workspaces, loss of jobs, work-from-home struggles, familial pressures; however, nothing stopped them from taking charge and making the right decisions for themselves and their families. Across the world, increasing number of youths are making their voices heard about issues closest to their hearts — from climate change to employment to gender justice.
The pandemic has urged youth to focus health-related needs of their family and their loved ones, and they have made astute decisions while completely understanding the currently stretched healthcare delivery system. These voices must be enabled to look out for the community at large, and not restrict it to their homes. As a nation, we need to amplify voices of the youth and involve them into working towards the universal healthcare goals and make them the change agents of a better India.
