Md. Mukhlesur Rahman: The world has entered an era of unprecedented advancement in technology, economics, and science. Humanity is reaching the moon, artificial intelligence is transforming every sphere of life, and medical science continues to achieve remarkable breakthroughs. Yet behind this visible progress, human civilization is confronting another profound crisis — the deterioration of mental health.According to a recent international study, more than 1.2 billion people worldwide are currently suffering from one form of mental health problem or another. Anxiety, depression, loneliness, behavioral disorders, and emotional instability are no longer merely personal struggles; they have evolved into a global public health crisis.Research published in the renowned medical journal The Lancet indicates that the prevalence of mental disorders has nearly doubled compared to 1990. Particularly alarming is the sharp increase in conditions such as anxiety disorders and major depressive disorder. Most concerning, however, is that the primary victims of this crisis are becoming the younger generation, especially adolescents aged 15 to 19.This reality is not solely a medical issue; it also reflects deep-rooted social, cultural, and economic problems. The question is: humanity has advanced so far technologically — but why are people becoming increasingly fragile mentally?One of the primary reasons lies in the nature of modern lifestyles. As people become more dependent on technology, they are simultaneously becoming more disconnected from family, society, and nature. In the past, individuals derived emotional strength from family ties, neighborhood relationships, and social interactions. Today, in urban life, people often feel lonely despite being surrounded by millions. Although social media was meant to enhance human connection, it has instead intensified comparison, frustration, and dissatisfaction among many individuals.Studies have shown that excessive use of social media significantly increases the risk of anxiety and depression among teenagers. Prolonged screen exposure, overdependence on virtual validation, and weakening real-life relationships are disrupting psychological balance.At the same time, the modern economic system continuously imposes immense pressure on people. Competition, uncertainty, job insecurity, rising living costs, and family instability collectively create a state of persistent mental exhaustion. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, this crisis became even more severe. Lockdowns, isolation, unemployment, and social disconnection shattered the emotional stability of millions across the globe.However, another important dimension of this crisis also deserves attention — the issue of overdiagnosis. Today, ordinary sadness, disappointment, or natural emotional fluctuations are often rapidly classified as mental disorders. In particular, the increasing rates of diagnoses such as autism and ADHD among children have sparked debates in many countries.This also raises questions regarding the commercial interests of pharmaceutical companies. Mental health awareness is undoubtedly essential; however, if such awareness evolves into an unnecessarily medication-dependent culture, it may create new forms of danger. In many cases, rather than addressing the social or psychological roots of problems, societies are becoming increasingly reliant on quick pharmaceutical solutions.In countries like Bangladesh, the mental health situation is also alarming, although awareness and healthcare infrastructure remain extremely limited. Many people still perceive mental illness as “madness” or a source of social shame. As a result, countless individuals either avoid seeking treatment or fail to receive timely support. Open discussions about mental well-being in educational institutions, families, and workplaces are still insufficient.Yet mental health can no longer be neglected. A mentally unhealthy society can never move sustainably toward development. Anxious, depressed, and socially disconnected individuals cannot build healthy families, productive economies, or compassionate societies.To confront this crisis, medicine and hospitals alone are not enough; what is needed is a humane and balanced social environment. Strong family relationships, emotionally supportive behavior toward children, counseling facilities in educational institutions, moderation in social media use, and greater participation in sports and cultural activities must all be prioritized. Simultaneously, mental healthcare services must become more accessible and free from social stigma.Above all, humanity must return to a more human-centered philosophy of life. Economic growth, technological progress, and material success alone cannot guarantee happiness. Human beings need mental peace, social connection, and a meaningful sense of purpose in order to truly thrive.The mental health crisis is the silent pandemic of the modern world. It may not always be visible, but it is gradually eroding the stability and humanity within society itself. Therefore, unless families, states, and communities collectively take effective action now, the future world may become technologically advanced — yet increasingly isolated, exhausted, and emotionally unwell.Md. Mukhlesur Rahman is the Former Member, Board of Directors, Islami Bank Medical College & Hospital Rajshahi and Islami Bank Foundation Dhaka.