India’s mental health problem is an unresolved health crisis: Experts

India is facing a significant mental health problem that requires urgent attention and a transformative approach. The Economic Survey has highlighted the increasing prevalence of mental health issues among Indians, emphasizing the need for a community-driven strategy to address this pressing concern. Contrary to popular belief, mental health problems have a more substantial impact on productivity than physical health issues within the societal ecosystem, making it not only a health imperative but also an economic one.

The Scope of the Mental Health Problem

The National Mental Health Survey (NMHS) reveals alarming statistics about the mental health problem in India. Approximately 10.6% of Indian adults suffer from mental disorders, with a staggering treatment gap ranging from 70% to 92% across various conditions. Urban metro regions report higher mental morbidity rates (13.5%) compared to rural areas (6.9%) and urban non-metro regions (4.3%). Researchers, including Dhyani et al. (2022), have identified that individuals aged 25-44 years are most affected by mental illnesses.

The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated the mental health problem, particularly among adolescents. The NCERT’s Mental Health and Well-being of School Students Survey paints a concerning picture: 11% of students feel anxious, 14% experience extreme emotions, and 43% struggle with mood swings. Academic stress, especially related to studies and examinations, compounds these issues.

The mental health problem extends beyond individual well-being, having substantial economic implications. Mental health disorders lead to absenteeism, decreased productivity, disability, and increased healthcare costs. While India has made progress in recognizing mental health as a fundamental aspect of overall well-being, effective implementation of mental health programs remains a challenge.

Addressing the Mental Health Problem: A Community-Driven Approach

To tackle the growing mental health problem in India, a paradigm shift is necessary. The Economic Survey calls for a bottom-up, whole-of-community approach to address mental health issues effectively. This approach involves:

1. Breaking the stigma: Public health officials must acknowledge the reluctance to seek help and actively encourage individuals to do so. The fear of social attitudes and acceptance after disclosing mental health struggles often leads to denial and avoidance of treatment.
2. Early intervention in schools: Integrating mental health interventions in schools through age-appropriate curricula is crucial. This includes promoting early intervention, using positive language, engaging the community, and encouraging thoughtful technology use.
3. Addressing technology-related issues: The rise in mental health problems among children and adolescents is often linked to excessive internet and social media use. A 2021 study by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights highlights that 23.8% of children use smartphones while in bed, and 37.2% experience reduced concentration due to smartphone use. Implementing strategies to promote responsible technology use is essential in addressing this aspect of the mental health problem.
4. Improving access to treatment: Closing the significant treatment gap for mental health disorders is crucial. This involves increasing the availability of mental health professionals, improving mental health literacy, and reducing barriers to seeking help.
5. Workplace initiatives: Given the economic impact of mental health problems, implementing workplace programs that support employee mental health and well-being is essential.

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