India's Mental Health Crisis: Experts Advocate for Comprehensive Solutions

The Economic Survey has highlighted a rise in mental health issues among Indians and called for a comprehensive approach to address the problem. Experts stress the need for increased accessibility to mental health resources, raised awareness, reduced stigma, and robust support systems, while addressing work pressure and societal expectations.

With the Economic Survey flagging a rise in mental health issues among Indians and calling for a paradigm shift in addressing the problem, experts on Monday noted it is an unaddressed health crisis in India.

They called for increased accessibility to mental health resources, raised awareness, reduced stigma, and the development of robust support systems to tackle the issue, while emphasizing the need to address contributing factors such as work pressure and societal expectations.

"Mental health problems are an unaddressed health crisis in India. Nearly 20 percent of people live with mental health problems in India. Depression and anxiety are common causes of disability. There is a treatment gap of more than 80 percent," said Achal Bhagat, Senior Consultant Psychiatrist and Psychotherapist at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, Delhi.

The indirect economic cost of loss of livelihoods due to mental health issues is significantly high, not only for those living with these problems but also due to the loss of livelihoods for caregivers, Bhagat added.

Shambhavi Jaiman, Consultant Psychiatrist at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram, highlighted the substantial impact on productivity, reflecting broader implications for societal well-being and economic stability.

Jaiman pointed out that work pressure, societal expectations, financial worries, and insufficient support systems create a complex web of stressors requiring comprehensive solutions. She stressed the importance of increasing accessibility to mental health resources, raising awareness, reducing stigma, and developing robust support systems.

"Creating a supportive environment where mental health is prioritized is essential for fostering a healthier, more productive society," Jaiman said.

Sameer Malhotra, Senior Director and Head of the Department of Mental Health and Behavioural Sciences at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, noted that growing consumerism, excessive competition, shrinking social and family support networks, and the increased pace of life contribute to rising mental health issues globally.

"Disturbed mindsets influence concentration, productivity at work, and economics as well," he added.

The Economic Survey 2023-24 called for a paradigm shift towards a bottom-up, whole-of-community approach to addressing mental health problems in India. While India is creating positive momentum in policy development by recognizing mental health as a fundamental aspect of overall well-being, the survey noted gaps in existing programs and the need for proper implementation to maximize effectiveness.

The survey emphasized the importance of breaking the stigma associated with mental health issues and taking a community-centric approach to address the topic comprehensively.

(With inputs from agencies.)