Mental health is a significant concern worldwide, and India is no exception. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental illness accounts for 13% of the global burden of disease. In India, however, the situation is much worse. Mental health disorders are prevalent in the country, with a significant proportion of the population suffering from mental illnesses.
According to the National Mental Health Survey (NMHS) conducted in 2016, nearly 15% of the Indian population, which amounts to 197 million people, suffers from some form of mental health disorder. These disorders include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders. Among them, depression and anxiety are the most common mental health disorders, affecting over 45 million people.
Suicide is a significant public health concern in India. According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), 1,39,123 people died by suicide in 2019, which amounts to one suicide every four minutes. The suicide rate in India is 16.5 suicides per 100,000 people, which is higher than the global average of 10.5 per 100,000 people.
India has a severe shortage of mental health infrastructure, with only 0.29 psychiatrists per 100,000 people, which is much lower than the WHO’s recommended ratio of one psychiatrist per 10,000 people. There are only 43 government-run mental hospitals and 389 psychiatric facilities in the country. This inadequate infrastructure hinders access to mental health care for millions of people who need it.
Stigma surrounding mental health is a significant barrier to seeking help in India. The National Mental Health Survey found that only 10-12% of people with mental health disorders sought help from a mental health professional. Many people fear discrimination, social isolation, and job loss if they disclose their mental health condition to others. The stigma is particularly pronounced in rural areas, where people may not be aware of mental health disorders and seek help from traditional healers.
Mental health disorders have a significant economic impact on individuals, families, and society. According to a study by the Lancet Commission, the cost of mental health disorders in India was estimated to be 1.03 trillion rupees (approximately $14 billion) in 2017. This cost includes the cost of treatment, lost productivity, and premature death. The study also estimated that the economic burden of mental health disorders in India would increase to 1.45 trillion rupees (approximately $19.5 billion) by 2025.
In conclusion, the mental health statistics of India paint a grim picture. Mental health disorders are prevalent in the country, and suicide rates are alarmingly high. The shortage of mental health infrastructure, coupled with the stigma surrounding mental health, hinders access to care for millions of people who need it. The economic burden of mental health disorders is significant, highlighting the need for investment in mental health care. It is essential to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and increase access to mental health care to improve the mental health of the Indian population.
