Background

Mental health has been a long-neglected aspect of healthcare in India, despite its significant impact on a considerable portion of the population. Unfortunately, stigma surrounding mental illness remains deeply ingrained in Indian society, hindering open discussion and awareness. Consequently, seeking help becomes a challenge, contributing to discrimination and social exclusion. A 2016 report by the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences revealed that the prevalence of mental illness in India stands at approximately 10-20%, with depression and anxiety disorders being the most common. However, mental health services in the country are severely deficient, with a ratio of one psychiatrist for every 343,000 people, compared to one for every 10,000 individuals in high-income nations.

Moreover, there are significant disparities in accessing mental health care across India. Urban areas generally offer better services and a higher concentration of mental health professionals, while rural regions often lack adequate support. Marginalized communities, such as Dalits, Adivasis, and LGBTQ+ individuals, face even greater hurdles due to discrimination and social exclusion. The COVID-19 pandemic has further underscored the importance of mental health in India, with its impact being particularly severe. Pre-existing mental health issues have worsened, and new challenges have emerged as many individuals experience anxiety, depression, and other conditions stemming from social isolation, financial strain, and the fear of contracting the virus. Thus, there is an urgent need to enhance awareness and access to mental health services in India to improve the well-being of its vast population.