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Written By: Sponsored | Published : October 12, 2023 12:40 PM IST
Mental health, often a silent and overlooked facet of overall well-being, has emerged as a critical concern in the societal fabric of India. As the nation grapples with the intricate dynamics of a rapidly evolving world, the burden of mental health issues becomes increasingly palpable.
Over the recent years, the prevalence of mental health disorders in India has steadily increased, heightening concerns for public health. Estimates indicate that nearly 15% of the Indian population struggles with various mental health issues. This statistic encompasses a wide range of disorders. In 2016, the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences conducted the National Mental Health Survey, which approximated that around 10.6% of India's population, aged 18 and above, grappled with mental health disorders.
Suresh Venkatachari, the visionary behind the Healthcare Triangle, asserts, "Individuals from diverse backgrounds and age groups find themselves pushed to a state of desperation. Mental health issues stemming from various factors such as mounting financial stress, mental health issues, chronic pain, and societal pressures, can ultimately drive individuals to the brink of hopelessness." Suicide has been prominently featured in the news in India recently especially while talking about students. It is a profoundly sorrowful but preventable act, he adds.
According to the National Crime Record Bureau's (NCRB) recent report titled 'Mental Health Care and Its Management in Contemporary Times (2023), each suicide is a personal tragedy with a far-reaching impact. The reveals that over 100,000 people commit suicide annually in India, reflecting a 7.2% increase in 2021 compared to 2020.
Among those aged 15 to 30, suicide stands as the leading cause of death, notably the highest globally in this demographic. The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data for 2020 revealed a distressing statistic: a student took their life every 42 minutes, equating to 34 student suicides daily. Additionally, in the same year, 11,396 children under the age of 18 had tragically ended their lives.
"In the disheartening narrative of mental health among students, these haunting numbers echo every 42 minutes, marking the loss of another student's life. Young souls succumb to the silent struggles of their minds, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive mental health support and awareness in the educational landscape." Shares Suresh Venkatachari Healthcare Triangle.
At the root of all mental health issues is the lack of support and infrastructure. Many people in India do not have access to facilities or basic knowledge of mental health disorders. Commenting on the dearth of mental health practitioners in India, the founder of Healthcare Triangle highlights the report published by the Parliamentary Standing Committee. It indicates that nearly all states in India encounter challenges in the availability of mental health professionals.
The recommended standard is one psychiatrist per lakh of the population for optimal treatment levels. However, due to a notably low number of trained psychiatrists, proper treatment services are deficient for a majority of the population. For example, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan currently have less than 0.2 psychiatrists per lakh available. In contrast, Punjab and West Bengal have approximately 0.6 psychiatrists per lakh.
Seeing these numbers, the state of mental health issues in India seems to be in dire straits. So what is the government doing to tackle these problems?
The Government of India has implemented various initiatives to address mental health challenges and enhance mental healthcare services across the country. The National Mental Health Programme (NMHP), launched in 1982, is a key effort focusing on accessible and affordable mental health services. Under NMHP, the District Mental Health Programme operates at the grassroots level to facilitate early intervention and treatment. Recognizing the shortage of mental health professionals, the government constantly executes Manpower Development Schemes, establishing Centers of Excellence and strengthening mental health departments.
The Mental Health Care Act of 2017 and the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act of 2016 provide legal frameworks, recognizing mental illness as a disability and safeguarding the rights of individuals. Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) incorporates mental health services, and telemedicine guidelines enable remote access to counseling.
Additionally, awareness campaigns, including those on World Mental Health Day, contribute to reducing stigma and promoting mental well-being. Continuous collaboration between the government, healthcare professionals, NGOs, and the community remains crucial to addressing persisting challenges and further improving mental health services in India.
During the presentation of the Union Budget for the fiscal year 2022-2023, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled the National Tele Mental Health Programme in response to the lingering effects of 'long Covid.' The initiative aims to provide improved access to quality mental health counseling and care services.
The government also announced the launch of an open platform for the National Digital Health Ecosystem, incorporating digital registries of health providers and facilities, a unique health identity, a consent framework, and universal access to health facilities.
Appreciating this strategic move Suresh Venkatachari says, "This decision, not only seeks to normalize mental health awareness but also addresses the associated stigma. Such national-level initiatives are anticipated to bring lasting changes, fostering a common platform for dialogue on the importance of mental health.
As an evangelist in the digital arena, Suresh Venkatachari believes that these initiatives not only enhance access to quality mental health services but also set the stage for a future where technology and awareness converge to destigmatize mental health. This marks a pivotal moment, where national initiatives pave the way for a healthier dialogue and understanding, reshaping the future of mental well-being in our society.
(Above mentioned article is consumer connect initiative. This article is a paid publication and does not have journalistic/editorial involvement of DMCL, and DMCL claims no responsibility whatsoever)
