Why do over 80% of people with mental health disorders in India not receive timely care?

Deep-rooted stigma, lack of awareness, and inadequate integration of mental health services into primary healthcare are the primary reasons.

What are the consequences of delayed psychiatric care in India?

Delayed care often leads to more severe and chronic illness, greater disability, family distress, loss of productivity, and increased suicide risk.

What is the Indian Psychiatric Society doing about mental health access?

The Indian Psychiatric Society is raising awareness about the treatment gap and advocating for urgent national attention and better integration of mental health services.

Home / Health / 80% Mentally Ill in India Lack Care: Experts Warn

80% Mentally Ill in India Lack Care: Experts Warn

3 Jan

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Summary

Over 80% of individuals with mental health disorders in India don't get timely care.
Deep-rooted stigma and lack of awareness are major barriers to treatment.
Urgent national attention is needed to integrate mental health into primary care.

80% Mentally Ill in India Lack Care: Experts Warn

A significant majority of individuals in India grappling with mental health conditions are not receiving essential psychiatric care, according to mental health experts speaking at an event in Delhi. An estimated 80-85% of those affected remain outside the formal healthcare system, facing delays that can worsen their conditions and lead to chronic illness and disability.

This critical treatment gap, with over 85% of people with common mental disorders not seeking or receiving treatment, underscores the profound impact of stigma and inadequate awareness. Experts stress that mental illnesses are highly treatable when identified early and managed appropriately, calling the situation a social, economic, and developmental issue demanding urgent national focus.

While government initiatives like the Tele-MANAS helpline and expanded District Mental Health Programme are positive developments, experts assert that these efforts must be significantly scaled up. Strengthening community-based services and training primary care doctors are crucial steps to bridge the gap and address the rising rates of morbidity, mortality, and suicide linked to untreated mental illness.