How is India tackling mental health crisis?, Pg13

Key Highlights:

• The Economic Survey recently highlighted the rise in digital addiction and screen-related mental health issues, especially among the youth.
• The Union Budget announced plans to establish a second NIMHANS in north India and upgrade institutions in Ranchi and Tezpur.
• India accounts for approximately one-third of the world's suicides, depression, and addiction cases.
• Tele MANAS, a 24/7 mental health support initiative, was launched on October 10, 2022, with 53 operational cells across 36 States/UTs.

Detailed Insights:

• India faces a significant mental health burden, with suicide being a leading cause of death among individuals aged 15-29.
• The WHO estimates that India could face economic losses of $1.03 trillion between 2012 and 2030 due to mental health conditions.
• A large percentage (70-92%) of individuals with mental disorders in India do not receive proper treatment due to factors like lack of awareness and stigma.
• India has approximately 0.75 psychiatrists per 1,00,000 people, significantly lower than the WHO recommendation of at least three per 1,00,000.
• The government has integrated mental health services into Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs), upgrading over 1.73 lakh sub-health and primary health centers.
• Mental health allocation has increased from ₹683 crore in 2020-21 to about ₹1,898 crore in 2024-25, but remains a small portion of the total health budget.
• Experts suggest that budgetary allocations for mental health should prioritize community-based, early-intervention models for better fund utilization.
• Addressing the mental health crisis requires affordable access, continuity of care, and timely treatment, which are currently lacking.
• The Health Ministry is emphasizing a "whole-of-community" approach, integrating mental well-being into school curricula and workplace policies.

Key Concepts Involved:

• NIMHANS: Premier institute for mental health and neurosciences.
• Ayushman Bharat: Government scheme to provide affordable healthcare.
• Tele MANAS: Government initiative providing 24/7 mental health support.