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India's Mental Health Crisis: How Tele MANAS and Ayushman Bharat Are Fighting Back

India faces a significant mental health challenge with over 10% of adults affected by diagnosable disorders. The country has implemented crucial initiatives like Tele MANAS and integrated mental health into primary care through Ayushman Bharat. Women show higher prevalence of conditions like depression and anxiety compared to men. Despite progress, suicide rates remain concerning with over 170,000 reported cases in 2023.

Key Points: India Mental Health Progress Tele MANAS Ayushman Bharat Initiatives

  • Women show higher mental disorder prevalence at 20% compared to men's 10%
  • Over 1.75 lakh health centers upgraded to provide mental health services
  • Suicide rates reveal gender disparity with males accounting for 72.8% of cases
  • Ayushman Bharat covers mental health with Rs 5 lakh annual insurance per family
2 min read

India makes significant strides to address mental health issues

India tackles mental health crisis with Tele MANAS helpline and Ayushman Bharat integration, covering 10.6% adults with disorders and rising suicide rates through digital solutions.

"About 10.6 per cent of Indian adults were living with a diagnosable mental health disorder - National Mental Health Survey"

New Delhi, Nov 10

Mental health remains a pressing global challenge and while India has made significant strides through initiatives like Tele MANAS and the National Mental Health Programme, building a mentally healthier society requires strengthening awareness, expanding workforce training and investing in digital solutions, according to government data.

About 10.6 per cent of Indian adults -- roughly 11 out of every 100 adults -- were living with a diagnosable mental health disorder, according to a 2015-16 National Mental Health Survey (NMHS) conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS).

According to a NIMHANS study from 2019, mental health disorders are more prevalent among women (20 per cent) than men (10 per cent). Women in India are found to be particularly more prone to conditions like depression, anxiety, and somatic complaints compared to their male counterparts.

Suicide rates in India are on the rise. According to the 2023 National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) report ‘Accidental Deaths & Suicides in India’, 171,418 suicides were reported in the country in 2023 and the NCRB report revealed a significant gender disparity in suicides: males accounted for 72.8 per cent of all suicides, while females accounted for 27.2 per cent.

Recognising mental healthcare as a vital component of overall well-being, India has taken a major step toward universal health coverage by integrating mental health services into primary care through Ayushman Arogya Mandirs under the Ayushman Bharat initiative.

Under the Ayushman Bharat initiative, over 1.75 lakh Sub Health Centres (SHCs) and Primary Health Centres (PHCs) have been upgraded into Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, where mental health services are now an integral part of Comprehensive Primary Health Care.

This integration ensures accessible and inclusive mental health support at the grassroots level.

Through Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY, mental health conditions are covered under a Rs 5 lakh per family annual insurance, with over 1.35 lakh admissions worth Rs 120.19 crore authorised between FY 2021-22 to FY 2023-24.

During the pandemic, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare launched a 24/7 national helpline (080-4611 0007) to provide psychosocial support and counselling for individuals affected by stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
The statistics about women's mental health are concerning. 20% prevalence rate is quite high. We need to address the societal pressures and stigma that prevent women from seeking help. Family support systems need to be stronger.
D
David E
While the initiatives are commendable, I'm concerned about the implementation at ground level. In my district, the Ayushman Arogya Mandirs still don't have trained mental health professionals. Good policies need proper execution.
A
Ananya R
The insurance coverage of ₹5 lakh under PM-JAY is a huge relief for middle-class families. Mental health treatment can be expensive and this makes it accessible. Hope more people utilize this benefit.
S
Sarah B
The high suicide rates among men (72.8%) is alarming but not surprising. Men in our society are taught to suppress emotions and "be strong." We need to change this mindset and create safe spaces for men to express vulnerability.
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Vikram M
Digital solutions like tele-consultations are the way forward. But we need to ensure internet connectivity reaches every village. Also, more regional language support in mental health apps would help bridge the urban-rural divide.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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