- Treatment Gap Remains Alarming
- Suicide Rates Continue Rising
- A Deepening Mental Health Crisis
Article Today, Hyderabad:
India is facing a serious mental health challenge. Every day, lakhs of people struggle with stress, anxiety and depression. However, the healthcare system meant to support them remains weak and underprepared. While the number of those needing care is enormous, the availability of services is limited. This growing gap is leading to severe social and personal consequences.
Large Treatment Gap
Across the country, mental healthcare remains out of reach for a majority of patients. Experts estimate that nearly 80 to 85 per cent of people suffering from mental disorders do not receive any form of professional treatment. This gap, commonly referred to as the treatment gap, means that most patients never reach a hospital or a trained doctor. As a result, manageable conditions often worsen and become life threatening.
Severe Shortage of Specialists
One of the main reasons for poor access to care is the acute shortage of mental health professionals. With a population exceeding 140 crore, India has only about 9,000 practising psychiatrists. This translates to far less than one psychiatrist per one lakh people. Global health standards recommend at least three to five psychiatrists for the same population size. The situation is even more critical in rural areas, where mental health services are almost absent.
Limited Budget Allocation
In addition, public spending on mental health remains extremely low. Less than one per cent of the total health budget is allocated to this sector. In contrast, several developed nations spend between 10 and 15 per cent of their health budgets on mental healthcare. Most of the limited funds in India are concentrated in urban hospitals, leaving primary health centres without counselling facilities or trained staff.
Rising Suicide Numbers
Meanwhile, the impact of inadequate care is reflected in rising suicide rates. India records nearly 1.7 lakh suicides every year. A large proportion of these deaths are linked to untreated mental health conditions. Studies suggest that timely identification and treatment could prevent up to 70 per cent of such deaths. However, the lack of access continues to delay intervention.
