Facts About Mental Health in India

Mental health is an important part of our overall well-being. Just like we take care of our body, we need to take care of our mind too. In India, mental health is often not talked about enough. But that is slowly changing.

Let’s look at some important facts about mental health in India — some may surprise you, and others may inspire you to care more for yourself and others.

1. One in Every Seven Indians Has a Mental Health Issue

A report by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) shows that about 197 million people in India were affected by mental health problems in 2017. That means 1 in every 7 people in India may have experienced issues like depression, anxiety, or substance use problems.

This means almost every family knows someone who may be struggling.

2. There Are Not Enough Mental Health Professionals

India has a shortage of mental health workers like psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors. The World Health Organization (WHO) suggests having at least 3 mental health professionals per 100,000 people, but India has less than 1.

Many people, especially in small towns or villages, cannot get the help they need.

3. Stigma Keeps People from Getting Help

Even today, many people are afraid to talk about mental health. They worry they’ll be judged, blamed, or seen as weak. Some families still believe mental illness is a sign of bad behavior or something to hide.

This stigma stops people from asking for support — even when they really need it.

4. Suicide Is a Major Public Health Issue

India has one of the highest suicide rates in the world. Suicide is the leading cause of death for young people aged 15–39, according to the National Crime Records Bureau (2022). Many of these deaths happen because people are not able to get the mental health care they need in time.

Social support systems and early mental health interventions can save lives.

5. More People Are Seeking Therapy — But Access Is Uneven

There is some good news: more people are now talking about mental health and reaching out for help. According to a 2023 article in LiveMint, India has seen a 15–20% increase in people seeking therapy, especially after COVID-19. Also, 47% of Indians now say that mental health is just as important as physical health (Deloitte India, 2022).

But not everyone can find help. The National Mental Health Survey (2016) says that only 33% of people who need help actually get it. Those in rural areas, the LGBTQIA+ community, or low-income groups face more barriers due to cost, distance, or lack of inclusive support.

Awareness is growing, but access needs to improve — especially for those who need it the most.

What Can We Do?

• Talk openly about mental health — at home, school, and work

• Learn and share facts to reduce fear and stigma

• Support friends and family who are struggling

• Reach out to a counselor or therapist when you need help — it’s okay to ask

• Push for better mental health services in your area

Mental health matters — to all of us. Whether you're dealing with stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, or just having a tough week, you're not alone. Help is available, and healing is possible. As more people in India speak up and seek support, we move closer to a kinder and healthier society.

If you need someone to talk to or simply want to learn more about managing your mental health, you can book a session with us here. We’re here to support you.

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References

1. Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI), and IHME. (2017). India: Health of the Nation’s States.

2. World Health Organization. (2022). Mental Health Atlas. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240036703

3. National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB). (2022). Accidental Deaths and Suicides in India.

4. Deloitte India. (2022). Mental Health & Well-being in the Workplace. https://www2.deloitte.com/in/en/pages/about-deloitte/articles/mental-health-survey.html

5. LiveMint. (2023). More Indians Seeking Therapy as Mental Health Awareness Rises. https://www.livemint.com/news/india/more-indians-seeking-therapy-11687264783252.html

6. National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS). (2016). National Mental Health Survey of India. https://main.mohfw.gov.in/sites/default/files/National%20Mental%20Health%20Survey%20of%20India%2C%202015-16.pdf