Why in news?
Mental health problems have increased across the world after the disruptions caused by the COVID‑19 pandemic. In July 2025 the government highlighted mental health in Parliament and rolled out digital helplines. The United Nations has also been urging countries to invest in mental health care. These developments brought mental wellness into the public conversation.
Understanding mental health
Mental health refers to a person’s emotional and psychological well‑being. A mentally healthy person can cope with normal stresses, work productively and contribute to community life. Conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia affect thoughts, feelings and behaviour. They may be caused by genetic factors, physical illness, traumatic experiences, substance abuse or social isolation.
Characteristics of good mental health
- Resilience: Ability to adapt to changes and recover from setbacks.
- Emotional regulation: Recognising and expressing feelings in a balanced way.
- Positive relationships: Building and maintaining supportive connections with family and friends.
- Sense of purpose: Feeling that life has meaning and direction.
Challenges facing mental health in India
- High burden: Millions live with mental disorders, yet only a small fraction seek treatment because of shame and lack of awareness.
- Shortage of professionals: India has far fewer psychiatrists, psychologists and social workers than needed. Most services are in cities, leaving rural areas underserved.
- Stigma and discrimination: People with mental illness often face ridicule or are accused of being weak, which discourages them from seeking help.
- Inadequate insurance coverage: Health insurance often excludes mental illness or offers low reimbursements.
Government and global initiatives
- Mental Healthcare Act 2017: Enshrines the right to affordable and good‑quality mental health care, prohibits discrimination and provides for advance directives.
- National Mental Health Programme: Integrates mental health services into district hospitals and primary health centres.
- Tele‑MANAS helpline: A 24×7 tele‑counselling service launched in 2022. It has been expanded to reach all states and provides support in local languages.
- National Suicide Prevention Strategy: Aims to reduce suicide rates through community awareness, crisis helplines and restricting access to means of suicide.
- Global efforts: The World Health Organization’s QualityRights initiative promotes human rights in mental health care. Countries are sharing best practices through international conferences.
Way forward
Mental health must be treated on par with physical health. This requires increased public investment, more training for doctors and counsellors, and integration of mental health services into primary care. Schools and workplaces should provide counselling and create supportive environments. Public campaigns can normalise conversations about stress, addiction and depression. Digital platforms and tele‑medicine can deliver therapy to remote areas, provided that data privacy is protected. Finally, families and communities must show compassion so that those who suffer feel safe to seek help.