How Is India’s Mental Health? Government Launches Nationwide Survey After 9 Years

New Delhi: In a major step towards understanding the true state of mental health in the country, the Central Government has launched a nationwide National Mental Health Survey (NMHS-2) after a gap of nine years. The survey aims to assess the prevalence, patterns, and impact of mental health conditions across India, many of which often go undiagnosed and untreated until they become severe.

Mental health experts note that a large number of individuals remain unaware that they are suffering from mental health disorders. As a result, timely treatment is missed, leading to a gradual worsening of their condition. Keeping this in mind, the government has initiated this comprehensive survey to generate reliable and updated data for effective policy planning.

First Pan-India Coverage Since COVID-19

For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, the survey will cover all States and Union Territories. The study is being conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, one of the country’s premier mental health institutions.

The NMHS-2 will include:

• Adolescents aged 13–17 years
• All adults aged 18 years and above

This marks a significant expansion compared to the previous survey conducted in 2015–16, which covered only 12 states.

Alarming Findings From Previous Data

Data from the earlier NMHS highlighted the seriousness of the challenge. The 2015–16 survey found that:

• 10.6% of Indian adults were suffering from mental disorders at the time of the survey
• 13.7% were estimated to experience mental illness at some point in their lifetime

National studies further suggest that nearly 15% of India’s adult population requires clinical mental health care. The burden was found to be higher in urban areas (13.5%) compared to rural areas (6.9%).

State-wise Estimates and Resource Mapping

According to the Ministry of Health, NMHS-2 will generate state-wise as well as national estimates of priority mental health conditions. The survey will assess:

• Disability caused by mental illnesses
• Social and economic burden on individuals and families
• Patterns of care and utilization of mental health services

Additionally, the survey will include comprehensive mapping of mental health services and resources across States and Union Territories.

Focus on Vulnerable and High-Risk Groups

The scope of NMHS-2 has been widened to study the mental health impact on vulnerable populations, including:

• Children and adolescents
• Women
• Senior citizens
• Migrant workers
• Tribal communities

It will also examine the effects of climate change, disasters, and displacement on mental well-being, helping identify high-risk and underserved regions.

Strengthening Policy and Care Delivery

Health officials believe the findings will play a crucial role in strengthening the National Mental Health Programme, improving resource allocation, and guiding future policy decisions, particularly for regions with limited facilities and higher mental health risks.

The survey is expected to provide a clearer picture of India’s mental health landscape and lay the foundation for more inclusive, accessible, and effective mental health care across the country.