WHO’s Reports on World Mental Health

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has released critical reports highlighting the global burden of mental health issues.

1. Global Burden of Mental Health Disorders

• 13.6% of the global population is affected by mental disorders (age-standardized prevalence), with the prevalence rising faster than the global population between 2011-2021.

2. Most Common Mental Disorders

• Anxiety and depression together account for over two-thirds of all mental health cases worldwide.

  • Anxiety tends to begin earlier, often during childhood or adolescence.

  • Depression becomes more common after the age of 40, peaking between 50-69 years.

3. Demographic Trends

• Young adults (ages 20–29) have seen the highest increase (1.8%) in the prevalence of mental disorders since 2011.

• Males have higher rates of disorders like ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and intellectual disabilities.

• Females have higher rates of anxiety, depressive, and eating disorders.

4. Suicide

• Suicide is responsible for 1 in 100 deaths globally, and it remains the leading cause of death among young people.

• Current projections indicate that suicide mortality will decline by only 12% by 2030, which is far below the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target of a one-third reduction.

Mental Health in India

1. Prevalence of Mental Disorders

• According to the National Mental Health Survey (NMHS) 2015-16, around 10.6% of Indian adults suffer from mental disorders. The prevalence is higher in urban areas (13.5%) than in rural areas (6.9%).

2. Treatment Gaps

• Between 70% to 92% of those affected by mental health issues do not receive appropriate treatment due to stigma, lack of awareness, and a shortage of trained professionals.

• India has 0.75 psychiatrists per 100,000 people, whereas WHO recommends 3 psychiatrists per 100,000.

3. Mental Health Infrastructure

• India has made strides in mental health integration:

  • National Mental Health Programme (NMHP, 1982) integrates mental health care into general health care.

  • Ayushman Bharat aims to upgrade health centers to provide mental health services.

  • NIMHANS Act, 2012: National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences was designated an Institute of National Importance.

  • Mental Healthcare Act, 2017: Guarantees the right to mental healthcare, decriminalizes suicide, and ensures dignity for individuals.

4. National Strategies

• National Suicide Prevention Strategy (NSPS, 2022) aims to reduce suicide mortality by 10% by 2030, focusing on early intervention, crisis management, and mental health promotion.

• Digital Initiatives:

  • iGOT-Diksha: Trains healthcare professionals and community workers in mental health.

  • National Tele Mental Health Programme (Tele MANAS, 2022): Provides 24/7 mental health support through a toll-free helpline in 20 languages.

Why Mental Health is an Ethical Issue

Mental health isn’t just a medical concern—it’s also an ethical issue that affects individuals, communities, and society as a whole.

1. Equitable Mental Health Access

• Mental health is an essential part of the right to life under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. Neglecting it undermines human dignity and the ability to live a meaningful life.

• Uneven access, particularly in rural areas, exacerbates the divide. There is an ethical responsibility to ensure equitable distribution of mental health resources.

2. Autonomy and Freedom of Choice

• Stigma and discrimination often prevent individuals from seeking care or making informed decisions. It is crucial to ensure that individuals have the freedom to access support without fear of prejudice or social exclusion.

3. Duty to Prevent Harm

• Workplaces, schools, and governments have an obligation to reduce harmful stressors and prevent avoidable suffering—whether it’s suicides or work-related mental distress. Ignoring these responsibilities is ethically wrong.

4. Compassion and Empathy

• Small acts of respect, inclusion, and kindness go a long way in supporting mental well-being. An ethical society is one that recognizes and responds to the suffering of others.

5. Collective Good

• Untreated mental health issues can affect productivity, social cohesion, and public safety. Addressing mental health is not just about charity; it is a social obligation for the good of society.

Conclusion

Mental health is a global challenge that demands urgent action. In India, addressing this issue is not only a matter of health policy but also an ethical responsibility. By improving access to mental health care, addressing treatment gaps, and promoting inclusive practices, India can move towards a more equitable and compassionate society, ensuring the well-being of all individuals. Efforts like digital health initiatives, early intervention strategies, and suicide prevention programs are steps in the right direction, but much more remains to be done