Depression in India: Expert talks about prevalence; the importance of combating it | Mental Health News

Mental Health News

Despite the increasing awareness, India is still far from the Western countries due to misconceptions about the causes and symptoms of depression. Stigma is still prevalent thus leading to fewer individuals reaching out for help. The nation struggles to provide proper mental health care, particularly in rural areas.

New Delhi: Depression is a common yet debilitating mental health disorder affecting millions across the globe. According to the DSM-5, major depressive disorder (MDD) is primarily marked by a depressed mood or loss of interest and pleasure in activities, lasting at least two weeks. Other symptoms may include weight changes, sleep disturbances, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, trouble concentrating, and thoughts of death or suicide. In adults, the most common symptoms are depressed mood, anhedonia, and feelings of worthlessness or guilt, while weight changes, excessive sleep, and motor changes are less frequent. According to a study from 2017 by Lancet, about 197 million people in India had mental health disorders. Statistics in India showed depression to be the most commonly occurring mental health problem, affecting 45.9 million people.

While talking about the prevalence of depression in India, Ashi Tomar, Senior Psychologist, Veda Rehabilitation & Wellness, said, “Despite its prevalence, depression remains a topic surrounded by stigma, with those affected frequently facing dismissive attitudes and social isolation. For years, mental health awareness in India was limited, and depression was often mistaken for simple “sadness”, a “phase,” or a lack of willpower. However, growing awareness is beginning to reshape India’s understanding of depression and mental health, helping people recognise the importance of compassionate support and appropriate treatment.”

Depression is more than just feeling sad; it is a serious, often chronic mental health condition that affects all aspects of life, including work, social and occupational life, relationships, as well as self-care. It changes the way people think, feel, and act and interferes with their daily functioning and the activities that they perform. Unlike sadness, which is usually triggered by specific events and fades over time, depression can persist for weeks, months, or even years without improvement. Symptoms include a pervasive sense of hopelessness, fatigue, loss of interest in activities once enjoyed, and difficulties with sleep and appetite. In severe cases, depression can lead to thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

The stigma around mental health is one of the largest barriers to seeking help in India. People experiencing depression are often labeled as “lazy,” “weak,” or “irresponsible,” perpetuating harmful stereotypes and forcing individuals to suppress their emotions. Families and communities may discourage people from discussing mental health, and individuals seeking help are often met with skepticism or judgment. This stigma not only prevents individuals from seeking help but also limits open discussions on mental health, creating a vicious cycle where ignorance and shame feed into each other. Fortunately, advocacy efforts, mental health awareness campaigns, and influential voices speaking openly about their mental health struggles are gradually shifting public perception.

Initiatives like the National Mental Health Program (NMHP) and social media campaigns have helped bring the conversation into the mainstream. Prominent Indian figures such as Deepika Padukone have candidly discussed their battles with depression, thereby making mental health challenges more relatable and reducing associated stigma. Their willingness to share personal experiences has inspired numerous individuals to openly express their struggles without the fear of judgment. Due to modernization, the younger generation i.e. Gen Z has a more progressive view now as compared to the older generation. Educational institutions, workplaces, and healthcare facilities are gradually becoming more equipped to offer support, reducing the isolation and fear that often accompanies mental health issues.

Despite the increasing awareness, India is still far from the Western countries due to misconceptions about the causes and symptoms of the disorder. Stigma is still prevalent thus leading to fewer individuals reaching out for help. The nation struggles to provide proper mental health care, particularly in rural areas.

Integrating mental health education into the school curriculum, training healthcare professionals to recognise and address mental health issues, and continuing public awareness campaigns are essential steps toward a more supportive environment. Building a compassionate culture that values mental health as much as physical health is critical to changing perceptions around depression. As more people openly share their experiences, and as educational efforts continue, the hope is that seeking help for mental health issues will become as normalised as visiting a doctor for physical ailments. Embracing mental health as an integral part of well-being not only benefits individuals but also strengthens families, communities, and society as a whole, paving the way for a more compassionate, healthy, and inclusive India.


Simran Arora

Simran Arora is a Chief Sub Editor for the health beat at News9. With 6 years of experience in the industry, she looks at news, features and every unique development in the health sector.

Read More

Next Article

Source link

  • Related Posts

    Telangana government launches caste census, comprehensive family survey | Hyderabad News

    Hyderabad News Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi said that caste census will form the foundation for policy making to make sure representation in government and education is fair for …

    Read more

    Bank locker charges: What are the locker charges in ICICI Bank? How much are locker charges in HDFC Bank? What is the charge for lockers in Axis Bank? | Personal Finance News

    Personal Finance News In this article, check out the bank locker charges of three top private banks in India – HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank and Axis Bank. …

    Read more

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    You Missed

    Hyderabad: Bandh in Shamshabad over temple vandalism | Hyderabad News

    Hyderabad: Bandh in Shamshabad over temple vandalism | Hyderabad News

    Sexual assault case: Nivin Pauly given clean chit by police; cites lack of evidence | Kerala News

    Sexual assault case: Nivin Pauly given clean chit by police; cites lack of evidence | Kerala News

    Tension in Bangladesh’s Chittagong after controversial Facebook post against Hindus, ISKCON | World News

    Tension in Bangladesh’s Chittagong after controversial Facebook post against Hindus, ISKCON | World News

    New PM E-DRIVE Scheme Boosts Electric Two-Wheelers, Snubs Electric & Hybrid Cars | Auto News

    New PM E-DRIVE Scheme Boosts Electric Two-Wheelers, Snubs Electric & Hybrid Cars | Auto News

    Taking 20 wickets to be a hurdle for India, Australia will win 3-1, says Ponting | Cricket News

    Taking 20 wickets to be a hurdle for India, Australia will win 3-1, says Ponting | Cricket News

    ICC Test rankings: Rishabh Pant enters top 10 after twin fifties in Mumbai Test | Cricket News

    ICC Test rankings: Rishabh Pant enters top 10 after twin fifties in Mumbai Test | Cricket News

    Cabinet clears Rs 10,700 crore fund infusion into FCI in boost to agrarian economy | Biz News

    Cabinet clears Rs 10,700 crore fund infusion into FCI in boost to agrarian economy | Biz News

    Apple Fined By EU For The FIRST Time, Here’s Why | Tech News

    Apple Fined By EU For The FIRST Time, Here’s Why | Tech News

    ‘No more wars’, assert US President elect Donald Trump in his victory speech | World News

    ‘No more wars’, assert US President elect Donald Trump in his victory speech | World News

    ICAI CA Final November 2024 exam postponed in these states due to elections | Edu News

    ICAI CA Final November 2024 exam postponed in these states due to elections | Edu News