Brain Behaviour Research Foundation of India (BBRFI)’s Post

#Budget2024 #Economicsurvey #India Economic Survey 2024 emphasizes the critical need to address mental health in India: First time- Government Identifies the issue as priority and this is expected that budget of tomorrow will have some significant allocation. The Economic Survey for 2023-24, presented today, highlighted a concerning increase in #mentalhealth issues among Indians, advocating for a comprehensive, community-driven approach to tackle this growing problem. According to data from the National Mental Health Survey (NMHS) 2015-16, 10.6 percent of adults in India suffer from mental disorders, with a significant treatment gap ranging from 70 to 92 percent for different disorders. Urban metro regions reported a higher prevalence of #mental #morbidity at 13.5 percent compared to rural areas (6.9 percent) and urban non-metro areas (4.3 percent). This is also to mention that the latest National Crime Bureau data shows India having world's highest count of #suicide deaths.

#LeadershipInsights | Mental health is a crisis in India - 150 million citizens need intervention, yet a 70-92% treatment gap exists countrywide. An article published in BW HEALTHCARE WORLD, authored by Nilaya Varma, CEO, and Co-founder, Primus Partners India delves into the stark realities of India's mental health crisis, highlighting the treatment gap, lack of resources, technological solutions, and the urgent need for policy interventions and collaborative efforts. Click below to read the full article: https://lnkd.in/gADVEHK7 #MentalHealth #MentalHealthAwareness #MentalHealthIndia Meenakshi Sharma

The article adeptly portrays the current situation and emphasizes the urgent necessity for action. A must read!

Mental health is critically important in India for several reasons: 1. Prevalence of Mental Health Issues: India has a significant burden of mental health disorders, with conditions like depression, anxiety, and substance abuse affecting millions. 2. Stigma and Awareness: There is a pervasive stigma surrounding mental health issues in Indian society, which often prevents people from seeking help or discussing their problems openly. 3. Impact on Productivity and Economy: Poor mental health can lead to decreased productivity at work and in education, affecting individual performance and overall economic growth. 4. Suicide Rates: India has a high rate of suicide, often linked to untreated mental health conditions. Improved mental health support could potentially reduce these rates. 5. Youth and Education : With a large young population, addressing mental health is crucial for ensuring their well-being, academic success, and future productivity. 6. Access to Mental Health Services : There is a shortage of mental health professionals and services in many parts of India, particularly in rural areas, making access to treatment challenging. 7. Intersection with Physical Health: Mental health issues often coexist with physical health problems, exacerbating the overall burden on healthcare systems. 8. Family and Social Dynamics: Mental health problems affect not just individuals but also their families and communities, highlighting the need for holistic approaches to support. 9. Government Initiatives: While there have been efforts to improve mental health awareness and services, more comprehensive policies and funding are needed to address the scale of the issue effectively. 10. Quality of Life: Ultimately, promoting mental well-being enhances overall quality of life, fosters resilience, and supports sustainable development across all sectors of society. Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts from the government, healthcare providers, communities, and individuals to prioritize mental health as an integral part of public health in India. #mentalhealth #indianpopulation #awareness

*I AM BREAKING MY SILENCE* 1 in 20 people suffer from depression in India (As most reports show). I truly feel its far worse than this figure. The budget allocated to Health in India is 1.2% of the GDP (Recently highlighted by LANCET). Which may go upto 2.5% (Still a sad figure). What's more 'Harrowing' is our 'MENTAL HEALTH BUDGET'. It's of 1% of that 1.2%. So, In case you have not raised your voice already and you feel you or a family member suffers from a mental health issue, Then now is the best time to raise your voice. #mentalhealth #healthbudget #budget #raiseyourvoice

Neha Kirpal, a member of our founding cohort, recently joined Shweta Punj and Astha Ahluwalia on the Political Economy podcast, where they discussed the pressing youth mental health crisis in India. Society has perpetuated a culture where relentless hustle drives young people to the edge. This isn’t just about isolated struggles—it’s a systemic issue affecting youth at every level. Neha emphasises on how the focus should shift from what we should do to what we should stop doing. Leaders, parents, and caregivers often push for early success, driven by their own fears, insecurities, and the anxiety of potential failure or shame. This pressure fuels a competitive, rat race mentality. It’s time to step back. Our collective responsibility is to ease these unrealistic expectations and relieve the undue pressure on children, allowing them to grow at their own pace, without the burden of external anxieties. This conversation was a powerful call to action for building a society that values preventive care. India’s young people deserve more than just survival—they deserve a future where thriving is possible. At IMHA, we believe that educational institutions and workplaces need to take responsibility for building a culture that fosters good mental health, supports those vulnerable and in need. With increasing academic pressure, unemployment, and social isolation, mental health must be looked at as a development issue needing a systemic approach that goes beyond individual coping strategies and calls for collective responsibility and action. Listen to the full episode on Youtube - https://lnkd.in/dYVWi4rw moneycontrol.com | Amaha | Children First Mental Health Institute Pvt. Ltd. | Ashish Bharat Ram | Vasvi Bharat Ram | Amit Malik | Amitav Virmani | Kairavi Bharat Ram | Dr Kavita Arora | Amit Sen | Shelja Sen | Shalini Gupta | Karan Malik | #youth #youthmentalhealth #systemschange #education #unemployment

As per the recent study, suicide is a significant public health issue in India, with 1.71 lakh cases recorded in 2022, a 4.2% rise from 2021 and a 27% increase since 2018. Interestingly, many recent victims were educated professionals from corporate sectors. Meanwhile, daily wage workers, who may earn less, often seem mentally and physically stronger. Why? 1. Less debt – Lower income limits their loans, often only for essentials, unlike corporate professionals who can get trapped in large EMIs. 2. More time with family – Labourers work locally, reducing travel time, while corporate employees often spend 5-6 hours commuting. 3. Less screen time – They’re less exposed to social media algorithms that can negatively affect mental health. These are just my thoughts, not a universal rule. If you’re facing a tough situation, trust in your efforts and let go—things will work out. And if it’s manageable, you’ll overcome it. Stay 💪 strong, Friends🙂.

It's scary to see the mental health crisis in the US, with anxiety levels rising so high among young adults 🧠 Believe me India could be on the same path if we don't address this soon. But unfortunately, access to mental health services remains a barrier, with cost, stigma, and the shortage of providers being major obstacles. In response, mental health professionals and researchers are exploring creative solutions that go beyond traditional therapy models. 1. One exciting development is the rise of digital technologies, such as mental health apps and digital therapeutics. While these tools show promise, they work best when combined with some form of human support, like coaching or check-ins. 2. Another innovative approach is the idea of open science, where psychologists are sharing reliable clinical assessment tools with the public through websites like HELPING GIVE AWAY PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCE (HGAPS). This helps people take assessments and share the results with their providers, potentially leading to more accurate diagnoses and personalised treatment plans. 3. Recognising that many patients don't return after their first therapy appointment, some psychologists are exploring the power of single-session therapy. This approach aims to provide effective help in just one session, potentially reaching more people and reducing waitlists. The number is increasing for India too, and I am sure as we move towards more growth, the stress level and depression cases are going to rise as well. As professionals, it is our duty to keep our country, our people, and our world safe from mental health crises. Stay Strong 🌺 Nishtha #mentalhealth #psychologist #corporatewellness

Reflecting on 2023: India's mental health journey calls for unity and proactive steps!! Despite challenges like a severe shortage of mental health professionals, 2023 in India saw progress in mental healthcare, with increased government initiatives and a shift in workplace attitudes. The government focusing on early intervention and preventive measures is crucial for building a resilient society. 1. The Parliamentary Standing Committee report in 2023 revealed a stagnant treatment gap in #mentalhealth with 92% of individuals in need not receiving treatment. 2. India witnessed a concerning 7.2% increase in the suicide rate, particularly among the youth facing high-pressure educational environments. 3. The severe shortage of mental health professionals, with only 0.75 #psychiatrists for every 1 lakh people, underscores the urgent need for intervention. 4. As per #WHO standard we need 27,000 Psychiatrist 5. There are 3,372 RCI licensed Clinical Psychologis as per Rajya Sabha Report, Delhi and Kerala are the leading ambassadors of mental health. 6. Government efforts, such as integrating mental health into the #AyushmanBharat scheme and launching initiatives like #MANAS and #TeleManas, signify progress. 8. Technology especially AI, offers promising opportunities to enhance the accessibility and effectiveness of mental healthcare services. 9. Businesses are increasingly recognizing the financial implications of employee well-being, leading to increased #investments in well-being programs. 10. Increased media coverage and community engagement efforts have contributed to more open conversations about mental health. 11. Implementing holistic mental health education programs in schools, workplaces and communities can empower individuals to recognize and address mental health challenges proactively. Collective action is needed to create a #future where mental health support is accessible, inclusive and effective for all. #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthsupport

🌟 Urgent Call for Action: Addressing the Rise in Suicide Cases in Gujarat Dear LinkedIn community, It is with a heavy heart that I share some alarming statistics about the increase in suicide cases in Gujarat, one of the wealthiest states in India. Over the past three years, the region has witnessed over 25,000 suicides, a deeply concerning trend that demands our collective attention. In the face of such distressing numbers, it's crucial for us to come together, discuss the root causes, and identify practical solutions. Mental health challenges, economic pressures, and societal issues may be contributing factors, necessitating a holistic approach to tackle this crisis. Reasons for the Rise: Mental Health Stigma: Breaking the stigma around mental health is crucial to encourage individuals to seek help without fear of judgment. Economic Struggles: Unemployment and financial strain can exacerbate mental health issues, making it imperative to address economic disparities. Social Pressures: Societal expectations and discrimination can contribute to a toxic environment, impacting mental well-being. Practical Solutions: Mental Health Awareness Campaigns: Launch comprehensive campaigns to educate the public about mental health, reducing stigma and promoting understanding. Accessible Mental Health Services: Increase the availability and accessibility of mental health services, ensuring everyone has access to professional support. Employment Opportunities: Collaborate with businesses and the government to create more job opportunities, supporting economic stability. Community Support Programs: Establish community-driven initiatives that foster support networks, providing individuals with a sense of belonging and understanding. Let's use our collective influence to raise awareness, advocate for change, and work towards building a healthier, more compassionate society. Your insights and contributions can make a significant impact. If you have resources, initiatives, or experiences to share, please do so in the comments. Together, we can make a difference. #MentalHealthMatters #GujaratSuicidePrevention #CommunitySupport 🙏 Please share to amplify the message. Together, we can create positive change. 🌍💙