Self-reporting of mental disorders in India ‘lower than burden’

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Last Updated10/02/2024

Access to healthcare and financial protection for individuals with mental disorders in India are influenced by social determinants.
This is affecting the country's progress towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

A study by researchers from IIT Jodhpur highlights low self-reporting rates for mental health issues in India.
Based on the 75th Round National Sample Survey (NSS) 2017-2018, self-reporting of mental illness was less than 1%.
NSS data collected from over 5,55,000 individuals, indicating a significant gap in recognizing mental health concerns.

The study emphasizes substantial out-of-pocket expenses associated with seeking mental health services.
Reliance on the private sector leads to higher expenses, particularly impacting individuals with lower incomes.
Individuals with higher incomes were 1.73 times more inclined to report health problems compared to those with lower incomes, uncovering a socioeconomic divide.

Middle-aged individuals are particularly affected, with mental illness affecting productivity and economic impact on the country.
Families spend a considerable amount monthly on treatment and travel expenses, exacerbating the economic burden.
- Families had to spend nearly Rs 1,000 – Rs 1,500 a month mainly for treatment and travel to access care.
The private sector plays a major role in providing mental health services, but only a small percentage of individuals have health insurance coverage.
- A mere 23% of individuals hospitalised for mental disorders had health insurance coverage at the national level.

Low levels of education and income are closely associated with mental disorders, contributing to impoverishment.
Individuals with lower income, poor education, and limited employment opportunities are more vulnerable to mental disorders due to adverse social and economic determinants of health.

Stigma in society acts as a significant barrier to reporting mental health issues and seeking treatment.
- NMHS findings revealed that nearly 80% of persons suffering from mental disorders, had not received any treatment despite the presence of illness for more than 12 months.
Stigma associated with mental disorders prevents access to treatment, education, work, and marriage opportunities, affecting both individuals and their families.