Archive · 10 Nov 2025
India Enhances Mental Healthcare Access and Integration
Imagine doctors and nurses in regular clinics, like the ones in your neighborhood, are now also being trained to help people with problems like feeling very sad or worried.
This is part of a big plan in India to make it easier for everyone to get help for their mental health, not just people who go to special doctors.
They are also using phones and computers to offer support, like a 24/7 helpline that was started during the pandemic.
This means more people can get help closer to home, and even get money for treatment if they have a special insurance plan.
While many people in India need help with mental health, and sadly, suicide rates are high, the country is working hard to make sure everyone has access to care and support.
India is integrating mental health services into primary care through Ayushman Arogya Mandirs under the Ayushman Bharat initiative.
Approximately 10.6% of Indian adults had a diagnosable mental health disorder as of a 2015-16 survey.
Mental health disorders were found to be more prevalent in women (20%) than men (10%) in a 2019 study.
India reported 171,418 suicides in 2023, with males constituting 72.8% of these cases.
Mental health conditions are covered under Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY with Rs 5 lakh insurance per family annually.
- Who
- Government of India and various health institutions
- What
- Expanding mental health services integration into primary care and enhancing accessibility through initiatives like Ayushman Bharat and Tele MANAS.
- When
- Ongoing, with data reflecting up to 2023 and ongoing initiatives.
- Where
- India
- Why
- To address the pressing global challenge of mental health, increase awareness, expand workforce training, and invest in digital solutions for a mentally healthier society.
- Mental Health Prevalence (2015-16)
- 10.6% of Indian adults
- Gender Disparity in Mental Health Disorders (2019)
- Women: 20%, Men: 10%
- Total Suicides Reported (2023)
- 171,418
- Gender Disparity in Suicides (2023)
- Males: 72.8%, Females: 27.2%
- Ayushman Arogya Mandirs Established
- Over 1.75 lakh
- PM-JAY Mental Health Coverage
- Rs 5 lakh per family annually
- PM-JAY Mental Health Authorised Admissions (FY21-24)
- Over 1.35 lakh