Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Oct 10: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday underscored that mental health is a vital part of overall well-being as the nation joined the global observance of World Mental Health Day.
“World Mental Health Day serves as a powerful reminder that mental health is a fundamental part of our overall well-being,” PM Modi shared on social media platform X.
He urged people to show empathy towards those suffering from conditions like anxiety and depression, stressing the need to bring mental health conversations into the mainstream. “In a fast-paced world, this day underscores the importance of reflecting and extending compassion to others,” he said.
The Prime Minister lauded professionals working in the mental health sector. “Let us also work collectively to create environments where conversations around mental health become more mainstream. My compliments to all those working in this field and helping others heal and find happiness,” he added.
According to the National Mental Health Survey (2016), around 13.2 per cent of Indians experience a diagnosable mental health condition during their lifetime, with 10.6 per cent currently affected. Depression remains the most common issue, particularly among women.
To address these challenges, the government launched initiatives like Tele-MANAS, which provides 24x7 counselling support in 20 languages. Currently, 53 Tele-MANAS cells operate across 36 states and have handled over 23.8 lakh calls since its launch in 2022.
The National Mental Health Programme (NMHP), implemented through the District Mental Health Programme (DMHP), now covers more than 700 districts with teams comprising psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and nurses.
Efforts are also underway to strengthen mental healthcare at the primary level through Ayushman Arogya Mandirs. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting announced that cashless healthcare services are now available for 22 mental disorder procedures under the AB PM-JAY scheme.
Currently, 47 government-run mental hospitals are functional across the country, including three central institutions. Mental health services have also been added to the packages under Comprehensive Primary Health Care at Ayushman Arogya Mandirs.
This year’s World Mental Health Day theme, “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies,” focuses on supporting the psychological needs of people affected by humanitarian crises.
The World Health Organization (WHO) called on nations to strengthen efforts in this area, stating, “On this World Mental Health Day, let us intensify our efforts to create a world where mental health is valued, protected, and accessible for all, especially in the face of adversity.”