Overview 

In recent years, there has been increasing acknowledgment of mental health's role in people's lives. Depression is one of the foremost causes of disability, and suicide is one of the main reasons for death among 15-29 age groups. The lifespan of people with critical mental health conditions reduces as much as two decades early. 

Individuals with mental health conditions frequently encounter severe human rights violations, discrimination, and stigma despite notable progress over the years. 

It is possible to treat any mental health condition effectively at a relatively low cost. Yet, the huge gap between people needing care and those with access to care makes effective treatment coverage extremely low. 

Expanded investment is the need of the hour: for mental health, for awareness, to reduce stigma, to increase access to quality mental health care and effective treatments, for research, and to improve the available treatments for each mental disorder. 

Burden 

Mental health conditions are increasing in India, and mental health conditions are one of the reasons for disability. The majority of people in post-conflict settings have a mental health condition. 

Mental health conditions can extensively affect all areas of life, such as academic or job performance, relations with family and friends, and the ability to participate in the community. Despite these, the global health expenditure for mental health is < 2%. 

PGC Response 

PGC works to improve the mental health of people and society in general. This includes promoting mental well-being, preventing mental disorders, and increasing access to quality mental health care that respects people's human rights. 

PGC works to ensure access to quality and affordable care for mental health conditions to the people of our country. 

PGC is helping to extend mental health care by workforce development for mental health; promotion of the quality of care, mental health and psychosocial support, development of

innovative psychological interventions, mental health in the workplace, economics, mental health of children and adolescents, and mental health promotion. 

Fact Sheet

 Frequency: Mental illnesses doubled from 1990 and 2017 in India. Depression followed by anxiety disorders was found to be the most prevalent among the adult population.

 PGC Resolution: Ensuring access to quality and affordable care for mental health conditions in India.