Is the Awareness Gap Fueling Mental Health Disorders Among Young Indian Adults?
Synopsis
A recent conference sheds light on how the lack of awareness regarding mental health treatment is affecting young adults in India. Experts emphasize the urgent need for preventive measures and timely interventions to address this escalating crisis.
Key Takeaways
Lack of awareness about mental health treatment contributes to rising disorders.
Nearly 60% of mental disorders occur in those under 35.
Overuse of digital devices may exacerbate mental health issues.
Early intervention and preventive measures are crucial.
Accessible and stigma-free mental health services are needed.
New Delhi, Jan 28 (NationPress) The lack of awareness regarding the importance of timely treatment is contributing to an increase in mental health disorders among young adults in India, health experts stated on Wednesday.
During the 77th Annual National Conference of the Indian Psychiatric Society (ANCIPS 2026), prominent mental health professionals highlighted that the excessive reliance on digital devices may exacerbate mental health issues.
Scientific discussions revealed that nearly 60 percent of mental health disorders in India are identified in individuals under the age of 35.
Experts pointed out that the Covid-19 pandemic, coupled with economic instability and evolving social dynamics, has intensified feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression in this demographic.
Dr. Deepak Raheja, Organising Secretary of ANCIPS Delhi, remarked, “The fact that 60 percent of mental disorders are affecting those under 35 years highlights that India’s mental health crisis is emerging much earlier than previously thought. These years are crucial for individuals as they pursue education, establish careers, and contribute to society.”
Dr. Nimesh G. Desai, former Director of the Institute of Human Behaviour & Allied Sciences (IHBAS), added, “The overuse of digital devices and dependence on the online world will likely lead to an increase in mental health issues. One primary factor behind the rising cases in India is the lack of awareness about timely treatment. Most mental disorders can be effectively treated if reported early, allowing patients to lead normal lives.”
Desai emphasized that mental health issues that manifest in youth often persist throughout life if not addressed early.
“These disorders impact not only individuals but also their families, workplaces, and the overall productivity of the nation. It is essential for psychiatry in India to transition from a reactive approach to one focused on prevention and early intervention,” he stated.
The experts warned that untreated mental disorders that arise early can evolve into chronic conditions, resulting in significant long-term disability and substantial social and economic consequences.
Dr. Savita Malhotra, President of the Indian Psychiatric Society, noted, “Rapid societal changes have dramatically transformed the experiences of young people. Today’s youth face intense academic competition, constant digital comparisons, loneliness despite being connected, and uncertainty regarding jobs and relationships. Mental health services must evolve to meet these challenges and become more accessible, youth-friendly, and free from stigma.”
Raheja concluded, “Early detection, mental health programs in schools and colleges, and destigmatization are now essential if we want to safeguard the future of our nation.”
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the alarming rise in mental health disorders among young adults in India. The data presented by health experts is a wake-up call for society. It underscores the need for proactive mental health services that prioritize prevention and education. This is a national concern that requires immediate attention and action from policymakers and communities alike.
NationPress
1 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of mental disorders occur in individuals under 35?
Nearly 60 percent of mental disorders in India are diagnosed in individuals below the age of 35.
What role does digital device usage play in mental health?
Excessive use of digital devices may further exacerbate mental health disorders among young adults.
How has the Covid-19 pandemic affected mental health?
The Covid-19 pandemic has intensified stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms among young adults due to economic uncertainty and changing social structures.
What can be done to address mental health issues in youth?
Early identification, school- and college-based mental health programs, and destigmatization are essential steps in addressing mental health issues in young adults.
Why is timely treatment important?
Timely treatment can lead to successful management of mental disorders, allowing individuals to lead normal lives.
