Is There a 7.3% Rate of Mental Health Disorders Among 13-17-Year-Olds in 12 States?
Synopsis
A recent survey reveals that approximately 7.3% of adolescents aged 13-17 in 12 states are affected by mental health disorders. The government is taking significant steps to address this issue through various initiatives aimed at improving mental health support and access to services for the youth.
Key Takeaways
7.3% prevalence of mental health disorders among 13-17 year olds in 12 states .
National Tele Mental Health Programme launched for better access to mental health services.
Tele-MANAS Mobile Application supports 20 languages .
Manodarpan initiative provides psychosocial support to students.
Over 29.82 lakh calls handled by Tele-MANAS helpline.
New Delhi, Dec 5 (NationPress) According to the Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Prataprao Jadhav, the rate of mental health disorders in adolescents aged 13-17 years stands at approximately 7.3% across 12 states, as revealed in the National Mental Health Survey (NHMS).
On October 10, 2022, the government initiated a “National Tele Mental Health Programme” aimed at enhancing access to quality mental health counseling and care throughout the nation.
In response to an inquiry in Lok Sabha, Jadhav stated that the NMHS conducted in 2015-16 by the Government through the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) in Bengaluru indicated a 7.3% prevalence of mental health issues among the 13-17 age group.
The Tele-MANAS Mobile Application was introduced as a comprehensive platform aimed at assisting individuals facing mental health challenges, covering aspects from well-being to mental disorders.
This application has been updated to support 10 additional regional languages including Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, Odia, and Punjabi, along with the existing versions in English and Hindi.
Furthermore, the Tele-MANAS Mobile Application has implemented features to assist visually impaired individuals, providing accessible mental health services via a user-friendly digital interface and a toll-free number that does not necessitate screen usage.
As of November 27, 36 States/UTs have established 53 Tele-MANAS Cells, with services available in 20 languages selected by the respective States. The helpline has managed over 29.82 lakh calls since its launch.
This year alone, the Tele-MANAS platform has processed 12.33 lakh calls, according to the MoS.
The government has also introduced video consultations via Tele-MANAS, enhancing the existing audio service.
Emphasizing collaborative efforts with the Ministry of Education, Jadhav stated that the MoE has initiated Manodarpan, designed to offer psychosocial support to students, families, and teachers nationwide, focusing on mental health and well-being.
All activities under the Manodarpan initiative are specifically curated to bolster the mental health of students in schools, colleges, and universities, including those preparing for competitive exams.
The MoS noted that the University Grants Commission (UGC) released guidelines on April 13, 2023, aimed at promoting physical fitness, sports, student health, welfare, as well as psychological and emotional well-being at Higher Education Institutions (HEIs).
These guidelines advocate for the promotion of physical fitness and sports among students, the establishment of safeguards against academic and peer pressure, behavioral issues, stress, career anxieties, depression, and other challenges impacting mental health. They also aim to foster positive thinking and emotions within the student community and create supportive networks for students.
Point of View
It's imperative to acknowledge the alarming statistics presented in the National Mental Health Survey. The reported 7.3% prevalence of mental health disorders among adolescents is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention. The government's initiatives, like the National Tele Mental Health Programme and Manodarpan, reflect a commendable effort to prioritize mental health. However, continued vigilance and innovative strategies are essential to ensure comprehensive support for our youth.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the prevalence of mental health disorders among 13-17-year-olds?
The prevalence is approximately 7.3% in 12 states, according to the National Mental Health Survey (NHMS).
What is the National Tele Mental Health Programme?
It is an initiative launched by the government to improve access to mental health counseling and care services across the country.
How many languages does the Tele-MANAS Mobile Application support?
The Tele-MANAS Mobile Application supports 20 languages, including 10 regional languages added recently.
What is the Manodarpan initiative?
Manodarpan is an initiative by the Ministry of Education aimed at providing psychosocial support to students, families, and teachers.
How many calls has the Tele-MANAS helpline handled?
Since its inception, the helpline has managed over 29.82 lakh calls.
