Severe shortage of mental health experts in India
Most Indians, at one point or another, have faced a mental health issue. And if they haven't yet, there is a big chance of them facing it in near future. This issue could range from coping from loss, anxiety, suicidal tendency to difficulty in adjusting to a change. But are we ready to handle this overwhelming cry for help? The answer is a disappointing NO. According to recent data presented in the Lok Sabha, there are only 898 psychologists in comparison to the 20,250 required in India.
State-wise, Uttar Pradesh has the maximum number of people suffering from mental health issues, followed by West Bengal, Kerala and Maharashtra. The shortage is leading to soaring treatment cost in the country, leading to people with a good command over English (or local language) claiming to be psychologists, without required qualification.
Also, due to this restricted availability and high costs, many people do not approach a therapist until the last stage, which can sometimes turn into a full-blown crisis. The approach eventually becomes less of prevention, and more of crisis intervention.
State-wise, Uttar Pradesh has the maximum number of people suffering from mental health issues, followed by West Bengal, Kerala and Maharashtra. The shortage is leading to soaring treatment cost in the country, leading to people with a good command over English (or local language) claiming to be psychologists, without required qualification.
Also, due to this restricted availability and high costs, many people do not approach a therapist until the last stage, which can sometimes turn into a full-blown crisis. The approach eventually becomes less of prevention, and more of crisis intervention.
Mental health issues are a taboo in India, and when people try to open but feel isolated, this can worsen the overall situation. No wonder then that India has the highest number of suicides in the world.
To address this dangerous problem, there is a dire need for public and private sector to join hands. Mental health issues need to be controlled at an early stage before it turns its ugly head out.
18.07.2018
If you walk in the footprints of others, you won’t make any of your own
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