World Mental Health Day: Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized mental health as an integral component of overall well-being on Friday, marking World Mental Health Day observed annually on October 10 to raise global awareness about mental health challenges.
PM Modi takes to X on 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 stated in a post on social media platform X. He highlighted the necessity of compassion toward individuals experiencing mental health conditions including anxiety and depression.
World Mental Health Day serves as a powerful reminder that mental health is a fundamental part of our overall well-being. In a fast-paced world, this day underscores the importance of reflecting and extending compassion to others. Let us also work collectively to create…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 10, 2025
“In a fast-paced world, this day underscores the importance of reflecting and extending compassion to others,” PM Modi said, urging efforts to normalize mental health discussions. “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.”
India faces Mental Health issues
India faces significant mental health challenges. The National Mental Health Survey (2016) revealed that approximately 13.2 percent of Indians experience a diagnosable mental health condition during their lifetime, while 10.6 percent are currently affected—meaning roughly one in ten Indians lives with conditions such as depression, anxiety, or substance use disorders. Depression remains the most prevalent condition, particularly among women.
The government has implemented several initiatives to address mental health needs. Tele-MANAS, launched in 2022, provides 24/7 counseling services in up to 20 languages through 53 cells established across 36 states. The service has fielded over 23.82 lakh calls through mid-March 2025.
About National Mental Health Programme
The National Mental Health Programme, now operating as the District Mental Health Programme (DMHP), covers more than 700 districts with multidisciplinary teams comprising psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and nurses. The government has integrated mental health services into primary healthcare through Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, where comprehensive primary health care now includes mental health packages.
“Cashless healthcare services have been approved for 22 procedures under Mental Disorder Speciality under AB PM-JAY,” the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting announced. India currently operates 47 government mental hospitals, including three Central Mental Health Institutions.
This year’s World Mental Health Day theme, “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies,” addresses the critical need for mental health support during humanitarian crises. The World Health Organization stated: “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.”
