The affordability challengeThe panel also addressed the financial burden of mental health treatment. With private psychiatrists charging anywhere between ₹7,000 to ₹8,000 per session, mental health care remains out of reach for many. Dr Murthy noted, “Out-of-pocket expenditure for chronic disorders is enormous. We need services that are not just accessible but also affordable.” She cited the Tele Manas Initiative as a step in the right direction, explaining, “This initiative provides multilingual tele-counselling services nationwide, connecting individuals with trained professionals for immediate support.”Technology vs traditional careThe role of technology in mental health care sparked an engaging discussion. While digital mental health platforms aim to democratise access to care, Dr Deb warned, “Technology is often seen as a solution, but what we observe on the ground is that it remains an elitist approach. Most mental health apps operate in English, making them inaccessible to a large portion of the population.” He added, “AI-driven mental health apps should act as a bridge, ensuring human intervention remains at the core.”Breaking the stigmaThe session also underscored the deep-rooted stigma surrounding mental health, which prevents many from seeking help. Dr Murthy stressed, “We need more conversations like this to normalise discussions on mental well-being.” The speakers also touched upon conditions like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, depression, and addiction, particularly among the youth. “Mental health issues affect everyone, but those from underprivileged backgrounds face additional vulnerabilities,” she noted.A call to changeThe discussion ended on a powerful note, asserting that mental health is as important as physical health. “Early intervention can save lives,” Dr Murthy asserted. “In an era where loneliness, migration, and academic stress are rampant, it is crucial that we take a comprehensive, multi-pronged approach integrating awareness, affordability, and accessibility,” she added.
Source link
