NIMHANS works to reduce mental health stigma, prioritizes smooth access to care with empathy

The National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS) is working to make mental healthcare more accessible and reduce the stigma surrounding it. Through initiatives like **Mental Health Santhe 3.0**, an anti-stigma campaign on October 15, NIMHANS aims to normalize conversations about mental health and advocate for well-being.

The Institute conducts awareness programs, trains healthcare professionals, and fosters a culture where mental health is considered essential to overall health. Mental health disorders in India face significant stigma, contributing to poor care access, with the 2016 National Mental Health Survey revealing treatment gaps of up to 86%.

In 2022, India reported over 1,70,000 suicides, a 4.2% rise from the previous year, linked to factors like family issues, illness, and unemployment, per NCRB data. **Mental Health Santhe 3.0** seeks to bring together mental health and suicide prevention advocates to promote understanding and support, building on the success of previous editions.