Experts Stress Integration of Mental Health into Mainstream Healthcare on World Mental Health Day

On World Mental Health Day 2025, Indian medical experts highlighted the urgent need to make mental health an integral part of the healthcare system, particularly during catastrophes and emergencies, this year’s theme. Despite growing awareness, mental health services in India remain underfunded and inaccessible, especially in rural and underserved areas.

Dr. Gowri Kulkarni of MediBuddy emphasized that in emergencies, emotional impacts like shock, anxiety, and grief are often invisible but profound. Programs such as Tele-MANAS and local counselling networks are expanding access, while Psychological First Aid provides immediate support to help individuals regain calm and control. Early intervention is crucial to prevent long-term mental health conditions.

Dr. Amit Malik, CEO of Amaha, noted that benchmark-quality, evidence-based care is often missing in India. He stressed the need for a coordinated ecosystem of hospitals, caregivers, corporates, insurers, and public health organizations to embed mental health support into everyday life, strengthening systems and improving access nationwide.

12-10-2025