Hyderabad: Access to mental healthcare remains challenging for low and middle-income groups. While private therapy sessions cost an exorbitant ₹1,500-₹3,000 per session, government facilities are often approached only in emergencies.
Stress, depression, and anxiety are the primary factors driving people aged 18–35 to seek help, often triggered by economic struggles, social inequality, financial issues within families, and personal or familial health problems. For students, academic pressure is a significant source of stress.
However, accessing mental health professionals remains difficult for various reasons. Raj, a 26-year-old government job aspirant, spoke of his struggles with economic distress, inequality, and inflation.
“I attended a few private sessions costing ₹2,600-₹3,000 each. While helpful, they were unaffordable. I would continue therapy if affordable options with Bahujan therapists, who understand my marginalised background, were available,” he told Deccan Chronicle.
Shehnaz, a 45-year-old domestic worker from Secunderabad, said she was unaware of mental healthcare options despite the urgent need. “I live with my mother, brother, and his family. My nephew has serious mental health issues, often running away from home or getting disturbed by trivial matters. My brother now requires open-heart surgery, and we can’t afford physical health treatment, let alone mental healthcare,” she said despairingly.
Dr Vishal Akula, head of psychiatry at Government Medical College, Jagtial, highlighted free treatment options under the district mental health programme (DMHP), which is part of the National Mental Health Programme (NMHP). “DMHP focuses on building mental health infrastructure in rural areas. We primarily receive cases of depression, peer pressure, substance abuse, gambling, and smartphone addiction. Treatments include pharmacotherapy and individual, family, and group counseling,” he explained.
Dr Akula noted that while awareness of mental health has improved, social stigma remains a significant barrier, especially for marginalised groups lacking support systems and awareness. “Drug abuse, suicidal tendencies, and loneliness are prevalent, particularly among young people without parents or with single parents. Group therapy often works better in these cases, allowing participants to share struggles and success stories,” he added.
Shortage of psychiatrists and trained counsellors in rural areas further hinder the DMHP’s efforts. Therapists rely on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to address individual thought processes, but building district-level mental healthcare facilities and manpower remains a challenge.
