Lack of awareness about timely treatment is contributing to mental health disorders among young Indian adults, as highlighted by health experts at the 77th Annual National Conference of the Indian Psychiatric Society (ANCIPS 2026). The experts emphasized that excessive use of digital devices could exacerbate mental health issues, with nearly 60% of mental disorders in India being diagnosed in individuals under 35 years old.
The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, coupled with economic instability and evolving social dynamics, has escalated stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms among this age group. Dr. Deepak Raheja, Organising Secretary of ANCIPS Delhi, noted the early onset of mental health challenges in India, affecting individuals during crucial years of education, career development, and societal contribution.
Dr. Nimesh G. Desai, former Director of the Institute of Human Behaviour & Allied Sciences (IHBAS), stressed the importance of timely treatment awareness in addressing mental health issues. He highlighted that early intervention is key to successful treatment and normal life for patients, cautioning that untreated mental disorders in youth can persist throughout life.
The experts underscored the need for a shift in India’s psychiatric approach towards prevention and early intervention strategies. Dr. Savita Malhotra, President of the Indian Psychiatric Society, emphasized the necessity for mental health services to adapt to the evolving challenges faced by today’s youth, including academic pressures, digital comparisons, loneliness, and employment uncertainties.
According to the experts, early identification, mental health programs in educational institutions, and destigmatization efforts are crucial to safeguarding the nation’s future.
