The World Health Organisation (WHO) has stated that India is the country with the highest prevalence rates of depression in the world. Over 56 million people suffer from depression and an additional 38 million suffer from anxiety related disorders. These numbers have deep implications and makes it very likely that someone you know is suffering from a depressive or anxiety related mental illness.
Apart from the fact that access to mental healthcare is limited, there is a cultural aspect as to why we, as Indians may be more hesitant to seek therapy.
The benefits of having a familial support system while dealing with mental illnesses cannot be overstated, however there is a possibility that an excessive reliance on the interdependent/collectivist framework of Indian families without the knowledge or awareness of mental health can have a negative impact.
Reasons why Indians may be hesitant to seek therapy
Diagnosis, treatment and management of depression and anxiety requires clinical intervention, along with family support. Cultural norms need to be broken sometimes in order to ensure the individual receives the help they need.