There are more conversations than ever before on mental health in India, but mental health problems are still taboo in society, a new study has found.
The research assessed the role of the GVK Emergency Management Research Institute’s (GVK EMRI) 108 Ambulance Services in the management of behavioral emergencies in Telangana. Findings from the research showed that mental health problems exist, but many are reluctant to seek help.
The 108 helpline was established in 2005 and claims to be one of the largest emergency response services globally. The service is available across 15 states and 2 Union Territories in the country. Researchers analyzed more than 132,155 calls and found that only 13% of the calls were related to behavioral emergencies.
In addition, a cross-sectional study of 60 participants from a village in Telangana found repeated themes of stigmatization toward mental health problems. Individuals were reluctant to seek and obtain help, and most were unaware that the ambulance service could be used for behavioral emergencies.
Related findings include an increase in stress levels post the Covid-19 pandemic.
Image source: The Hans India
