National Mental Health Survey of India 2015-16

Preface
With changing health patterns among Indians, mental, behavioural and substance use
disorders are coming to the fore in health care delivery systems. These disorders contribute
for significant morbidity, disability and even mortality amongst those affected. Due to the
prevailing stigma, these disorders often are hidden by the society and consequently persons
with mental disorders lead a poor quality of life.
Even though several studies point to the growing burden, the extent, pattern and outcome
of these mental, behavioural and substance use disorders are not clearly known. Though
unmeasured, the social and economic impact of these conditions is huge. It is also acknowledged
that mental health programmes and services need significant strengthening and / or scaling
up to deliver appropriate and comprehensive services for the millions across the country who
are in need of care.
India recently announced its mental health policy and an action plan; these along with the
proposed mental health bill attempts to address the gaps in mental health care. In addition,
recommendations from National Human Rights Commission and directives from the Supreme
Court of India have accelerated the pace of implementation of mental health services. Several
advocacy groups, including media, have highlighted need for scaling up services and providing
comprehensive mental health care.
To further strengthen mental health programmes and develop data driven programmes, the
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India commissioned NIMHANS to
plan and undertake a national survey to develop data on prevalence, pattern and outcomes
for mental disorders in the country. Furthermore, a systematic assessment of resources and
services that are available to meet the current demands was a felt need.
Thus, the National Mental Health Survey was undertaken by NIMHANS to fulfil these objectives
across 12 selected states of India during 2015 – 16. After making adequate preparations for
nearly 12 months, the study was implemented on a nationally representative sample adopting
a uniform and standard methodology. Data collection was undertaken by well-trained staff
using hand held devices from 39,532 individuals across the states. Simultaneously, mental
health systems assessment undertaken using secondary data sources and qualitative methods,
set down indicators with the active engagement of stake holders.
The findings from NMHS 2015-16 are presented in two parts: the first part provides data on the
prevalence, pattern and outcomes, while the second one reports the current status of mental
health systems. These reports provide a detailed description of the need, focus, methods,
SMHSA
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