World Mental Health Day: Experts Flag Lack Of Mental Health Policies

25-40 age group worst-affected by workplace stress; number of OPD patients touches 20,938 by Sept this year against 26,164 in 2023

- Ankit Pandey

As the world observes Mental Health Day today, alarming statistics from Ahmedabad's Civil Sola Psychiatry Department reveal a worrying trend. Over the past two years, the number of patients seeking help for mental health concerns has steadily increased, underlining an urgent need for improved support systems in both workplaces and the wider community.

In 2023, the hospital's Outpatient Department (OPD) recorded 26,164 patients. This year, the number has already reached 20,938 by September 2024.

This surge is mirrored in bed occupancy rates, which have risen from 80% to a peak of 116% this October. The Inpatient Department (IPD) has also seen a consistent influx of cases, indicating a growing need for intensive care. To manage severe conditions, treatments like Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) have been administered 162 times this year, while ketamine has been used 558 times.

"Workplace stress, societal pressures, and a lack of mental health awareness are major contributing factors," says Dr Archana Kantak, Associate Professor and Resident at GMERS Sola Hospital, Ahmedabad.