Date of Publication : 29th June 2024

Abstract:The investigation examines the mental health landscape across India, focusing on English-speaking individuals with internet access in 36 states and union territories. It seeks to understand the evolution of mental health since the pandemic began in 2020, with a particular emphasis on the well-being of young adults aged 18-24. The study also considers the influence of socioeconomic factors. Data was gathered from April 2020 to August 2023, with 106,427 participants from the mentioned regions. The Mental Health Quotient (MHQ) served as the assessment tool, measuring 47 aspects of mental experience and functionality, which contribute to an overall mental health score correlating with an individual’s functional capacity.

The Global Intellect Project collects data from professional, web-savvy adults over 18 years old through an online self- assessment called the MHQ. This assessment is conducted globally across more than 70 countries and includes diverse demographic groups. The MHQ not only evaluates mental health but also offers personalized guidance and includes demographic and lifestyle inquiries. The Health Media Lab Institutional Review Board (HML IRB) has granted ethical approval to ensure participant safety. The Global Intellect Project’s database is accessible to non-commercial researchers from non-profit and government sectors.

The MHQ’s comprehensive assessment reveals that a significant number of India’s educated and affluent young population are displaying mental health scores indicative of distress or struggle. More than half of the young individuals in this group have scores that fall within the troubled or struggling range, often associated with five or more symptoms at a clinical level. The MHQ score, which is linked to productive employment, indicates a decline in the ability to perform effectively, potentially leading to increased absenteeism. This raises concerns about India’s demographic dividend, as the young population may face substantial challenges transitioning into the workforce and adulthood.

Previous studies, such as the extensive NIMHANS mental health survey, had a narrower focus and did not explore this particular demographic. Additionally, India’s health initiatives have traditionally concentrated on treatment rather than prevention. Despite plans to expand Health and Wellness Centers to 150,000 by 2030, their impact on improving mental health in the face of India’s vast population and existing challenges remains to be seen.

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