Best practices

Accurate data collection and analysis are essential for the success of any health initiative. Conducted during the 2015–16 period with the support of the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the 'National Mental Health Survey' (NMHS) has paved the way for mental health policy formulation in Kerala. The survey was prepared under the leadership of NIMHANS and IMHANS, Kozhikode.

This survey, which emphasized planning through data collection, has initiated significant changes in the state's mental health activities. The study indicates that the prevalence of mental health problems among adults in Kerala is 11.36%. Depression, anxiety, and substance use were identified as the most frequently observed conditions.

The survey explicitly states that the excessive use of alcohol and tobacco is a major contributing factor to mental health issues. Furthermore, the high risk of suicide and the prevalence of stress-related disorders are critical areas that the state must address with seriousness.

Although Kerala possesses better healthcare infrastructure compared to many other states, the survey highlights several limitations, including gaps in service delivery, a lack of mental health awareness, inadequate resource allocation, and the urgent need to increase the availability of expert mental health professionals and specialized facilities.

This survey report is more than just a collection of data; it serves as a roadmap for Kerala's future mental health interventions. The survey offers several key recommendations: developing a precise state-level action plan based on the findings, ensuring the availability of mental health services from Primary Health Centres (PHCs) up to the community level, creating greater public awareness regarding substance use and mental health, and providing advanced training to healthcare workers on mental health topics.

The findings of this survey are essential to reduce the burden of mental illness and to ensure the overall mental well-being of Kerala.