Common mental disorders among women in reproductive age group: An analysis of national mental health survey, India 2016

Abstract

Background: Common mental disorders (CMDs) have a higher prevalence among women in their reproductive age (WRA) compared to the general population. Large Indian epidemiological studies focusing on the prevalence and socioeconomic correlates of CMDs among WRA are lacking. The associated disability and treatment gap particularly in the women population is unknown. Aim: To estimate the current prevalence, correlates, disability, socioeconomic impact, and treatment gap of CMDs among WRA from a nationally representative sample from India. Materials and Methods: The National Mental Health Survey of India 2016 is a multisite nationwide household survey conducted across India using a uniform methodology. Overall, 39,532 adults were surveyed with a response rate of 88%. The diagnosis was based on Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview 6.0.0. CMDs among WRA (18-49 years) for this secondary analysis included depression and anxiety disorders. Results: The prevalence of CMDs among WRA in India was 5.83%. Two important risk factors for CMDs included being divorced and living in the urban metro. Nearly 70% of women reported disabilities of varying severity. The overall treatment gap was around 82% (urban nonmetro > metro > rural population). On average, the cost of treatment of CMDs was ₹ 2,000 per month. Conclusion: CMDs are prevalent among WRA groups with significant disabilities and treatment gaps in India. The disability and treatment gap associated with CMDs among WRA can be handled by integrating mental health into general medical/obstetric care.