Urban Mental Health Crisis Deepens as Hospitals Report Rising Burnout and Anxiety Cases

Bengaluru | BomBay Weekly

Hospitals and mental health clinics across India’s major cities have reported a significant increase in cases of anxiety, depression, and workplace burnout, particularly among working professionals aged between 25 and 45.

Doctors attribute the rise to extended working hours, job insecurity, high performance expectations, and continuous digital connectivity. Several healthcare providers confirmed that many patients are first-time visitors, indicating growing stress levels rather than pre-existing conditions.

Mental health professionals say the stigma around seeking psychological help is slowly reducing, but access to affordable and long-term care remains limited. Public hospitals continue to face shortages of trained psychiatrists and counsellors, while private treatment remains out of reach for many.

The Union Health Ministry has acknowledged the issue, reiterating the need to strengthen mental health services under the National Mental Health Programme. Experts warn that without structural workplace reforms and expanded care infrastructure, the crisis could worsen.