Gender and common mental disorders: A perspective from India

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Mental Health Research
• Global Health

Background:

• Common mental disorders (CMDs), including depression and anxiety, are a major public health concern in low- and middle-income countries like India.
• These disorders are leading causes of disability and reduced quality of life, exacerbated by treatment gaps and high attrition rates.
• Women experience a disproportionately higher prevalence and severity of CMDs, with poorer outcomes linked to structural and sociocultural factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the significant public health burden of common mental disorders in India.
• To identify the specific challenges faced by women with CMDs, including healthcare access and sociocultural barriers.
• To emphasize the need for tailored interventions that address gender and cultural specificities in mental healthcare.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on studies from India concerning common mental disorders.
• Analysis of structural and sociocultural factors affecting healthcare access and outcomes for women.
• Synthesis of evidence on treatment gaps, adherence, and attrition rates in the context of CMDs.

Main Results:

• CMDs represent a leading cause of disability in India, significantly impacting quality of life.
• Women face unique challenges, including gender-based violence, limited healthcare autonomy, discrimination, and stigma, leading to worse outcomes.
• Existing care models are insufficient to address the complex needs of this population.

Conclusions:

• There is an urgent need for culturally sensitive and gender-responsive care packages for common mental disorders in India.
• Interventions must address structural barriers to healthcare access and prevalent sociocultural issues.
• Improving outcomes for women with CMDs requires a multifaceted approach tailored to the Indian context.