India Mental Health Market Research Report and Industry Forecast

India Mental Health Market Size and Share:

The India mental health market size was valued at USD 20.17 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 27.35 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 3.18% during 2025-2033. South India currently dominates the market, holding a significant market share in 2024. The market is evolving rapidly due to the increased awareness about mental wellbeing, introduction of digital therapy platforms, several initiatives undertaken by the government to conduct mental wellness awareness programs, and evolving lifestyle patterns causing anxiety and stress. The growing acceptance of mental wellness and the integration of mental health services into mainstream healthcare are expanding access and demand. These dynamics are reshaping service delivery and contributing to the India mental health market share.

The market for mental health in India is growing steadily due to a mix of social, technological, and policy-driven changes. Rising public awareness and a decline in stigma have encouraged more individuals to acknowledge mental health issues and seek professional help. Influential public figures and media have played a vital role in normalizing mental health discussions, leading to higher demand for counseling and therapy services. For instance, in April 2024, the National Tele Mental Health Programme (NTMHP) made great progress in extending mental health services throughout India. 53 Tele MANAS Cells have been built in 36 States and Union Territories as of April 1, 2025, providing 24-hour telemental health services in 20 languages based on local preferences. Over 20,05,000 calls have been answered by the helpline, demonstrating the growing demand for easily accessible mental health services across the country.

The India mental health market growth is also fueled by technological advancements, particularly the rise of telemedicine and mental health apps, which have improved access to care across urban and rural regions. These platforms offer anonymity, convenience, and lower costs, making them appealing to younger populations. For instance, in December 2024, Sukoon Health launched MERA Sukoon, a revolutionary 24-hour mental health emergency service, to provide timely assistance to individuals and their families. Initiated in March 2024 in Bengaluru, this innovative initiative offers round-the-clock access to a dedicated team of mental health specialists led by consultant psychiatrists, ensuring timely and compassionate care as needed.

India Mental Health Market Trends:

Increasing Awareness and Reducing Stigma

India has witnessed a growing societal shift in how mental health is perceived. With awareness campaigns, educational initiatives, and public endorsements by celebrities and influencers, mental health conversations have become more normalized. Schools, workplaces, and communities are beginning to recognize mental wellness as essential to overall health. This change has reduced stigma and encouraged more people to seek help for anxiety, depression, and other conditions. Media representation and government-backed awareness programs have also played a significant role in shaping public perception. As a result, demand for counseling, psychiatric care, and mental wellness products is on the rise, driving significant expansion in India’s mental health market. For instance, in September 2024, World Suicide Prevention Day 2024 saw the start of a mental health program by Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC). The DMRC program seeks to support those who are struggling with mental health issues and increase public awareness of mental health issues.

Technological Advancements and Digital Access

Digital transformation has revolutionized how mental health services are delivered in India. Teleconsultations, mental wellness apps, and AI-based therapy platforms have enabled people to access care discreetly and affordably, especially in remote areas. According to the India mental health market forecast, these tools provide anonymity, flexibility, and convenience, factors crucial in a society still overcoming stigma. The rise of smartphones and internet penetration has made it easier for individuals to engage with professionals without visiting clinics. Additionally, digital tools offer multilingual support, ensuring accessibility across diverse populations. This technological evolution is a major force fueling market growth, enabling service providers to scale quickly and reach previously underserved communities across the country. The Government of India launched the Tele MANAS Mobile App to support mental health issues. As of November 2024, 53 Tele MANAS Cells were established across 36 States/UTs, handling over 15.95 lakh calls on the helpline number.

Urbanization, Stress, and Lifestyle Changes

Rapid urbanization and evolving lifestyle patterns have led to increased stress, anxiety, and isolation among India’s population, which is further creating a positive India mental health market outlook. Long working hours, competitive environments, nuclear family structures, and social media pressures are contributing to a rise in mental health issues, particularly among urban youth and working professionals. The COVID-19 pandemic further intensified these challenges, leaving lasting psychological effects. This socio-environmental shift has prompted individuals and employers to take mental well-being more seriously, boosting the demand for therapy, workplace mental health programs, and wellness services. As more people seek help for everyday mental challenges, the market for preventive and therapeutic mental health services continues to expand rapidly. The WHO estimated that India’s economic loss due to mental health conditions will reach USD 1.03 trillion between 2012 and 2030.

India Mental Health Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the India mental health market, along with forecasts at the country and regional levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on disorder, service, and age group.

Analysis by Disorder:

• Schizophrenia
• Alcohol Use Disorders
• Bipolar Disorder
• Depression and Anxiety
• Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
• Substance Abuse Disorders
• Eating Disorders
• Others

Depression and anxiety leads the market with 52.3% of market share in 2024 due to their high prevalence across various age and socioeconomic groups. Urbanization, academic and workplace stress, social isolation, and financial uncertainty contribute significantly to these conditions. Increased awareness, reduced stigma, and growing acceptance of therapy have encouraged more people to seek help. Digital platforms offering accessible and affordable mental health services have also made treatment easier to access. Both conditions often require long-term care, including counseling and medication, which sustains demand. As public and private initiatives expand mental health infrastructure, depression and anxiety continue to dominate the market landscape.

Analysis by Service:

• Emergency Mental Health Services
• Outpatient Counselling
• Home-based Treatment Services
• Inpatient Hospital Treatment Services
• Others

Inpatient hospital treatment services lead the market with 43.5% of market share in 2024. Inpatient hospital treatment services hold the largest share in the India mental health market due to the need for intensive, round-the-clock care for severe mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and acute depression. These services offer structured environments, professional supervision, and integrated care involving psychiatrists, psychologists, and support staff. Many patients require hospitalization for stabilization, medication management, and safety during crises. Additionally, growing investment in psychiatric departments within multispecialty hospitals and the availability of both public and private inpatient facilities drive this segment. The comprehensive nature of inpatient care makes it a critical component of mental health treatment in India.

Analysis by Age Group:

• Pediatric
• Adult
• Geriatric

Adult leads the market with 53.3% of market share in 2024. The adult population constitutes the largest consumer base for mental health services in India. Adults face a wide range of issues—stress, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and workplace burnout—driven by fast-paced lifestyles, financial pressures, and relationship challenges. The working-age group is more likely to seek help due to better awareness, access to insurance, and employer-supported wellness programs. Urbanization and digital platforms have made therapy and psychiatric care more accessible to this demographic. Additionally, adults are more likely to engage in both preventive and ongoing care. Their high service utilization and broad treatment spectrum secure their dominant share in India’s mental health market.

Regional Analysis:

• North India
• West and Central India
• South India
• East and Northeast India

South India, including Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Telangana, leads in mental health infrastructure and digital adoption. Bengaluru and Hyderabad, known for their IT and startup ecosystems, face high demand for therapy and stress-related services. The region benefits from a higher literacy rate and openness toward mental well-being. Availability of skilled professionals, strong telemedicine infrastructure, and corporate wellness programs support rapid growth. Academic stress, especially in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, is also a major driver. Public and private partnerships, along with mental health tech startups, are accelerating innovation. South India remains one of the most advanced regions in mental healthcare delivery.

Competitive Landscape:

The India mental health market features a competitive landscape driven by a mix of hospitals, specialized clinics, digital health platforms, and non-governmental organizations. Key players include Fortis Healthcare, Apollo Hospitals, and NIMHANS, offering integrated psychiatric and psychological services. Digital platforms like Practo, MindPeers, and YourDOST are gaining prominence through online therapy, telepsychiatry, and wellness tools. Startups like Wysa and InnerHour are leveraging AI to offer scalable mental health support. Corporate wellness providers and insurers are increasingly integrating mental health into employee benefits. Government-backed programs, such as Tele-MANAS, also shape the ecosystem. Competition is intensifying as demand grows, with players differentiating through affordability, accessibility, technology use, and specialized care, shaping a dynamic and evolving India mental health market landscape.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the India mental health market with detailed profiles of all major companies.

Latest News and Developments:

• April 2025: Aster DM Healthcare completed the acquisition of Quality Care India Limited (QCIL). This strategic move, approved by shareholders and regulatory bodies, positions the merged entity among India's top three hospital chains, further augmenting its healthcare services, including mental health services.
• February 2025: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), in collaboration with NIMHANS, launched a campus-based mental health support initiative in Karnataka. This project is part of ICMR's multistate National Health Research Priority program, aiming to develop scalable and sustainable models to address student mental health challenges.
• February 2025: Fortis Healthcare acquired Shrimann Super Specialty Hospital in Jalandhar for INR 462 crore, expanding its presence in Punjab. The acquisition, adding 228 beds with potential for future growth, strengthens Fortis’ healthcare network, further enhancing access to quality services, such as mental health care, in the region.
• January 2025: The Indian School of Business and Finance (ISBF) partnered with King’s College London to launch a BSc Psychology (Hons) program in India. This initiative aims to address the country's growing need for skilled mental health professionals by offering a globally benchmarked curriculum and cutting-edge resources. ISBF will also establish a psychology lab where students can conduct simulations and experiments, bridging theory with practice.
• November 2024: At the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2024, Infiheal unveiled Healo, an AI-driven mental health companion designed to provide 24/7 affordable and anonymous support. Developed by IIT Bombay alumni, Healo aims to bridge gaps in traditional therapy access due to stigma, cost, or availability. The platform also connects users to qualified professionals when needed.
• September 2024: Bengaluru-based startup Wundrsight raised USD 400,000 to develop VR-based mental health solutions. Focused on conditions like OCD, anxiety, and substance use disorders, it aims to provide accessible and effective care.

India Mental Health Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s industry report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the India mental health market from 2019-2033.
• The research report provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the India mental health market.
• Porter's five forces analysis assist stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the India mental health industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.