Nawazuddin Siddiqui calls depression an urban issue; here's why he's wrong

Actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui is receiving major backlash on social media for his statement on depression. In an interview, the Raman Raghav actor said that depression is an urban issue and rural India doesn't suffer from mental illnesses.

The actor told a news website that even in urban sectors of the country pavement dwellers don't struggle with depression either.

But facts tell us a different story.

Sample this the National Mental Health Survey 2016 in India had revealed that nearly 15% adults need active intervention for one or more mental health issues and one in 20 Indians suffers from depression.

The survey also noted that while depression cases were higher in Urban sectors in rural India at least 5 per cent of population suffered from mental health issues.

The World Health Organisation requires at least 1 psychiatrist for every 100,000 persons, this creteria has been fulfilled only by Kerala govt in India.

The WHO notes that the prevalence of mental issues – ranging from depression to epileptic disorders – seems to be higher in urban areas, because there are better reporting standards and a lower threshold for active interventions in cities.　

A nationwide survey by the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences or NIMHANS states that about 150 million Indians suffer from some kind of mental health disorder but only 30 million or lesser address it and seek help.

Also Watch: Your favourite French fries might cause anxiety and depression: study