This Indian City Ranks Really Low On World Mental Health Index
It's quite surprising that Hyderabad, famous for its thriving IT industry, is facing a decline in mental health. The 'Mental State of the World Report 2024′ by Washington DC-based Sapien Labs places Hyderabad among the bottom-ranking metropolitan cities in India for mental well-being. The study highlights a concerning mental health crisis, particularly among the youth of Hyderabad.
Sapien Labs' report indicates that Hyderabad scored only 58.3 points on the Mental Health Quotient (MHQ) scale, considerably below the average score of 63.
Meanwhile, Delhi occupies the second-lowest position with 54.4 points. This report, based on responses from over 75,000 people aged 18 to 55+, paints a concerning picture.
The MHQ scale classifies mental health from 'distressed' to 'thriving', with Hyderabad's average falling between 'sustainable' and 'manageable'.
One of the report's key findings highlights that 32 percent of Hyderabad residents fall into the 'conflicting' category, characterised by poor emotional relationships, high stress, and low mental performance.
Sapien Labs director Shailendra Swaminathan notes that the most affected are youth and adults, whose numbers are particularly alarming. The study identifies several major contributors to the mental health crisis among the youth.
According to the report, the breakdown of social bonds and excessive smartphone usage are significant factors. Overuse of smartphones is associated with issues such as sadness, anxiety, and aggression at a young age.
Additionally, smartphone exposure disrupts sleep and increases sensitivity to harmful content, including cyberbullying and online predators. This habit also negatively impacts diet and overall health.
The report further states that pesticides and microplastics commonly found in food and water pose risks to brain development, particularly affecting children. The findings underscore the serious deterioration of mental health in Hyderabad and emphasise the urgent need to address its causes.
First Published:
April 22, 2025, 16:48 IST
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