Bridging health cover, mental healthcare in India
Mental health is finally getting the attention it has long deserved. The post-pandemic world has not only shifted how people think about well-being, but sparked a deeper sense of urgency around mental health, and how to plan for it.
Globally, mental health conditions affect about one in five adults, with the World Health Organization estimating an annual productivity loss of over $1 trillion due to untreated mental health issues. In India, the conversation is gaining momentum and it's being reflected in both policy and consumer behaviour.
Until a few years ago, health insurance was largely seen as a safeguard against physical illness or hospitalisation. That has changed. Following the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017 and IRDAI directive, mental health is now covered at par with physical illnesses across health insurance plans in India. This is not just a regulatory milestone — it signals a much-needed shift in how we define health.
Changing landscape
More importantly, this coverage is becoming more holistic. Today, most retail health insurance plans offer outpatient (OPD) benefits, either built-in or as optional add-ons. These allow for therapy, counselling, and psychiatric consultations — services central to mental healthcare but rarely require hospitalisation. Data tells us that people are using them.
Our data shows over the past 2-3 years, mental health–related claims — including for therapy, stress counselling and anxiety medication — have risen by 30–50%. It reflects not just policy evolution but fundamental behavioural shift. More people are seeking professional help and using insurance to pay for it.
Younger Indians lead
Interestingly, the demand is being led by younger Indians. Those between 25-35 years are driving the highest search interest, policy uptake and mental health claims. This group, juggling career pressures, financial uncertainties and the demands of an always-on digital lifestyle, is showing greater openness to emotional support, particularly through app-based therapy and online mental health platforms.
A closer look at the claims data shows anxiety disorders account for about 30–35% of mental health claims, followed by depression (25–30%), workplace stress and insomnia. Most of these are early to moderate cases, which signals another crucial trend: a growing comfort with seeking care before reaching crisis point.
This is how real change begins — with early intervention.
For women
Women are significantly more likely to opt for policies that include mental health benefits — especially those aligned with life-stage transitions such as pregnancy, menopause or caregiving responsibilities. Emotional well-being during these phases is often under-acknowledged but deeply impactful. The rise in claims from women reflects broader cultural shift toward prioritising self-care often for the first time.
Geographically, mental health insurance adoption is still concentrated in Tier 1 cities, accounting for more than 50% of the total uptake. These metros typically have better access to therapy networks, more progressive workplace policies and higher levels of digital literacy. That said, growing interest from Tier 2 cities points to a promising national trend — one where awareness is no longer limited to urban pockets. Workplaces, too, are undergoing a transformation. Whether through wellness programmes, access to therapists, or stress management workshops, mental health is beginning to find a place in the benefits conversation.
No longer afterthought
The best part of this conversation is mental health is no longer an afterthought. People are researching, asking and making insurance decisions with it in mind. But there's still a long way to go. Coverage is now widespread, but utilisation and awareness need to catch up. Many still don't know their plans include OPD therapy or cashless mental health services are an option.
This is where the focus must lie — in building a system that is not only inclusive on paper but accessible in practice. The foundation is in place: regulation, product innovation and early adoption. What's needed next is education, empathy and a continued effort to normalise mental health as part of everyday healthcare planning. The message is simple: taking care of your mind is just as important as taking care of your body.
And today, with the right insurance plan, you can do both, affordably and confidently.
(The writer is head, health insurance, Policybazaar)
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
News18
4 hours ago
- News18
6 Easy Desk Yoga Poses for Heart Health And Longevity
Last Updated: As more individuals and workplaces begin to embrace wellness, integrating Yogic micro-practices into daily routines offers a sustainable way to promote long-term heart health In today's fast-paced world, many of us are tethered to our desks for long hours—sometimes eight to ten hours a day. While our productivity might soar, our physical and emotional health often suffers silently. Research has shown that prolonged sitting is now considered as detrimental as smoking. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), physical inactivity is the fourth leading risk factor for global mortality. Studies have found that people who sit for extended periods have a 24% higher risk of early death. In India, the average daily screen time for working professionals has increased drastically post-pandemic, especially in tech hubs like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Gurugram. With the rise of work-from-home and hybrid work models, many professionals now report over 9–10 hours of sitting time daily—contributing to poor posture, lower back pain, fatigue, and elevated stress levels. Dr. Yogrishi Vishvketu, Global Yoga Educator, Author & Founder, Akhanda Yoga Institute emphasizes that while we may not always be able to change the demands of modern life, we can change how we meet them. His teachings encourage the integration of short yet potent desk-based Yoga practices to break the cycle of stress, stagnation, and burnout. 'Micro-practices repeated with awareness have the benefit of regular resets for the nervous system and breath—programming new habits that support the brain and body! Even two or three minutes of conscious breathing or spinal movement can shift the energetic blueprint of your entire day," shares Dr. Yogrishi. Here are six effective Yogic practices you can do right at your desk to rejuvenate the body and mind, reduce stress, and support heart and brain health: 1. Seated Cat-Cow Interlace your fingers behind your head or rest them on your knees. As you inhale, arch the spine and lift the chest; as you exhale, round the back and draw the belly in. Repeat for 1–2 minutes. Dr. Yogrishi adds, 'If you're able to use some floor area beyond your chair, dynamic cat-cow with active breathing for a few minutes is wonderful for opening the spine." 2. Seated Ardha Chandrasana (Side Stretch) Raise one arm overhead and gently bend sideways, keeping the opposite hand grounded on the chair or thigh. This helps release tension in the side body, ribcage, and lungs—often constricted during long desk sessions. 3. Neck and Shoulder Rolls Gently roll the shoulders backward and forward in slow circles. Follow this with neck half-moons—chin to chest and side-to-side movements—synchronized with the breath or paired with Bhramari Pranayama to relax tension stored in the upper back, jaw, and neck. 4. Alternate Nostril Breathing (Nadi Shodhana) Balance your nervous system and bring clarity with this calming Pranayama technique. Use your right thumb and ring finger to alternate breath between nostrils, inhaling and exhaling through one side at a time. Even 2–3 minutes can reduce anxiety and support heart rate regulation. 5. Seated Twist with Breath Awareness Sit tall with both feet flat on the floor. On an inhale, lengthen your spine. On the exhale, twist gently to one side, using the chair backrest or arm for support. Repeat on the other side. Twists aid digestion, reduce fatigue, and stimulate the spinal nerves. 6. Bhramari (Humming Bee Breath) A deeply calming breathing technique, Bhramari involves gently closing the eyes, placing the fingers lightly on the face or ears, and humming on each exhalation. It soothes the nervous system, lowers blood pressure, and improves focus. Dr. Yogrishi Vishvketu has pioneered the use of Bhramari in desk-friendly and restorative Yoga styles, showing how this ancient technique can be adapted to modern office settings to support emotional regulation and long-term well-being. These simple desk Yoga practices can be done in your work clothes, with no mat required. The key is consistency and intention. Dr. Yogrishi reminds us that our breath is always available and can be used as a powerful tool to transform how we feel, think, and act even in the middle of a busy workday. As more individuals and workplaces begin to embrace wellness, integrating Yogic micro-practices into daily routines offers a sustainable way to boost focus, reduce emotional reactivity, and promote long-term heart health and resilience. The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: June 09, 2025, 08:07 IST News lifestyle » health-and-fitness 6 Easy Desk Yoga Poses for Heart Health And Longevity
The Hindu
6 hours ago
- The Hindu
Bridging health cover, mental healthcare in India
Mental health is finally getting the attention it has long deserved. The post-pandemic world has not only shifted how people think about well-being, but sparked a deeper sense of urgency around mental health, and how to plan for it. Globally, mental health conditions affect about one in five adults, with the World Health Organization estimating an annual productivity loss of over $1 trillion due to untreated mental health issues. In India, the conversation is gaining momentum and it's being reflected in both policy and consumer behaviour. Until a few years ago, health insurance was largely seen as a safeguard against physical illness or hospitalisation. That has changed. Following the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017 and IRDAI directive, mental health is now covered at par with physical illnesses across health insurance plans in India. This is not just a regulatory milestone — it signals a much-needed shift in how we define health. Changing landscape More importantly, this coverage is becoming more holistic. Today, most retail health insurance plans offer outpatient (OPD) benefits, either built-in or as optional add-ons. These allow for therapy, counselling, and psychiatric consultations — services central to mental healthcare but rarely require hospitalisation. Data tells us that people are using them. Our data shows over the past 2-3 years, mental health–related claims — including for therapy, stress counselling and anxiety medication — have risen by 30–50%. It reflects not just policy evolution but fundamental behavioural shift. More people are seeking professional help and using insurance to pay for it. Younger Indians lead Interestingly, the demand is being led by younger Indians. Those between 25-35 years are driving the highest search interest, policy uptake and mental health claims. This group, juggling career pressures, financial uncertainties and the demands of an always-on digital lifestyle, is showing greater openness to emotional support, particularly through app-based therapy and online mental health platforms. A closer look at the claims data shows anxiety disorders account for about 30–35% of mental health claims, followed by depression (25–30%), workplace stress and insomnia. Most of these are early to moderate cases, which signals another crucial trend: a growing comfort with seeking care before reaching crisis point. This is how real change begins — with early intervention. For women Women are significantly more likely to opt for policies that include mental health benefits — especially those aligned with life-stage transitions such as pregnancy, menopause or caregiving responsibilities. Emotional well-being during these phases is often under-acknowledged but deeply impactful. The rise in claims from women reflects broader cultural shift toward prioritising self-care often for the first time. Geographically, mental health insurance adoption is still concentrated in Tier 1 cities, accounting for more than 50% of the total uptake. These metros typically have better access to therapy networks, more progressive workplace policies and higher levels of digital literacy. That said, growing interest from Tier 2 cities points to a promising national trend — one where awareness is no longer limited to urban pockets. Workplaces, too, are undergoing a transformation. Whether through wellness programmes, access to therapists, or stress management workshops, mental health is beginning to find a place in the benefits conversation. No longer afterthought The best part of this conversation is mental health is no longer an afterthought. People are researching, asking and making insurance decisions with it in mind. But there's still a long way to go. Coverage is now widespread, but utilisation and awareness need to catch up. Many still don't know their plans include OPD therapy or cashless mental health services are an option. This is where the focus must lie — in building a system that is not only inclusive on paper but accessible in practice. The foundation is in place: regulation, product innovation and early adoption. What's needed next is education, empathy and a continued effort to normalise mental health as part of everyday healthcare planning. The message is simple: taking care of your mind is just as important as taking care of your body. And today, with the right insurance plan, you can do both, affordably and confidently. (The writer is head, health insurance, Policybazaar)
News18
16 hours ago
- News18
Debunking Myths About Smartphones and Brain Tumors
Last Updated: While concerns persist, experts affirm that mobile phones emit non-ionizing radiation at safe levels, with no conclusive evidence linking them to serious health risks like cancer. Many people recognize the personal benefits of mobile services, though the public may also express concerns about possible risks from the radio signals used by mobile devices. Research across several countries indicates that a significant percentage of the population has a limited understanding of how mobile phones operate and how levels of radio signals are regulated and controlled. Some individuals may have encountered claims suggesting potential risks from long-term mobile phone use or that certain people are more sensitive to radio signals. Mobile phone users may attribute certain symptoms to their phone usage. Parents, while acknowledging the personal safety benefits mobile phones offer their children, may simultaneously worry about possible health risks. Dr. Rvaikanth Vuppu, Consultant – Neuro and Spine Surgeon, Manipal Hospital, Vijayawada, shares all you need to know: A mobile phone is a low-power radio transmitter that, under good network coverage, operates at levels similar to those of a cordless home phone. Mobile phones are tested for compliance at maximum power, and international exposure guidelines are designed to be protective of all individuals. If users remain concerned, they can reduce their exposure by using a hands-free kit or limiting the duration of calls. Cancer is another health concern often raised in the context of 5G deployment, both by the public and researchers. Numerous studies have examined the effects of radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic fields (EMF) on humans, with mixed results. In 2011, the World Health Organization (WHO)/International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified RF electromagnetic fields as possibly carcinogenic to humans, based on an observed increased risk for glioma — a malignant form of brain cancer — linked to wireless phone use. For example, Carlberg and Hardell (2017) concluded that RF radiation should be considered a human carcinogen due to its potential to cause glioma. In contrast, Vila et al. (2018) found no clear association between RF or intermediate frequency (IF) EMF exposure and glioma or meningioma. These contradictory findings underscore the need for further research to assess whether 5G could contribute to cancer development. Concerns about 5G and DNA damage stem from misunderstandings about radiation. For many people, the term 'radiation" evokes alarming associations with nuclear disasters or cancer. However, only higher-frequency radiation, such as ultraviolet (UV), X-rays, and gamma rays, is ionizing — meaning it can break molecular bonds and damage DNA. The radio waves used in 5G technology are non-ionizing and lack the energy to cause such damage. The non-ionizing nature of 5G means it cannot physically cause cancer in the same way ionizing radiation might. This distinction is critical: while 5G uses radiofrequency radiation, it operates at power levels far below those capable of harming biological tissue or altering DNA. Regarding the IARC classification: On May 31, 2011, radiofrequency electromagnetic fields were classified as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B), based on limited evidence of increased risk for glioma and acoustic schwannoma, both associated with long-term wireless phone use. However, for other types of cancer and environmental or occupational exposures, the evidence was deemed inadequate. The IARC summary notes indications of increased glioma risk among individuals in the highest 10% of cumulative phone use. However, researchers did not observe a consistent trend of increasing risk with greater duration of use. The conclusions were tempered by potential biases and errors, which limit the strength of the findings and preclude a definitive causal interpretation. In response, many health authorities have emphasized the need for further research while reaffirming that individuals can take practical steps to reduce mobile phone exposure. Importantly, the WHO continues to support the adoption of international RF-EMF exposure limits as a precautionary measure. First Published:
