Gujarat Records 15.43 Lakh Mental Health Cases In 2025-26; Depression Cases Cross 3 Lakh

Gujarat recorded 15.43 lakh mental health cases in government mental health hospitals in 2025-26, compared with 11.23 lakh in 2018-19. Depression cases crossed the three-lakh mark, reaching 3,06,477, while anxiety-related cases rose to 2,65,487, according to the data provided.

The figures show an increase in recorded cases across several categories, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, mood disorders and childhood-related conditions.

World Mental Health Day is observed on October 10 every year to raise awareness about mental health and encourage people to seek timely support. Mental health concerns often remain unaddressed because of social stigma and fear of judgement.

Depression Cases Cross 3 Lakh In Gujarat

Depression cases in government mental health hospitals rose from 2,14,546 in 2018-19 to 3,06,477 in 2025-26. During the same period, anxiety and mental tension cases increased from 2,04,361 to 2,65,487.

Cases of schizophrenia also increased, from 1,63,206 in 2018-19 to 2,16,182 in 2025-26. Mood-related disorders rose from 1,27,058 to 1,73,007, while cases categorised as mind-related conditions increased from 1,31,643 to 1,95,755.

Childhood-Related Disorders Rise By 63%

Mental health cases involving childhood-related disorders also increased significantly. The number rose from 56,298 in 2018-19 to 91,916 in 2025-26, an increase of around 63%.

The figures underline the importance of identifying emotional and behavioural difficulties in children at an early stage. Support from parents, schools and qualified mental health professionals can help children receive appropriate assessment and care.

Mental Health Concerns Among Senior Citizens

Mental health issues among older people are another area of concern. The supplied information indicates that cases among senior citizens have risen from around 50,000 to approximately 85,000 over six years.

Loneliness, retirement, physical weakness and reduced social interaction can affect the emotional well-being of older people. Persistent changes in mood, behaviour or sleep should not simply be dismissed as signs of ageing.

Family members and caregivers can play an important role by recognising these changes and encouraging senior citizens to seek medical advice when needed.

Mental Distress Often Remains Hidden

Dr Ajay Chawda of the Government Mental Hospital said mental distress can remain hidden even when a person appears cheerful on the outside.

He emphasised that people experiencing mental health difficulties should not hesitate to seek help. Fear of social judgement and concerns about what others might say can prevent individuals from discussing their struggles or seeking professional care.

Mental health conditions can affect people across age groups. Recognising warning signs, encouraging open conversations and seeking timely medical support are important steps towards addressing these concerns.

Gujarat Mental Health Cases: Category-Wise Figures

The data provided for government mental health hospitals shows the following figures for 2018-19, 2023-24, 2024-25, 2025-26 and the current reporting period of 2026-27.

The data shows that the total number of recorded cases increased from 11.23 lakh in 2018-19 to 15.43 lakh in 2025-26. Depression and anxiety accounted for a substantial share of the cases recorded during the latest full financial year.

The rising figures bring renewed attention to mental health awareness, early diagnosis and access to professional care across Gujarat.