India has witnessed a remarkable 64% jump in the sales of antidepressants and mood elevators between 2020 and November 2024, with a market value spiraling from ₹1,540 crore to ₹2,536 crore. Key players include Escitalopram and Clonazepam, which have recorded a 59.35% sales increase. Sertraline follows close behind with a 48.2% rise, reflecting the overall growth in mental health awareness and prescription practices.
“One in every seven Indians is mentally ill, compared to one in eight globally. The increase is not surprising,” said Dr Harish Shetty, a psychiatrist in Mumbai.
According to experts, the surge is driven by widespread acceptance of mental health treatment, growing teleconsultation services post-pandemic, and the active role of general physicians in prescribing moderate dosages.
Government initiatives, such as Tele Manas and iCall, further bolster the support system by offering professional counseling and helplines, reducing the stigma around seeking help.
Launched in 2012, iCall was one of the first services to offer long-term counselling beyond emergency assistance. Dr Aparna Joshi, iCall's Programme Director, said, "All of our counsellors are professionals. We receive 2,000 to 3,000 calls monthly, with 50% being repeat callers."
