Gender Divide in Approaches to Mental Health

In the ever-evolving landscape of mental health consultations, a notable gender divide is emerging in India. Recent data from insurance tech platform Plum and digital health platform Practo reveal that while more women are opting for teleconsultations, men still prefer in-person consultations when addressing their mental health needs. This striking disparity underscores the shifting dynamics in mental health care. Rahul Chandhok, Head Consultant in Mental Health & Behavioral Science at Artemis Hospital, Gurugram, weighs in on this trend, shedding light on the factors influencing the choices individuals make regarding their mental health consultations.

2023 has seen a significant rise in mental health consultations, reflecting the increasing awareness of the importance of mental well-being. Plum reports a four-fold increase in telehealth bookings, particularly among young adults aged 21 to 40, who constitute a substantial 73% of these appointments. Practo, on the other hand, has noticed a surge in in-person consultations, with a year-on-year increase of 29% for FY23. This surge highlights the growing recognition of mental health's significance in overall well-being.

The gender divide is clear: women are increasingly choosing teleconsultations for their mental health needs, with 55% of teleconsultations being sought by females, according to Plum's data. In contrast, men exhibit a preference for traditional in-person consultations, constituting 67% of these appointments as highlighted by Practo. This pattern demonstrates the diverse approaches individuals take in addressing their mental health concerns.

A closer look at the mental health landscape reveals regional variations in consultation preferences. In 2023, Delhi emerged as a frontrunner, contributing the largest share of consultations at 35%. Bangalore followed at 19%, Mumbai at 11%, Hyderabad at 10%, Chennai at 8%, and Pune at 8%. This data illustrates the varying demands for mental health services across different Indian cities.

India grapples with a significant mental health burden, recording 2,443 disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) per 100,000 population, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). This burden has surged since the onset of the pandemic, with The Indian Psychiatry Society reporting a 20% increase in mental illness cases. The need for accessible and stigma-free mental health care has never been more crucial.

Dr. Rahul Chandhok, Head Consultant in Mental Health & Behavioral Science at Artemis Hospital, Gurugram, provides valuable insights into the gender divide in mental health consultations. He notes that one possible explanation for the difference in consultation frequency between females and males is the comfort level with teleconsultations. Many independent women are increasingly at ease managing their mental health appointments independently. Dr. Chandhok also highlights the pre-existing trend of more males seeking in-person consultations compared to females. The advent of teleconsultation availability in India, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic, has played a pivotal role in breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health, offering a more accessible and convenient avenue for many individuals.

The evolving preferences for teleconsultations and in-person appointments underscore the changing landscape of mental health care in India. While women find comfort in the accessibility and privacy of teleconsultations, men continue to value the traditional face-to-face interactions with healthcare professionals. This shift in dynamics emphasizes the importance of offering diverse avenues for mental health care, ensuring that individuals can choose the approach that aligns best with their needs and preferences. 

As the data reveals, mental health care is not one-size-fits-all. The gender-based disparity in consultation preferences highlights the need for flexible and comprehensive approaches to mental well-being. Dr. Rahul Chandhok's insights emphasize the positive impact of teleconsultations in reducing the stigma surrounding mental health, making it a critical tool in addressing the evolving needs of individuals seeking mental health support. This evolving landscape underscores the importance of meeting these diverse needs, offering individuals the freedom to choose the mental health approach that suits them best.

Discover more about mental health and well-being. Connect with our expert team at Artemis Hospitals' Mental Health and Behavioral Science Department today to begin your journey to a healthier mind.