Breaking the Taboo: 5 Shocking Myths About Mental Health in India Debunked by Experts

“Mental health… is not a destination, but a process. It’s about how you drive, not where you’re going.”

— Noam Shpancer, Ph.D., psychologist and professor

Introduction:

An article on stigma in the Indian Journal of Psychiatry discusses how stigma contributes to poor utilization of mental health services in India.

In India, we whisper about mental health behind closed doors, if at all. We learn to hide our sadness with a smile, mask our anxiety as "overthinking," and dismiss therapy as something “only for mad people.”

But the truth is, millions silently suffer—working professionals battling burnout, mothers struggling with postpartum depression, young students anxious before every exam, and elders grappling with isolation. The shame attached to emotional suffering is not just outdated—it’s dangerous.

It’s time to challenge these outdated beliefs. Because the cost of silence is too high.

In this article, we’re exposing five of the most damaging myths about mental health in India, backed by expert opinion, lived experience, and research. Whether you’re seeking support yourself or trying to help a loved one, understanding the truth could be your first step toward healing.

India’s Hidden Struggles – 5 Myths That Keep People from Seeking Help

Despite growing awareness, mental health remains heavily stigmatized in India. These myths often prevent people from accessing services like individual therapy, resulting in prolonged distress or even crises.

Let’s break down the five most common myths—and the truth behind them.

a. “Therapy is Only for the Mentally Ill”

This myth couldn’t be further from the truth.

1. Therapy isn’t reserved for psychiatric emergencies. It’s for anyone who wants to understand themselves better, improve relationships, manage stress, or heal emotional wounds.
2. Experts clarify that individual therapy supports personal growth, not just recovery.
3. Many people attend therapy to prevent mental health deterioration, not just fix it.

b. “Therapists Just Listen—They Don’t Actually Do Anything”

While listening is a part of it, therapy is a structured, evidence-based process.

1. Therapists use various modalities such as CBT, ACT, EMDR, and DBT, tailored to your needs.
2. Learning how therapy works for anxiety and depression reveals that it includes techniques like thought restructuring, exposure strategies, and emotional regulation skills.
3. Therapists provide psychoeducation—equipping you with the knowledge and tools to understand your brain and behaviour.

You’re not just venting in therapy. You’re learning how to rewire lifelong patterns.

c. “Going to Therapy Means You’re Weak”

Seeking help is a strength, not a weakness.

1. A 2021 article in The Lancet Psychiatry titled "Public mental health: required actions to address implementation" discusses the importance of resilience as the capacity to manage and adapt to adversity, often enhanced through structured mental health care.
2. Acknowledging vulnerability is one of the hardest things we do, and the benefits of therapy for mental health include better coping, deeper self-awareness, and more balanced decision-making.

Mental toughness is not about suppressing emotion. It’s about learning how to feel without being overwhelmed.

d. “Therapy is a Western Concept—It Doesn’t Fit Indian Culture”

Yes, therapy has global roots, but emotional healing is a universal need.

1. Indian therapists are integrating traditional practices like mindfulness, yoga, and community healing with modern therapy models.
2. Some different types of therapy for emotional healing now include art therapy, movement therapy, and culturally sensitive counselling.
3. Spiritual beliefs, family systems, and Indian values are not ignored—they're respected and included.

The goal isn’t to abandon culture, but to heal within it.

e. “Online Therapy Isn’t Effective or Trustworthy”

In India’s post-pandemic world, online therapy has become a lifeline for many.

But people still hesitate due to concerns over quality and confidentiality.

1. A 2022 research paper titled by Dhillon & Verma of the Indian Journal of Health and Wellbeing, online therapy shows comparable effectiveness to in-person therapy for issues like depression, anxiety, and trauma.
2. The pros and cons of online mental health therapy include flexibility, affordability, privacy, but also the need for strong internet and self-motivation.
3. Knowing how to choose the best online therapist—based on qualifications, reviews, and specializations—can make a huge difference.

Today, you can heal from your home, at your own pace, with the right guidance.

Action Steps – How to Begin Your Mental Health Journey

Mental wellness isn’t a mystery—it’s a series of small, conscious steps. Here’s how you can take your first ones.

a. Normalize the Conversation at Home

1. Start by being honest about how you feel. Even “I’m feeling low today” opens a door.
2. Share articles or videos that discuss mental health openly.
3. Avoid dismissive language like “snap out of it” or “everyone feels like this.”

b. Explore Therapy Without Pressure

1. Attend a free exploratory call—most therapists or platforms offer this with no commitment.
2. Journal your goals or struggles before you go. It helps guide the conversation.
3. You don’t need to pick the first therapist you meet. Try a few until you feel safe and understood.

c. Educate Yourself Through Reliable Resources

1. Follow credible therapists or mental health advocates on Instagram or YouTube.
2. Learn about different types of therapy for emotional healing—what works for one may not work for all.

The Inner Rewards of Challenging Mental Health Myths

Beyond treatment or growth, there’s something deeper at stake: your sense of self.

a. Reclaiming Worth Beyond Roles

Especially for caregivers, students, or professionals, mental health support reminds you that:

1. You are worthy of care, not just productivity.
2. Your emotions don’t make you “lesser,” they make you human.
3. You can rest. You can ask for help. You can receive.

b. Spiritual Healing Through Self-Acceptance

Healing is not just cognitive—it’s soulful.

1. When you release guilt, fear, and shame, you make space for lightness.
2. Many Indian therapists now include mindfulness, grounding rituals, and compassion-based practices in sessions.
3. You begin to trust your inner voice more than the noise of society.

c. Creating Safe Spaces for Others

As you do the work, you become safer for others too.

1. You learn to listen without judging.
2. You learn that you don’t need to “fix” others—just walk with them.
3. You become the kind of friend, parent, or partner who knows the power of presence.

Conclusion

India doesn’t need more silence around mental health. It needs brave hearts—people like you—who choose to unlearn stigma, embrace healing, and seek joy without shame.

The next time someone says “therapy is not for us,” you’ll know better. And you’ll be able to gently say:

“I thought that too. But it changed my life.”

Ready to take the first step? So, choose among the best mental health experts and take that first step.

FAQs: Breaking the Taboo Around Mental Health in India

1. Is therapy only for people with serious mental illnesses?

No. Therapy is for anyone seeking support—whether you're dealing with stress, relationship issues, work pressure, or simply want to understand yourself better. It’s not just about treating illness; it’s also about enhancing well-being and resilience.

2. What actually happens during a therapy session?

Therapists don’t just listen—they guide you through structured techniques based on evidence-backed approaches like CBT or mindfulness. Sessions may include goal setting, skill-building, reframing thoughts, or processing emotions in a safe space.

3. Is online therapy really effective in India?

Yes, numerous studies—including research from Indian journals—have shown that online therapy is effective for managing anxiety, depression, and trauma. With the right therapist, online therapy can be just as impactful as in-person care.

4. How do I know if a therapist is qualified and trustworthy?

Look for therapists with recognized degrees (e.g., M.Phil in Clinical Psychology, M.A. in Psychology) and registrations (like RCI or other licensed bodies). Check their experience, areas of expertise, and reviews if available. A good therapist will also be open to questions about their approach.

5. Isn’t talking to family or friends enough for emotional support?

While loved ones can offer comfort, they are not trained professionals. Therapists provide unbiased, confidential support using therapeutic tools that go beyond casual conversation and help you work through deeper patterns and challenges.

6. Will therapy conflict with my cultural or spiritual beliefs?

Not at all. Culturally sensitive therapists in India often integrate spiritual values, mindfulness, and family dynamics into sessions. Therapy is about working within your context—not against it.

7. How can I encourage someone to try therapy without offending them?

Start with empathy, not advice. Share your own experiences (if applicable), send helpful resources, or suggest a no-pressure exploratory call. Avoid using words like "crazy" or "fix"—and remind them that seeking help is a strength, not a weakness.

Sources & References

1. Indian Journal of Psychiatry. (2023). “Mental Health Stigma in Urban India: A Qualitative Survey.” –nmc.org.in/MCIRest/open/getDocument?path= %2FDocuments%2FPublic%2FPortal%2FLatestNews%2Fdocument+-+2024-08-14T161526.311.pdf&utm_source
2. The Lancet Psychiatry. (2021). “Resilience and Therapy Outcomes in Low-Resource Settings.” - Public mental health: required actions to address implementation failure in the context of COVID-19 - The Lancet Psychiatry
3. Asian Journal of Psychiatry. (2022). “Comparative Effectiveness of Online and Offline Mental Health Therapy in India.”