Mental Health Matters: Why More Indians Are Seeking Therapy in 2025

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  By Gujju Ticks

  19 May, 2025

In India, discussions about mental health have changed dramatically over the past ten years. Mental health was once a taboo subject that was frequently connected to stigma, fear, or misinterpretation, but it is now a topic of growing public interest and acceptance. More Indians than ever before are turning to offline and online therapy in 2025. Technology, social media, evolving lifestyles, and heightened awareness have all contributed to this cultural shift, which ushers in a new era in India's approach to mental and emotional health.

The Changing Landscape of Mental Health in India

Traditionally, there have been few, if any, conversations about mental health in Indian homes. Seeking assistance was viewed as a sign of weakness, and therapy was frequently saved for serious mental illnesses. But the years following COVID raised awareness of mental health issues. It became evident from the strain of loneliness, job loss, online learning, and health concerns that mental health is equally as important as physical health.

By 2025, the number of people seeking therapy has increased in tier-2 cities like Surat, Rajkot, and Vadodara as well as in urban areas like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore. Over 40% of young adults in metropolitan areas have either seen a therapist or are considering doing so, according to the Indian Journal of Psychiatry.

What’s Driving This Change?

1. Increased Awareness Through Education and Media

The internet has made it possible for psychologists, therapists, and influencers to discuss issues like anxiety, depression, burnout, and emotional intelligence on social media sites like Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn. Additionally, basic mental health education is being introduced in schools and colleges, encouraging young people to recognise their emotions and seek help at an early age.

2. The Rise of Online Counseling Platforms

Therapy is now more accessible thanks to apps like BetterHelp India, MindPeers, Wysa, and YourDOST. You can now schedule a licensed therapist online, frequently for a fraction of the price of in-person sessions, regardless of whether you're in Ahmedabad or a smaller town in Kutch.

Social and geographic boundaries have been broken by the convenience of digital technology. Since therapy is now offered in regional languages like Bengali, Tamil, Gujarati, and Hindi, it is no longer just for the wealthy or urban population.

3. Workplace Mental Health Initiatives

Indian corporations are paying attention to mental health. Mandatory mental wellness check-ins, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), and partnerships with counselling services are all part of HR policies for 2025. As part of their employee wellness programs, companies such as TCS, Infosys, and Reliance have even implemented mindfulness and therapy packages.

This provides support and validation to the growing middle class in India, particularly millennials and Gen Z professionals.

4. Affordability and Insurance Coverage

In the past, therapy was thought to be costly in India, with fees ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 per session. However, the average cost has decreased due to increased availability of qualified therapists and competitive pricing on online platforms.

Furthermore, outpatient counselling is now covered by some Indian health insurance plans, which was practically unheard of prior to 2020. One of the main causes of the increase is the accessibility of therapy.

5. Reduction in Social Stigma

The decrease in stigma is arguably the most encouraging development. Therapy has become more commonplace as a result of celebrities like Virat Kohli and Deepika Padukone talking candidly about their mental health issues. Youth-led conversations and community initiatives are gradually altering viewpoints, particularly in Gujarati communities where tradition frequently prevails.

What Types of Therapy Are Indians Seeking in 2025?

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):

well-liked by people who struggle with mild to moderate depression, stress, and anxiety.

2. Talk Therapy (Counseling):

Perfect for everyday emotional difficulties, career confusion, and relationship problems.

3. Couples Therapy & Marriage Counseling:

a new trend in urban India, particularly among young couples who are having trouble getting along.

4. Child & Adolescent Therapy:

growing demand from parents and schools for help with bullying, academic stress, and screen addiction.

5. Mindfulness & Holistic Therapy:

Modern therapy is increasingly incorporating breathing techniques, yoga, and meditation, particularly in places like Pune and Rishikesh.

Is Therapy Only for the Privileged in India?

No longer. Government agencies, startups, and NGOs are collaborating to make therapy accessible to all. Support is available to people from all socioeconomic backgrounds through student helplines, telecounseling services, and community mental health programs in rural Gujarat.

Thanks to awareness campaigns and mobile penetration, rural India is rapidly catching up to elite urban centres, which still dominate the therapy landscape.

Cultural Sensitivity in Indian Therapy

The growth of therapists with cultural training is one factor contributing to therapy's increased efficacy in India. Family dynamics, religious influences, social pressures, and emotional dynamics specific to Indian society are all understood by an Indian therapist. Therapy becomes less clinical and more relatable as a result.

For example, Gujarati families frequently deal with stress from business, migration concerns, or intergenerational disputes. More pertinent coping mechanisms are offered by a therapist who is knowledgeable about these difficulties.

Challenges That Still Remain

• Shortage of Qualified Therapists:

In comparison to Western nations, India continues to have a low therapist-to-patient ratio.

• Gender Bias:

Men frequently experience social pressure to "stay strong," but women are more likely to seek therapy.

• Lack of Regulation:

Inconsistent experiences may result from the therapy industry's lack of consistent regulations.

How to Find the Right Therapist in India (2025 Guide)

• Use verified platforms:

Select authorised websites such as MindTribe, InnerHour, or regional psychological associations.

• Check credentials:

Make sure your therapist is RCI-registered or has an MPhil or MA in clinical psychology.

• Seek personal comfort:

Select a therapist with whom you feel comfortable, even if it takes some attempts. Therapy is a personal journey.

• Language matters:

To facilitate communication, pick a therapist who speaks your preferred language, such as English, Tamil, Hindi, or Gujarati.

Final Thoughts: Therapy is Not a Luxury, It’s a Necessity

The sharp rise in therapy use in India in 2025 is a revolution rather than merely a fad. Therapy is becoming ingrained in Indian culture through workplace initiatives, school programs, mental health apps, and culturally sensitive professionals.

It is no longer appropriate to keep mental health a secret. This discussion is taking place in corporate boardrooms, WhatsApp groups, and living rooms.

Everyone can benefit from therapy, whether they are a homemaker in Surat, a software engineer in Bangalore, or a college student in Vadodara.

What's the best part? Asking for assistance is now viewed as a sign of strength rather than weakness.