Mental Health in Nepal

It is estimated that over two million children and teenagers in Nepal are affected by mental health problems of some form. Various studies show that mental problems are the leading cause of suicide among women of reproductive age (15-49 years). Similarly, prevalence rates of mental illness in Nepal suggest that about 20 per cent of the general population suffers from mental illnesses.

Many people with serious mental issues struggle with the symptoms and disabilities that result from the illness and are also challenged by the stereotypes and prejudice that result from misconceptions about mental illness.

As a result of both, people with mental illness are devoid of the opportunities to live a full life with dignity. Young adults of Nepal in particular experience serious stressors, including high rates of poverty, unemployment, substance abuse, compounded by scarce supportive resources and very limited mental health care options.

Because this affects us all, Survivors is working to provide everyone with the knowledge and skills to protect their own mental health and to support their friends and family. Survivors wants to build people’s confidence to support those around them, and make anxiety, depression and suicide part of everyday conversations, while tackling stigma, prejudice and discrimination, breaking down the barriers that prevent people from speaking up and reaching out.