30,000 in Karnali on mental health meds; govt expands programmes
Summary
Around 30,000 people in Karnali Province are currently receiving medication for mental health problems, and the provincial government is expanding awareness, early identification and treatment programmes across all 10 districts. The 2021 census found mental health issues among 185,725 people in the province, with suicide cases also reported at concerning levels.
Key Points
- Around 30,000 people in Karnali Province are currently on medication for mental health problems.
- The 2021 national census found 185,725 people in Karnali, about 11% of the population, had mental health problems.
- Karnali was the first province to adopt a Mental Health and Psychosocial Strategy and Action Plan 2079–2087.
- Officials say poverty, unemployment, traditional beliefs, foreign employment, urbanisation and social media misuse are worsening mental health issues.
