Is there such a thing as depression and schizophrenia in India or is it mostly a western problem?

Answer 1

Schizophrenia and depression are as prevalent in India as they are any where else in the world. They are diseases of the mind, they do not discriminate based or national origin or when one lives. It may not be pointed out as much as it is in Western cultures, there are many problems kept quiet, and only appear to "happen to everyone else".

Answer 2

No there is most definitely depression and schizophrenia in India however, people will not address it as readily as those in the Western world so it may not be recorded or seen as readily. As in other cultures where there is belief in possession Schizophrenia is often not seen as it is believed to be possession as oppose to the actual illness.The highest recorded incidences of depression are in Beirut. In studies of twins it has been found thet 69% of depression is biologically based and similar for schizophrenia.

Answer 3

I don't know about India specifically, but in other cultures generally;

Not enough research to be able to say definitely, because those things may be present but not recognized in non-urban parts of India. Generally, it is thought that depression and schziophrenia are *not* "western" problems, but that their identification and classification are done along Western lines.

http://www.stayfreemagazine.org/archives/21/lawrence_kirmayer.html

Answer 4

Mental illnesses are a worldwide problem. Anywhere you find people you will find some mental illness. It may not be talked about as much and in some societies it is considered a bad thing and not much help is available. It is definitely not just a western problem.

Answer 5

Oh Yes, both are prevalent in India perhaps to a greater extent than commonly acknowledged. However it is generally not taken as seriously as it is in the West due to the social stigma of mental conditions.

Answer 6

Depression and schizophrenia are nondiscriminatory illnesses. They can affect anyone anywhere. I'm sure that due to the financial differences, it is not diagnosed as often, but that doesn't mean it isn't there.I think there is a lack of stigmatization over there, though.

Answer 7

There is an article that explains the prevalance regarding Western Technology.

Hope that helps.