In Punjab, a number of young people are facing mental health issues, especially in the age group of 18 to 30.
The lack of awareness about its treatment and concerns over treatment costs are creating additional barriers in addressing mental health issues.
According to State Health Agency (SHA) data, the mental-health conditions include mental and behavioural disorders linked to psychoactive substance use, neurotic and stress-related disorders and behavioural syndromes associated with physiological and physical factors.
Quoting official sources, Akashvani Correspondent reports that in the last seven months, 709 persons between the age group of 18 to 45 years, who have come forward to avail professional help, have been detected with such symptoms of mental health.
Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Balbir Singh said that the state government is focusing on giving professional help to such persons and is also providing free treatment through the state-run Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana.