The Andhra Pradesh government is gearing up to address the growing shortage of clinical psychologists across the state, announced Health, Medical Education and Family Welfare Minister Satya Kumar Yadav on Friday.
Speaking at a World Mental Health Day awareness programme organised by Indlas Hospitals in Vijayawada, the Minister emphasized that the government’s focus is on strengthening mental health services and building specialized manpower to meet increasing public demand.
“The services of clinical psychologists are essential to society. The government is committed to improving mental health infrastructure and training,” said Mr. Yadav.
🧠 Launch of Clinical Psychology Courses
As part of the initiative, the government is introducing clinical psychology courses at Indlas Hospitals to produce more trained professionals in the field. Mr. Yadav said that the move will help bridge the gap in mental health services, particularly in district hospitals and rural areas where qualified psychologists are scarce.
Highlighting the urgency, the Minister noted that mental health challenges among the youth are on the rise due to changing lifestyles, academic pressure, and work-related stress.
“Rising suicide rates deeply affect families and society. Mental health concerns have now become one of the top ten health priorities in Andhra Pradesh,” he added.
🏛️ State Mental Health Advisory Board to Be Formed
In a major policy move, the Minister announced that the state will soon establish a Mental Health Advisory Board to formulate strategies and oversee mental health programs.
Renowned psychiatrist Dr. Indla Ramasubba Reddy will chair the board, which will serve as a key consultative body for the state government on issues such as psychological services, awareness campaigns, and training programs.
“The board will ensure coordination between public hospitals, private practitioners, and educational institutions to build a strong ecosystem for mental wellness,” said Mr. Yadav.
🩺 Officials Stress on Holistic Health
NTR District Collector G. Lakshmisha, addressing the gathering, emphasized the equal importance of physical and mental well-being.
“Wealth matters little if an individual is not mentally healthy. True health includes a sound mind,” he remarked.
He praised the government’s proactive approach to integrating mental health into public healthcare priorities.
🚶 Mental Health Walk Flagged Off
Earlier in the day, Minister Satya Kumar Yadav flagged off a Mental Health Walk rally to raise awareness among the public about the importance of mental wellness.
The event was attended by Dr. P. Chandra Sekhar, Vice-Chancellor of Dr. NTR University of Health Sciences, V. Radhika Reddy, Registrar, and District Medical and Health Officer Dr. M. Suhasini, along with several healthcare professionals and students.
🩹 Why This Matters
Mental health disorders have seen a steady increase in Andhra Pradesh, especially among students and working professionals. Experts say the state’s initiative to train psychologists and form a dedicated advisory board could significantly strengthen mental healthcare delivery, awareness, and early intervention.
