As you and I have heard a million times, our thoughts influence our actions. Whatever we do, however we do things, it’s all a reflection of our ‘mentality’. Now, as cliche as it might seem, mentality plays quite a big deal of a role in our lives. The same goes for how people react to seeing a psychologist. I’m sure any Indian can relate to this when I say, psychology is something that is given little value in India. About 150 million people in India need therapy for their mental health disorders, yet, less than 30 million people seek help.The question that naturally arises is — why? India has been known as an ancient land recognized for its enormous gravity towards maintaining good mental health through yoga, meditation, and classes with gurus. So, why has the term ‘Psychology’ become an expression of disgrace?

It all narrows down to several reasons.

1.The society’s belief that psychology can be practiced by anyone:

Believe it or not, this notion is utterly normal in India, and one of the main reasons people do not think of mental health as something that needs attention. People think that maintaining the health of the mind, comforting it and providing it support is as facile as liking a post which can be done by anyone. Oftentimes, we are expected to share our concerns with family members and friends. But you know what? That’s close to impossible! This situation is what calls for a Psychologist. They are people who specialize in dealing with people. They are trained to listen to one's thoughts without being judgmental. However, our dear Indians don’t reckon these as facts.

2.Belief that medications can do magic

It is often noticed that when people are stressed they tend to incline towards medications which gradually turn into ‘drugs’. Since people don’t acknowledge the existence of psychologists, they veer towards appointments with doctors, who proudly showcase their ability to ‘prescribe medicines’. This has continued for so long that people have developed a strong credence to pharmaceuticals.

3.Low wages

The government of India themselves do not give much significance to this domain. Clinical psychology only came of age after the HMO ( Health maintenance organisation) Act of 1973. Thus, psychologists receive relatively fewer job opportunities and wages as compared to doctors.

4.Doctors are placed above psychologists

It is a common misconception that doctors are more capable just because of the fact that they’ve studied ‘Medicine’. However, this notion couldn’t get more wrong. Therapists are capable of mentally healing a patient way more effectively than a doctor. Though, people incline towards demeaning this prospect due to the unfavored thought of ‘treatment without medications’. And thus, people value doctors more than psychologists just because of the way they are portrayed in the society.

5. Health care has always been more medical than psychological

In a country like India, where mental health is not given importance, people gravitate towards what they are aware of and are more familiar with. The concept of psychology is relatively new to the country and thus people tend to distance themselves from the queer conception. This is also one of the biggest reasons why Psychology is underrated in India.

6.Indians resolute to cultural and religious practices to ward of evil failing to acknowledge mental disorders

You must have come across numerous instances wherein people confuse between mental disorders and ‘being possessed’. In a nation where mental health is already looked down upon, this naivety only adds fuel to the flame.

7. The ones who do end up going to therapist demands them to ‘fix them’

As unrealistic as it may seem, there exist individuals who deem therapists as professional witches and wizards. In a nutshell, they expect results without effort. Mental health is a matter that requires consistent endeavour, although, there are people who ignore that fact and assume that therapists are capable of ‘fixing it’ for them which is a complete absurd idea. In the wake of realizing that their speculation had been incorrect, they lose faith in the domain.
Putting aside all the pessimism, I think it's right to address the fact that change is evolving. Many are coming to trust and appreciate the realm of Psychology. A lot more individuals are acknowledging the sheer importance of mental health and are willing to spread awareness of the same. Hope is not lost. A day will come when Therapy and Psychology are given utmost prestige, and psychiatrists and psychologists will be respected and trusted.