Remission rates of select mental illness and substance use disorders in India

Abstract

Background and Objective: There are very few literature evidence studying the remission rates among mental illness and substance use disorders (MISUD) in India. Knowledge of the remission and its characteristics can help to draw better policies for mental health care delivery in India. Material and Methods: Using the Global Burden of Diseases, 2016 approach and employing the DisMod-MR -2.1.6 mathematical modelling, prevalence, incidence and remission rates of 4 substance use disorders (alcohol, opioid, cocaine and cannabis), schizophrenia, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder and anxiety disorders were studied. Results: Within the mathematical model confines the prevalence, incidence characteristics of MISUDs based on age and gender are presented. The remission rate per person year ranged from 0.015 to 1.46 for different MISUD. Gender shows difference in the model for anxiety disorders, opioid and alcohol use disorder. The effect of age on the model are described in detail Conclusion: The outcome of the study indicates the remission rates of MISUDs are highly variable. Remission rates significantly varies between age and gender. Based on these inputs, customized and targeted MISUDs therapies may be designed for better remission. The study also underlines the need for further large scale research efforts required for studying and reporting natural history of MISUDs from India.