From 1992 to 2021, India experienced a 113.30% increase in anxiety disorder cases between 1992 and 2021, the largest among BRICS nations, according to PubMed. This rapidly escalating domestic mental health crisis presents a significant national challenge.
Yet, India is simultaneously leading a BRICS initiative to promote mental health and wellness, having proposed it as a new priority area for health cooperation. This occurs even as the nation experiences the most rapid rise in anxiety disorders among member states, according to Manorama Yearbook.
Therefore, India's 2026 BRICS chairmanship will likely prioritize mental health and healthy lifestyle initiatives. This strategy aims to secure international cooperation and resources to tackle its urgent domestic needs, potentially offering a blueprint for other developing nations.
India chaired the first BRICS Health Working Group (HWG) meeting for 2026 in New Delhi, where these proposals were discussed, as reported by English Punjabkesari. The BRICS Health Working Group already manages nine priority areas, including infectious diseases and digital health, according to The New Indian Express.
Understanding Global Anxiety Disorder Trends
The global number of anxiety disorders cases increased by 73.44% between 1992 and 2021, according to PubMed. This rise indicates a widespread public health challenge across various regions.
Age-standardized incidence rates of anxiety disorders rose by 21.17% globally between 1992 and 2021, also according to PubMed. The difference between total cases and age-standardized rates suggests population growth or demographic shifts contribute significantly to the overall increase in reported cases.
