India, Feb. 5 -- Mental illness is no longer confined to later stages of life. Nearly 60% of mental disorders are now diagnosed in people under 35, according to the experts at the Annual National Conference of the Indian Psychiatric Society (ANCIPS) 2026. They alarmed that adolescence and early adulthood have become the most vulnerable phases for mental health challenges. At the 77th edition of the conference, psychiatrists, clinicians, researchers and policymakers noted that most mental disorders manifest, with the median age of onset between 19 and 20 years. Excessive use of digital devices and growing dependence on the virtual world are likely to worsen mental health issues in the future. Dr Nimesh G Desai, Chairperson of the Organising Comittee of ANCIPS 2026 and former Director of the Institute of Human Behaviour & Allied Sciences (IHBAS), says, "One of the main reasons for rising cases in India is lack of awareness on timely treatment. If reported on time almost all the mental disorders can be treated successfully." He adds that disorders beginning in youth often turn lifelong if untreated, affecting not just individuals but families, workplaces and national productivity. Experts warn that early symptoms - irritability, social withdrawal, sleep or eating change, are often ignored. Dr Deepak Raheja notes, "Youngsters rarely seek help on their own, and families often mistake symptoms for stress . This delay allows conditions to worsen, sometimes becoming chronic." Untreated mental health issues can disrupt careers and relationships. Suicide remains a serious concern; according to WHO, it is the third leading cause of death globally among those aged 15-29....